California Cosmetology Written ExamSkin CareMedium
Which massage movement is a light, gliding, stroking motion typically used to begin and end a facial massage?
- ATapotement
- BEffleurage
- CPetrissage
- DFriction
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Effleurage
Effleurage is a gentle, gliding stroking movement applied with light to moderate pressure, commonly used to open and close a massage sequence to relax the client and spread product.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Tapotement is a stimulating tapping/percussion movement, the opposite of calming effleurage.
- C. Petrissage involves kneading and lifting the tissue, not gliding.
- D. Friction is a deep, rubbing movement that generates heat.
Effleurage
A light, gliding stroking massage movement used to begin and end a massage sequence, promoting relaxation.
- Uses light to moderate pressure
- Applied in smooth, continuous strokes
- Used to open and close massage routines
Memory trick: 'Effleurage flows like a gentle wave gliding by'