Texas Cosmetology Operator Written ExamAnatomy and PhysiologyHard
A client is receiving a facial massage aimed at reducing tension in the forehead. Which muscle is primarily responsible for drawing the eyebrows down and wrinkling the forehead vertically, often targeted in such massages?
- AProcerus
- BCorrugator supercilii
- COrbicularis oculi
- DFrontalis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Corrugator supercilii
The corrugator supercilii muscle is responsible for drawing the eyebrows downward and medially, creating vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows, often associated with frowning or tension. It's a key target for relaxation in forehead massages.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The procerus muscle draws the eyebrows down and causes horizontal wrinkles over the bridge of the nose, not vertical forehead wrinkles.
- C. The orbicularis oculi muscle encircles the eye and is responsible for blinking and winking, not vertical forehead wrinkles.
- D. The frontalis muscle raises the eyebrows and wrinkles the forehead horizontally, not vertically.
Corrugator Supercilii
The corrugator supercilii is a small muscle located deep to the orbicularis oculi and frontalis, responsible for drawing the eyebrows together and downward.
- Creates vertical wrinkles (frown lines) between the eyebrows.
- Involved in expressions of concentration and annoyance.
- Often a target for anti-wrinkle treatments and relaxation massages.
- Its name means 'wrinkler of the eyebrow'.
Memory trick: Corrugator 'corrugates' (wrinkles) the brow.