Texas Cosmetology Operator Written ExamSkin Care ServicesMedium
A cosmetologist is performing a facial massage. Which of the following massage movements is characterized by light, continuous stroking movements, often used to begin and end a facial, and to apply products?
- AFriction
- BEffleurage
- CTapotement
- DPetrissage
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Effleurage
Effleurage is a light, continuous stroking movement applied with the fingers or palms. It is typically used to open and close a massage, and to apply and distribute products, providing a calming and soothing effect.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Friction involves deep rubbing movements, often with thumbs or fingers, to stimulate circulation and break down adhesions.
- C. Tapotement (percussion) consists of short, quick tapping, slapping, and hacking movements.
- D. Petrissage involves kneading, lifting, squeezing, and pressing the tissue, used for deep muscle stimulation.
Effleurage Massage
A massage technique characterized by light, continuous stroking or gliding movements, typically used to begin and end a facial and apply products.
- Soothing and relaxing
- Performed with fingers or palms
- Used for product distribution
- First and last movement in a massage sequence
Memory trick: Effleurage is the 'easy flow' for first and last strokes.