Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Petrissage is known for which type of movement?

1. Stroking movements

2. Kneading movements

3. Percussive movements

4. Vibrating movements

The correct answer is: Kneading movements

Petrissage is characterized by kneading movements, which are performed using the hands or fingers to manipulate the muscles and tissues of the body. This technique involves lifting, squeezing, and kneading the skin and underlying muscles, which helps to improve circulation, relieve tension, and enhance overall skin tone and health. Kneading movements can also stimulate lymphatic drainage and promote relaxation, making them a staple in massage therapy and esthetic treatments. While the other options refer to different techniques—stroking movements involve smooth, gliding motions that create a calming effect; percussive movements consist of rhythmic tapping that can energize and invigorate; and vibrating movements use the hands to create vibrations that can soothe and relax—none of them specifically describe the kneading action that is intrinsic to petrissage. Thus, recognizing that petrissage focuses on the kneading movement helps in understanding its primary function and application within esthetics and massage.