Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

A form of petrissage that involves pinching the skin is known as:

1. Friction

2. Fulling

3. Wringing

4. Petrissage

The correct answer is: Fulling

The term that refers to the specific form of petrissage involving pinching the skin is indeed fulling. This technique is characterized by manipulating the skin and underlying tissues by pinching and squeezing, helping to improve circulation and promote relaxation in the muscles. Fulling is often used in massage practices and is recognized for its ability to stretch and expand the tissues, which can aid in improving lymphatic drainage and overall skin health. It is a unique and effective method used by estheticians to enhance skin treatments, allowing for a deeper level of tissue engagement compared to other techniques. In contrast, friction refers to a technique that involves rubbing movements with more intensity and is generally used to stimulate deeper muscle layers. Wringing involves a similar pinching motion, but it is focused more on rolling the tissue in opposite directions rather than pinching. Petrissage as a broader category encompasses various kneading techniques that include but are not limited to fulling. Therefore, identifying fulling as the specific action of pinching the skin helps in understanding the nuances in massage and esthetic techniques.