Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What type of massage is generally avoided on inflamed skin?

1. Petrissage

2. Effleurage

3. Friction

4. All types of massage

The correct answer is: All types of massage

Inflamed skin is particularly sensitive and vulnerable to further irritation or damage, which is why all types of massage are generally avoided in such conditions. When skin is inflamed, it indicates an ongoing reaction, potentially due to factors such as infection, allergic reactions, or skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis. Any manipulation of the skin, including massage, can exacerbate the inflammation, leading to increased discomfort or worsening of the condition. Therefore, avoiding all forms of massage is a precautionary measure to protect the integrity and health of the skin. Options like petrissage, effleurage, and friction are specific techniques that would inherently involve direct contact and movement of the skin and underlying tissue, which could aggravate already inflamed areas. Thus, the safest approach is to refrain from any massage techniques until the inflammation subsides.