Question 1

Which massage movement is performed with the tips of the fingers in small, circular motions and is used to stimulate circulation?

Accepted Answer

Friction movements use firm pressure in small, circular or cross-fiber motions to generate heat, loosen adhesions, and stimulate circulation. Effleurage is a light, gliding stroke used to begin and end a massage and spread product. Petrissage involves kneading and lifting of tissue. Tapotement is a percussive movement (tapping, slapping, hacking).

Question 2

In a classic European facial, after cleansing and exfoliation, what step typically follows?

Accepted Answer

The standard sequence in a classic European facial is: Cleanse → Exfoliate → Steam → Extraction → Massage → Mask → Serum/Toner → Moisturizer/SPF. Steaming softens the skin and loosens pores before extractions, making comedone removal easier and less traumatic. Massage typically follows extractions, not precedes them.

Question 3

A client with active acne pustules comes in for a facial. Which service is contraindicated?

Accepted Answer

Aggressive manual extractions on inflamed, active pustules can spread bacteria, worsen inflammation, cause scarring, and increase infection risk. Inflamed pustules (Grade III–IV acne) should not be extracted. The esthetician should refer severe or cystic acne to a dermatologist. Light enzyme treatments, calming masks, and desincrustation on non-inflamed comedones may still be appropriate.

Question 4

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid exfoliate the skin primarily by:

Accepted Answer

AHAs work chemically — they lower the pH of the skin and break down the desmosomal bonds that hold dead keratinocytes together, allowing them to shed more easily. This reveals fresher cells beneath. AHAs do not physically abrade (that's mechanical/physical exfoliation). BHAs (salicylic acid) are oil-soluble and penetrate follicles, making them better for acne.

Question 5

Effleurage in facial massage is described as:

Accepted Answer

Effleurage uses light, continuous gliding strokes following the direction of muscle origin to insertion. It promotes relaxation, increases circulation, and is used at the start and end of massage sequences.

Question 6

Steam (vapozone or facial steamer) is applied during a facial primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Facial steam softens follicular debris, loosens impactions, and opens follicles, making manual extraction easier and improving the penetration of treatment products applied after steaming.

Question 7

High frequency electrical current in esthetics is used to:

Accepted Answer

High frequency (Tesla current) creates ozone at the skin surface, which is bactericidal. It increases blood circulation, oxygenates tissue, and is used for acne-prone skin, post-extraction, and anti-aging treatments.

Question 8

When performing extractions, the esthetician should avoid:

Accepted Answer

Cystic or nodular acne involves infection deep within the dermis. Attempting manual extraction on cystic lesions can rupture the follicle wall internally, spread infection, and cause scarring. These cases should be referred to a dermatologist.

Question 9

A mask containing kaolin or bentonite clay is most appropriate for:

Accepted Answer

Clay masks (kaolin, bentonite) absorb excess sebum, draw out impurities from follicles, and temporarily tighten pores. They are ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types. They would be too drying for sensitive or dry skin.

Question 10

Lymphatic drainage massage in an esthetic facial is performed using:

Accepted Answer

Manual lymphatic drainage uses extremely light pressure (lighter than effleurage) in a rhythmic, directional pattern toward lymph nodes. It reduces puffiness, promotes detoxification, and improves immune function. Heavy pressure compresses and blocks lymph vessels.

Facial Treatments & Techniques Practice Questions

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