The massage technique involving an invigorating rubbing that stimulates circulation and glandular activity of the skin is called ______.

• A. Friction
• B. Effleurage
• C. Petrissage
• D. Tapotement

Answer: (A)

Friction is a localized, deep rubbing technique that uses small circular or transverse motions with the fingers or thumbs to generate heat and stimulate the skin’s glandular activity, thereby boosting local circulation. This invigorating effect is exactly what the description highlights—the rubbing is designed to wake up the skin and improve blood flow to the area. This differs from effleurage, which are broad, gliding strokes used for relaxation and warming; from petrissage, which kneads deeper into muscle tissue; and from tapotement, which involves rhythmic tapping or striking. The focused, vigorous rubbing of friction makes it the best match for stimulating both circulation and glandular activity in the skin.