Hair ServicesQuestion 432 of 484

During a relaxing scalp massage at the shampoo bowl, the practitioner should move with which pattern and pressure to maximize relaxation and lymph/blood return?

a.Hard, fast scrubbing with the fingernails to stimulate the scalp
b.Tugging straight upward on the hair shafts repeatedly to lift the follicles
c.Static pressing with the palms while not moving the hands at all for several minutes
d.Slow, rhythmic, circular motions with the pads of the fingers (not nails), working from the front hairline back, and from the occipital toward the crown, using firm but comfortable pressure

Explanation

Effective scalp massage uses the PADS of the fingers, never the nails, to perform slow, rhythmic, circular movements. The pattern typically begins at the front hairline and works back, and also from the occipital toward the crown, mobilizing the scalp over the cranium and aiding venous and lymphatic return. Pressure should be firm enough to move the scalp on the bone but not so hard that it tears hair. Option A scratches the scalp and is a contraindication for chemical services. Option B pulls on hair, not on scalp. Option C is not massage at all. Scope of practice is set under CCR Title 16 §979.4.

Law Reference: CCR Title 16 §979.4

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