What part of the hand is used for effleurage on the face?

Effleurage is a gentle, gliding stroke used in massage therapy, particularly effective for warming up the tissue and soothing the client. When performing effleurage on the face, the technique benefits from using the cushions of the fingertips. These areas have a soft texture and are more sensitive, allowing for a more delicate touch, which is essential when working on the facial tissue.

Using the cushions of the fingertips enables the therapist to apply a light and smooth pressure that can easily glide across the contours of the face, facilitating relaxation and enhancing blood circulation. This approach is gentle enough to avoid any discomfort that might arise from using firmer areas of the hand, ensuring a soothing experience for the client.

In contrast, using the ends of the fingertips may not provide the ideal surface for this gentle technique, as they can be too pointed and may create pressure that feels uncomfortable when applied to sensitive facial skin. The palm, while useful in many other types of massage, is generally too broad for the fine movements required on the face. Lastly, the knuckles would be too harsh for facial work, which needs a softer touch to be effective and safe. Thus, the cushions of the fingertips are the best choice for executing effleurage on the face.