Which massage technique stimulates circulation and glandular activity of the skin?

Friction is a massage technique that involves the application of pressure with the fingertips or palms in a circular motion or back-and-forth movement. This technique effectively stimulates circulation by increasing blood flow to the area being worked on. Additionally, friction promotes glandular activity in the skin, as it enhances the secretion of oils and sweat, which are important for maintaining skin health and hydration.

The use of friction improves the local metabolism and can help to loosen tension in muscles and tissues, making it particularly useful for addressing tight areas and enhancing overall skin vitality. The specific movements and pressure applied during friction help to penetrate deeper layers of the skin, facilitating greater physiological benefits compared to other techniques.

In contrast, the other techniques, while beneficial in their own right, do not specifically focus on stimulating circulation and glandular activity in the same way that friction does. Pétrissage primarily involves kneading and lifting the tissue, which is excellent for muscle relaxation but not as targeted toward the skin's circulation or glandular functions. Vibration involves rapid shaking or oscillating movements, whereas tapotement involves rhythmic, percussive strikes on the body, both of which may enhance circulation to some extent but are not primarily aimed at stimulating glandular activity like friction does.