Barber Practice State Board Practice Exam

Why is it beneficial to manipulate an oily scalp during massage?

1. It increases blood circulation to the scalp

2. It enhances relaxation of the client

3. It releases harder sebum from follicles

4. It stimulates hair color development

The correct answer is: It releases harder sebum from follicles

When manipulating an oily scalp during a massage, the primary benefit is that it helps release harder sebum from the follicles. Oily scalps can accumulate excess sebum, leading to clogged follicles. By using massage techniques, you can help break down this thicker oil and encourage its easy removal. This not only clears the follicles but also contributes to a healthier scalp environment, promoting hair growth and overall scalp health. The other aspects of scalp massage, such as increasing blood circulation and enhancing relaxation, are certainly benefits of the practice but are not specific to the oily scalp situation. While these benefits apply broadly to scalp massages, the particular focus when dealing with an oily scalp is on managing the sebum effectively. Stimulating hair color development is not a direct benefit of massaging an oily scalp, as hair color is primarily determined by genetics and pigmentation, not scalp condition.