Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

Which muscle extends from the upper part of the shoulder to the corner of the mouth and is commonly massaged during a facial?

1. Pectoralis

2. Sternocleidomastoid

3. Platysma

4. Trapezius

The correct answer is: Platysma

The platysma is the correct answer because it is a broad sheet of muscle that runs from the upper part of the shoulder (clavicle and scapula) up to the lower jaw and corner of the mouth. This muscle plays a significant role in facial expressions, especially in conveying emotions such as surprise or disdain, as it can cause the corners of the mouth to turn down or reveal tension in the neck area. During facial treatments, the platysma is often massaged to promote relaxation and improve the appearance of the neck and jawline. Massaging this muscle can also help to alleviate tension and improve circulation, which can contribute to a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance of the skin. The other muscles listed in the options, while important in their own right, do not connect the shoulder region directly to the corner of the mouth nor are they commonly a focus during facial massages. The pectoralis is primarily associated with movements of the shoulder, the sternocleidomastoid is involved in head movement and support, and the trapezius relates to neck and upper back movement, none of which have the same relevance to facial treatments as the platysma.