Which hair coloring technique involves applying color only to specific sections of hair?

The technique of applying color only to specific sections of hair is best represented by balayage. This method involves hand-painting highlights onto the hair, which creates a natural, sun-kissed effect. The stylist carefully selects specific strands or areas to color, allowing for a more personalized and dimensional result. Balayage is particularly favored because it requires less maintenance compared to other coloring techniques, as the roots can grow out without a stark contrast.

Global color, on the other hand, refers to applying color uniformly across all the hair, resulting in a single, solid shade. Ombre involves a gradient effect where the hair transitions from a darker color at the roots to a lighter color at the ends, rather than focusing on isolated sections. Highlights typically involve foiling or weaving techniques that also lighten various sections of hair, but they do not carry the same freehand approach as balayage, which is more about artistic placement and blending.