What is the technique used to apply hair color to selected strands of hair called?

The technique used to apply hair color to selected strands of hair is known as foil highlighting. This method involves placing colored strands between sheets of foil, which helps to isolate the hair being colored and allows for a more controlled application. The foils also help to keep the heat concentrated around the selected strands, which can enhance the effectiveness of the color, resulting in brighter and more vibrant highlights.

Foil highlighting is particularly popular for creating contrast and dimension in the hair, as it allows for precise placement of the color to achieve specific looks. This technique is especially useful for creating lighter highlights on darker hair or for achieving a multi-dimensional effect with different shades.

Other methods like balayage involve freehand painting of color onto the hair without the use of foils, which creates a more natural, sun-kissed look, while ombre involves gradually transitioning from one color to another, typically from dark to light. Dip dyeing refers to coloring the ends of the hair in a contrasting shade, which also doesn’t involve the precision of selecting specific strands like foil highlighting does.