What does the term "balayage" refer to in hair coloring?

The term "balayage" refers specifically to a freehand painting technique in hair coloring. This method involves the stylist applying color directly to the hair in sweeping motions, which allows for a more natural and sun-kissed look compared to traditional highlighting techniques. The essence of balayage lies in its artistic, textured application, where the color is strategically placed to create depth and dimension throughout the hair without the use of foils or other restrictive methods.

This technique distinguishes itself from options that involve foiling or specific highlighting methods. While foils are typically used for more uniform and structured highlights, balayage provides a softer, more blended result. Additionally, it is not necessarily tied to permanent color, as balayage can be applied using semi-permanent or demi-permanent colors as well. Overall, the freehand application is what defines balayage and sets it apart in the realm of hair coloring techniques.