Which hair coloring technique involves applying color exclusively to selected sections?

The technique that involves applying color exclusively to selected sections of the hair is highlighting. This method focuses on lightening specific strands of hair, creating dimension and contrast with the natural or base color. By selecting particular sections, the stylist can enhance the overall look without altering the color of the entire head of hair.

Highlighting allows for versatility in styling, as it can create a sun-kissed effect, add brightness around the face, or even create bold contrasts depending on the stylist's approach and client’s preferences. It is particularly popular for creating a more vibrant look or for adding depth to the hair.

In contrast, other techniques mentioned, such as all-over color, involve applying the dye uniformly throughout the hair, while balayage is a freehand technique that often results in a more blended and natural look, rather than just focusing on selected sections. Lowlighting, on the other hand, involves adding darker shades to selected areas but does not exclusively apply to lightening, which is the main characteristic of highlighting.