What is the highlighting technique that uses lightener applied to the hair surface, allowing it to hang freely to process?

The highlighting technique described involves applying lightener directly to the surface of the hair so that it can process while hanging freely. This method is known as the balayage technique. Balayage is characterized by its hand-painted application, which allows for a more natural and blended look compared to traditional methods.

The key aspect of balayage is that the stylist paints the lightener onto the hair in sweeping motions, without the use of foils or meche. This results in soft, sun-kissed highlights with a gradual transition, often giving the hair depth and dimension. The freedom in processing allows for a more organic appearance, which is highly sought after in contemporary hair design.

In contrast, other methods like foiling use sheets of foil to isolate sections of hair for more defined highlights, which differs from the free-flowing nature of balayage. Ombre creates a graduated effect from darker roots to lighter ends, typically involving a more significant contrast than found in balayage. Shadowing is not a commonly recognized highlighting technique like the others mentioned.