What does the term “highlight pattern” refer to in hair color application?

The term "highlight pattern" refers specifically to the method used to lighten strands of hair. In hair coloring, highlights are created by selectively lightening certain sections of hair to add dimension and contrast. The highlight pattern determines how these lighter strands are distributed throughout the hair. This technique can vary widely, with some patterns focusing on face-framing sections, while others may involve a more scattered or uniform approach across the entire head. This concept is crucial for stylists to understand, as the choice of highlight pattern significantly influences the overall look and style of the hair.

The other options focus on different aspects of hair coloring or hair cutting rather than the specific technique used to create highlights. The choice of color for highlights and the overall coloring of the head fall under different categories, while cutting techniques refer to hair shaping, which is distinct from the coloring aspect.