What is the International Hair Freezing Contest? The International Hair Freezing Contest is an exciting and quirky annual competition held at Takhini Hot Springs Resort in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada. Participants brave the freezing cold temperatures and immerse their heads in hot spring water to sculpt their wet hair. After about a minute, the hair freezes, forming unique and creative shapes. The result is a fun and memorable competition that has become a must-see event each February.
When Did the Hair Freezing Contest Start?
The first Hair Freezing Contest took place in 2011, and it has been growing in popularity ever since. Every year, participants come from around the world to test their creativity and see whose frozen hair can take the most unique and impressive form. The grand prize for the contest is $2,000, awarded to the person with the most remarkable frozen hair sculpture.
How Is Hair Freezing Done?
If you’re thinking about entering the contest or just curious about how it works, here’s a simple breakdown of the process:
- Step 1: Wet Your Hair
First, you must fully immerse your head in the hot spring water, ensuring your hair gets thoroughly wet. Don’t worry – freezing your hair won’t harm it! - Step 2: Freeze Your Hair
Once your hair is wet, step into the cold air, and allow the freezing process to begin. In just about a minute, your hair will freeze, creating sculptures that are completely unique. - Step 3: Keep Your Ears Warm
Since the cold air can freeze your ears too, it’s advisable to periodically dip them back into the hot spring to keep them warm and comfortable.
The Effects of Cold Weather on Hair
While freezing your hair for fun is an unusual activity, cold weather itself can have some serious effects on your hair. Here’s how the cold impacts your locks:
- Dryness: Cold air causes moisture to be stripped from your hair, leaving it dry and brittle.
- Split Ends: The lack of humidity can cause split ends, which are more noticeable during winter months.
- Static: Dry hair is more prone to static, causing your hair to frizz and become unruly.
To counteract these effects, it’s essential to hydrate your hair with moisturizing treatments and avoid over-exposure to cold, dry air.
Why Participate in the Hair Freezing Contest?
The Hair Freezing Contest is not just about freezing your hair for the fun of it; it’s a celebration of creativity and a chance to experience the unique combination of hot springs and cold temperatures in one of Canada’s most stunning regions. Whether you’re competing for the grand prize or simply want to have fun with friends, the contest is an experience that you’ll never forget.
Conclusion
The International Hair Freezing Contest at Takhini Hot Springs Resort is an unforgettable event that draws people from all over the world to create frozen hair sculptures in a picturesque winter setting. Whether you’re looking to take home the grand prize or just enjoy the fun of the competition, it’s an experience worth trying. Remember, despite the cold, freezing your hair is harmless, so long as you keep your ears warm and enjoy the unique process!