Hot springs enthusiasts are hoping for Arctic temperatures in Canada so an annual hair-freezing contest can go forth later this winter.
The yearly competition began in 2012, launched by a spa in the Yukon territory that has since produced some hair-raisingly hilarious pictures.
In the town of Whitehorse, a 10-hour drive from Juneau, Alaska, bathers dip into the naturally warmed waters at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs. If the outdoor temps are cold enough, people can make their hair freeze into wacky shapes.
Temperatures need to drop below -4°F (-20°C) for an extended period to get the best frozen hairstyles that could win the $2,000 prize money.
Contest categories include best female and male, best group, best facial hair, and a people’s choice award, and every category winner receives a $2000 cash prize.
“We kick off the Hair Freezing contest as soon as the temperature drops to -20°C or lower,” said Satyam Jain, a spokesperson for the Hot Springs.
“We usually keep an eye on the forecast to see how long the cold temp will last and start the contest anytime between December and March.”
Last winter, it didn’t stay cold enough for long enough so they postponed the contest until this year.
“We took some photos last year but there wasn’t enough for a proper contest.”
“If we get a consistent temp in November we can also start the contest in November too.”
“The colder it is, the better and faster the freezing effect. The best results I’ve seen are at -22°C, and below (minus 7°F).”
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Their contest’s website includes instructions on how to freeze hair:
- Dip your head in the hot springs and wet your hair completely. Don’t worry- freezing your hair won’t damage it.
- Allow the cold air to slowly freeze your hair. Keep your ears warm by periodically dipping them into the hot water. Be patient–all wet hair will eventually freeze, this includes eyebrows and even eyelashes.
- Once your hair has become pure white with lots of frost and ice buildup, ring the bell near the pool entrance and have our staff come out to take your photo!
Canadian government statistics showed that in 2016, most of Yukon had average temperatures that were more than 3 degrees Celsius higher than those of thirty years ago, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada. That’s a rise of 5.4°F.
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But everyone is hoping for a cold winter in 2024 so the spa can continue the 12-year run of contests, and for more fun to be enjoyed by visiting bathers.
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