Living in a “housetruck” amidst the Canadian wilderness, Kai, a woman in her mid-thirties, recently gained widespread attention for sharing her outdoor haircare routine in freezing temperatures. While her off-the-grid lifestyle captivated many, it also sparked discussions and criticisms, particularly regarding her use of non-biodegradable hair products.
Kai, based in coastal British Columbia, began her housetruck journey a decade ago, converting an old truck into a home, and moved in with her partner and cat five years ago. During the COVID pandemic, she started documenting her unique lifestyle on TikTok, amassing an impressive following of 908,000 viewers intrigued by her unconventional way of life.
In a video that garnered 4.1 million views, Kai demonstrated how she washes her hair outdoors in -5 degrees Celsius temperatures (23 degrees Fahrenheit). Chopping firewood to warm her house, thawing her shower hose, and using a propane-powered water heater connected to a well, Kai showcased her resourcefulness. However, the spotlight also brought critiques, especially regarding her choice of commercial hair products.
Responding to comments about the environmental impact of non-biodegradable products, Kai addressed the concerns in a subsequent video. She explained that she had experimented with eco-friendly alternatives in the past but encountered issues with ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil congealing when frozen, leading to complications with her septic system.
Acknowledging the importance of sustainability, Kai emphasized that her overall lifestyle is more eco-friendly than most. She practices bulk shopping, minimal electricity usage, personal waste disposal, and grows her vegetables during the summer. Despite these efforts, she solicited recommendations for affordable and accessible eco-friendly hair products in Canada, with viewers suggesting solid shampoo and conditioner bars.
Kai remained unfazed by criticism, highlighting that her lifestyle choices extend beyond a single aspect. In the face of detractors, her followers rallied in support, emphasizing the broader perspective of her unique journey.
“Can’t believe with everything going on in this world people are worried about a woman taking a shower outside,” one supportive viewer commented. “Keep doing you!!”
