Ephel

Ephel is an informal, colloquial term used in New Zealand and other English-speaking countries to refer to small, icy ridges that form on silken beards during cold weather. These ridges, also known as "beard frost" or "morning ice," are composed of freeze-dried, dehydrated water droplets that accumulate on the hairs and create small, protruding formations.

The formation of ephel is a result of the unique conditions required for its creation. It typically occurs when there is a sudden drop in temperature, often overnight, causing the water droplets on the beard hairs to freeze and expand. As the ice crystals form within the hair shaft, they create a crystal lattice structure that gives the ephel its characteristic appearance.

Ephel can provide temporary protection to the skin against wind and cold, and in some cultures, it is considered a symbol of good health and vitality. It is more commonly associated with external facial hair, but can also appear on other types of body hair, such as eyebrows or pubic hair.

The term "ephel" is not a widely used scientific term, and it is generally not recognized in academic or formal contexts. However, in informal settings, particularly among outdoor enthusiasts and trampers, the term is commonly used to describe this unique phenomenon. The observation of ephel is often a popular topic among people who spend time outdoors in cold climates, and it is frequently cited as an example of the intricate and complex behavior of water and air in the natural environment.