What to Do About Frostbite

Exposure to below-freezing temperatures can cause frostbite, a rare but serious condition that needs emergency medical care. Frostbite can affect any area of the skin, and in extreme cold can develop within minutes.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Frostbite?

aching pain or numbness, most often on hands, feet, face, and ears
skin that feels hard and waxy, with a white or grayish yellow color

How Do I Treat Frostbite?

If you think your child has frostbite, bring them indoors right away and call the doctor. Then:

Do not try to thaw frostbite unless you're in a warm place (warming and then re-exposing frozen skin to cold can cause permanent damage).
Remove wet clothing.
Remove any rings because fingers might swell as they warm up.
Your child should avoid walking on frostbitten toes.
Don't rub frostbitten areas — treat them gently.
Warm the frostbitten parts in warm (not hot) water for about 30 minutes. For frostbite on the face, use warm, wet washcloths.
If warm water is not available, use body heat, such as an armpit, to warm fingers.
Don't use dry heat — such as a fireplace, oven, or heating pad — to thaw frostbite.
Don't break any blisters.
Place clean cotton balls between frostbitten fingers and toes after they've been warmed.
Loosely wrap warmed areas with clean bandages to prevent refreezing.
Give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.

Get Emergency Medical Care if Your Child Has:

an area of skin that is turning white and hard

What Can Help Prevent Frostbite?

Stay updated on weather forecasts. Keep kids warm and dry in cold weather. Loose-fitting, layered warm clothes are best. Have kids wear well-insulated boots, thick socks, hats, scarves, and mittens. Water-resistant boots, jackets, and mittens are good for playing in the snow. Keep kids well hydrated to help prevent frostbite.

Ice packs applied directly to the skin can cause frostbite. When using ice packs to treat things like swelling or an injury, always cover them with a cloth before applying to the skin.