How to Treat a Freeze Burn

Written by Charlotte Kirkwood

27 July, 2017

Fact Checked

Freeze burn, cold burn or frostbite occurs when the body is exposed to cold temperatures for enough time to cause damage 1 2. In sufficiently cold temperatures, the body transfers heat from the skin to the cold element in contact with the body, which causes damage. Frostbitten or cold-burned skin appears hard and pale, and can become numb. Hands, feet, nose and ears are most susceptible to freeze burn, and in order to save the affected area, first aid treatment is immediately required.

Is This an Emergency?

If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

Seek shelter immediately. To treat freeze burn, removing the source of cold is necessary 1.

How to Treat a Kitchen Burn

Learn More

Remove wet clothing and contracting jewelry. If the body shows signs of hypothermia, treat it immediately by wrapping in warm blankets.

Soak burned areas in warm water. Water should be between 104 to 108 degrees; hot water can cause further damage. Soak for 20 to 30 minutes, keeping the water circulating.

What Are the Treatments for Ice Pack Burn?

Learn More

Apply dressings to the burned areas. Dressing should be clean and sterile. Take care to separate fingers and toes.

Wrap the areas in warm blankets and keep the area from refreezing.

Warnings

Freeze burned areas should be moved as little as possible, even after they are thawed. Do not use heating elements like radiators or heating blankets or hair dryers to thaw skin. Direct heat can further damage skin. Frostbite is a serious medical condition that can result in loss of limbs. Professional medical care should be sought immediately if it is available.