Frostbite First Aid and Home Care
Care Instructions
Frostbite occurs when the skin temperature drops too low, reducing blood circulation and causing tissue to freeze. In Lapland’s fell conditions, wind chill significantly increases the risk of frostbite even at mildly freezing temperatures. The most commonly affected areas are cheeks, the tip of the nose, fingers, and toes. Mild frostbite (tingling, white skin) is superficial, but deep frostbite always requires medical attention.
Treating frostbite at home
The most important step is to immediately move out of the cold into a warm indoor environment. Never rub the frostbitten area with snow or your hands, as this will further damage the frozen tissue.
Warm the frostbitten area slowly and gently. The best method is to use body heat (e.g., placing cold fingers in an armpit) or submerge the area in warm water (approx. 37–40°C / 98–104°F). The water must not be hot. Continue warming for at least 20–30 minutes until sensation returns to the skin and the color turns red.
As the skin thaws, you may feel intense pain, tingling, and burning in the area. This is a sign of returning blood circulation. You can take painkillers to alleviate symptoms. Protect the skin well after warming.
Contact a doctor if:
- The skin remains white, hard, or numb despite warming.
- The skin turns gray, blue, or black.
- Bloody or clear blisters appear on the frostbitten area.