Health A-Z

Medical Content Created by the Faculty of the
Harvard Medical School

Frostbite

Prevention

The easiest way to prevent frostbite is to avoid exposure to cold.

If you must be outside in cold temperatures, you can protect yourself in several ways:

• Dress in loose layers of clothing. The outermost layer should be wind-resistant to reduce heat loss. Inner layers of silk, polypropylene or wool will keep you warmer than cotton.

• Stay dry. If you are skiing or snowshoeing and are perspiring, remove wet layers of clothing or wear layers that wick moisture away from your skin.

• Try not to go out alone. If you are out in the cold with someone else, you can check each other periodically for signs of frostbite.

• If you start to shiver, go inside if possible.

• Do not handle liquid fuel, such as gasoline. At cold temperatures, fuel can drop below its freezing point yet remain in liquid form. If it touches your skin, it will evaporate immediately and can lead to instant frostbite.

• Wear protective eyewear. It is possible for your corneas to become frostbitten, especially in cold, windy conditions.