How to prevent and treat skin damage caused by cold

When going out or working in cold weather conditions, body parts that are exposed to low temperatures such as the face, hands, feet, etc. often experience cracking, frostbite, and chilblains. Depending on the level of damage, treatment should be as follows:

Chapped skin:

Exposure to cold air and cold water causes dry skin, dehydration leading to cracking, discomfort, etc. First of all, you need to stop exposure to cold water, clean your skin and use a suitable moisturizer with natural moisturizing ingredients.

Soak your feet in warm salt water before going to bed.

Numb:

Symptoms include sharp pain and bruising in the area exposed to low temperatures. In mild cases, only the skin and subcutaneous tissues are damaged, with symptoms of numbness, tingling and itching. In more severe cases, frostbite affects deeper structures and may cause paresthesia and stiffness. When thawed, it causes pain and burning sensation at the site of injury.

Can be treated by:

Use warm hands to press firmly and for a long time (do not rub), or place fingers in armpits; remove shoes and socks for toes and heels, dry feet, warm them up and cover with dry socks or wrap them with towels and clothes. The best way to warm up is to soak the frozen area in warm water about 40oC until the frozen extremities turn red. After the frostbitten area has thawed and returned to normal temperature, stop warming.

Fee:

These are edematous lesions that are usually localized in the extremities, earlobes, etc. The lesions are often purple, itchy and swollen. If exposed to cold, it will lead to ulcers, bleeding, then scarring and fibrosis of the affected area. The initial itching sensation disappears and is replaced by congestion and severe pain.

Treatment: A simple way to reduce frostbite is to hold your hands in your armpits, warm your feet, ears, and face by rubbing your hands. Do not rub or scratch to avoid further damage and infection. Do not apply medication on your own, see a dermatologist for proper treatment if the condition worsens.

Preventing skin damage from cold

Keep your skin warm when exposed to or working in cold environments, especially body parts that are exposed to low temperatures such as hands, feet, etc.

Eat enough nutrients, drink enough water, and supplement vitamins and minerals to soften the skin and maintain moisture and elasticity.

When going out in the cold or having to work in a cold environment, you need to wear gloves, socks, and boots to keep warm and protect your skin.

Limit direct contact of hands and feet with cold water and cleaning chemicals.

Every day, before going to bed, soak your feet and hands in warm salt water with a few slices of ginger. Soaking for about 15 minutes will help blood circulation and warm the body. Then, dry your feet and put on socks to keep your feet warm even when sleeping.

According to Suckhoedoisong