It occurs when part of your body is severely affected by temperatures well below freezing. The flow of blood to the affected area stops, and skin cells may be permanently damaged in severe cases. Any part of your body may be affected, but exposed parts such as your hands, feet, nose, and ears are most at risk.
Frostbitten skin is hard, pale, cold, and numb.
When the skin is thawed out, it becomes red and painful. When you must go out in extreme cold, wear several layers of warm clothes under a waterproof, windproof outer garment. Remember that fatigue, drinking alcohol, and lack of oxygen resulting from high elevations can affect your judgment, which can cause you to disregard the feeling that you are too chilled and ought to go indoors. Infants and children may lack the ability or knowledge to dress protectively enough to avoid frostbite. Parents should make sure their children are dressed adequately.