An organization dedicated to helping the Forest Service care for and maintain the Angeles National Forest. Frostbite occurs when the skin tissue is subjected to extreme cold atmospheric conditions for a duration of time long enough to result in actual freezing of tissue fluid. The extent of injury caused by exposure to abnormally low temperature generally depends on such factors as wind velocity, type and duration of exposure, temperature, and humidity. Freezing is accelerated by wind and humidity or a combination of the two factors. The effects are more severe if the injured area is thawed and then re-frozen.
Frostbite is the most common injury resulting from exposure to cold elements.
Usually the frozen area is small. The nose, the cheeks, ears, and toes are the most commonly effected areas. Signs and symptoms 1. Just before frostbite occurs, the effected skin may be slightly flushed. As frostbite develops the skin changes to white or grayish-yellow in appearance.