Frostbite occurs when the water in body tissues freeze. If frostbite is severe, the frozen tissue dies. Prevention is extremely important because treatment is not always successful. Skin turns white and waxy.
Skin is firm to the touch, but the underlying tissues are soft.
Exposed surfaces become numb. This can destroy fragile tissue. If you have any concerns, call your doctor or transport to emergency department. Do not attempt to rewarm the area unless you can guarantee that it will stay warm. Once the tissue is frozen, the major harm is done.