08/01/2026
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It’s chilblain season and they are alot more common than you think!
What Are Chilblains?
Chilblains are red or purple swellings that develop on the skin after exposure to cold, damp conditions. They can be very painful and itchy. They occur when the small blood vessels near the skin's surface constrict suddenly in the cold, then expand quickly when the skin warms up. This causes blood to leak into surrounding tissues which leads to inflammation.
Who is at risk?
• People who are exposed to frequent cold, damp weather, especially those who do not keep their skin warm and dry
• Individuals with poor circulation, such as those with Raynaud's disease, diabetes, or peripheral artery disease
• Women, particularly those who are pregnant or have a low body mass index
• Children and older adults, as their bodies may regulate temperature less effectively
Where can chilblains occur?
Chilblains typically affect areas of the body that are more exposed to the cold and have less fat for insulation, including:
• Fingers and toes
• Heels
• Nose
• Ears
• Cheeks
Symptoms
Symptoms usually appear within 12 to 24 hours after exposure to the cold and may include:
• Red, purple, or blue discoloration of the skin
• Small, swollen bumps or patches
• Itching, burning, or stinging sensations, which often get worse when the area warms up
• In severe cases chilblains can blisters, ulcerate or cause permanent discoloration of the skin
Treatment and prevention
There is no cure for chilblains, but symptoms can be managed and prevented with these steps:
1. Keep skin warm and dry: Wear layered, waterproof clothing, gloves, thick socks, and appropriate footwear when outside in cold, damp conditions. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that restrict circulation.
2. Warm affected areas gradually: Never apply direct heat (such as hot water bottles or heaters) to cold skin, as this can worsen symptoms. Instead, warm the area slowly using body heat or lukewarm water.
3. Improve circulation: Stay active, avoid smoking, and maintain a healthy weight. Gentle exercise like walking can help boost blood flow.
4. Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams may help reduce inflammation and itching, but should be used as directed. In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe medication to improve circulation.
5. Avoid scratching: Scratching can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection.
Contact a healthcare professional if chilblains are severe, do not improve within a few weeks, keep recurring, or show signs of infection such as increased pain, pus, or swelling.
