Other rashes may develop during the winter months (or at any time during the year). It may be difficult to tell one from another, since many cause redness, itchiness, welts or blisters. The AAD notes that most rashes are not life-threatening. However, if the rash covers your entire body, is accompanied by a fever, spreads suddenly and rapidly, turns into open sores, is painful or becomes infected, you should see your healthcare provider for treatment.
Prevent Frostnip/Frostbite In severely cold weather, or when you experience prolonged exposure to the cold, frostnip or frost- bite may develop. Frostnip — the earliest stage of frostbite — does not cause permanent damage. Symptoms include a prickling feeling, followed by numbness and skin that turns red and feels very cold.
If it progresses to frostbite, the skin will turn
white, bluish-white or grayish-yellow in color. When frostbite is serious, you may lose all sensation in the area or experience pain, and your joints and muscles may no longer work.
Frostbite occurs most commonly in areas that are most exposed to the cold or are not getting enough blood flow — such as the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks and chin. To treat frostbite, the Mayo Clinic recommends getting out of the cold, removing wet clothing and gently and gradually rewarming the affected areas using a warm-water bath. Do not rub the skin or use direct heat, such as a heating pad, because doing so can cause burns. Seek medical attention if the frostbite is severe.
The best way to prevent frostnip or frostbite is to be sure your skin is not exposed to the cold. Wear gloves, hats, earmuffs, scarves and warm socks.
Use Sunscreen Year-round Though it may be winter, it’s still important to pro- tect your skin from damaging UV rays, which can be just as strong on cold or cloudy days as they can be during sunny, summer ones. In fact, one study found that people who wore sunscreen every day of the year experienced 24-percent-less visible skin aging than those who did not.
