Ice burns: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Prevention

Published: February, 2022

Last Reviewed: August, 2025

Many of us are aware that heat can burn our skin, but we can also suffer burns from ice or cold objects. Skin tissue can be damaged after coming into contact with anything that's extremely cold, like an ice pack, or if we spend too long in freezing temperatures.

In this article, learn what an ice burn is, what the symptoms and causes are, and how to treat ice burns on the skin with Elastoplast wound healing products. 

An ice burn on skin occurs when ice, snow, or other extremely cold objects like metal, come into contact with the skin and damage the skin tissue. The water in the skin cells freezes, forming sharp ice crystals that can damage the skin cell structure.

The cold causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow and the amount of oxygen delivered to the affected area. This can lead to blood clots, further limiting oxygen flow. In severe cases, bleeding may occur if the cold disrupts blood-clotting proteins.

There is a slight difference between an ice or snow burn and frostbite. Frostbite from an ice pack can occur if you place the ice pack directly on your skin and leave it for too long. While ice packs are helpful and recommended for soothing pain, inflammation, and swelling, it’s important to avoid ice burns. 

Frostbite happens when the skin and underlying tissues freeze due to exposure to freezing temperatures. If frostbite affects deeper skin layers, impacting tissue and bone, it can cause permanent damage.

Ice burns on skin usually look like other types of burn, such as sunburn. The symptoms of ice burn vary depending on the severity of condition. They can cause symptoms such as:

• Redness or paleness
• Numbness or tingling
• Pain and discomfort
• Blisters
• Hard or waxy skin
• Changes in skin colours (red, dark, white or grey skin)
• Loss of sensation

If you notice any of these symptoms, is important to get immediate ice burn treatment to prevent further damage.

Treating an ice or snow burn involves slowly warming the skin to bring it back to its previous temperature. Follow these actions to treat a burn from ice immediately after the injury:

Immediately move your skin away from ice, snow, or any cold object that caused the injury. Remove any wet clothing and debris from the affected area to prevent further damage.

Do not rub or touch the burn, as this can worsen the injury and slow down the healing process. 

Gently soak the burn in warm (not hot) water for 20 minutes. Repeat the soak if necessary, allowing a 20-minute break between sessions. You can also use a blanket or warm compress alongside the warm-water soaks to help restore the skin to its normal temperature. 

Use Elastoplast Wound Spray to gently cleanse and disinfect the affected area. Hold the spray 10–15 cm from the burn and let it dry before applying any dressings or ointments. This helps prevent infection and supports the natural healing process, making it an effective first-aid step.

Once the burn is clean, apply a thin layer of Elastoplast Wound Healing Ointment directly to the wound. Cover with a suitable dressing if needed. The ointment soothes discomfort, supports the skin’s natural repair process, and provides a protective barrier against infection.

For larger or moisture-prone areas, cover the burn with an Elastoplast Waterproof Wound Dressing XXL. This dressing forms a waterproof barrier against water, dirt, and bacteria, allowing you to continue your daily activities while keeping the wound clean and supporting effective healing. Elastoplast also offers a wide range of fabric and waterproof plasters in various sizes to suit different needs. Explore more selections here or learn more about how to determine the types of dressings you need. 

Freezing temperatures or direct contact with a cold object can cause an ice burn on the skin. This happens when ice, snow, or any extremely cold substance touches your skin for a long time. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures, snow, or strong winds can increase the risk of developing an ice burn.

Ice burns often occur when ice or cold packs are applied directly to the skin while treating an injury or sore muscles. Learn more about hot and cold therapy for injuries.

Most superficial snow and ice burns can be treated at home using the steps above, and often heal without the need for medical attention. However, contact your doctor if you notice any symptoms of a severe burn from ice:

• skin turning and remaining dark, pale white, or grey, instead of regaining its normal complexion
• skin feeling numb and not tingling during warm-water treatments
• the affected body part doesn't function as normal
• blood-filled blisters

These can be symptoms of severe tissue damage that require treatment.

When using an ice pack on your skin, pay close attention to how it feels. Applying an ice pack directly to the skin can cause a burn or frostbite within minutes. If you begin to feel frostnip—the early stage of an ice burn, where your skin may turn red or pale and develop a tingling or prickling feeling—remove the ice pack right away and warm the area to avoid skin damage.

Use these guidelines to prevent ice pack burns.

• Use a tea towel or layer of clothing between your skin and the cold source. Using a bag of frozen vegetables is another option and can reduce the risk of burns on our skin. 
• Do not leave the ice pack against your skin longer than 20 minutes. A good method is 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. Learn more about cold therapy for pain.
• Never fall asleep with an ice pack on your skin.
• Keep an eye out for any initial symptoms of ice burn, including redness or paleness alongside a tingling or even a numb feeling. If you do notice this, remove the ice pack immediately. It’s also possible to sustain ice burns from exposure to very cold weather. To prevent this from happening, make sure you’re appropriately dressed for any time spent outside in freezing conditions.

Factors that increase the risk of ice burns on the skin include:

• Cold exposure: spending long periods outdoors or taking part in winter sports.
• Poor circulation: conditions such as diabetes or habits like smoking can make skin more vulnerable. 
• Certain medications: drugs like beta blockers slow the heart and reduce blood flow.
• Reduced sensitivity to pain or injury: for example, peripheral neuropathy
• Age: children and older adults have more delicate skin and are more prone to ice burns. 

Always see a doctor if the wound is deep, bleeds heavily or shows signs of infection like reddening, swelling or warmth.

Please note that, although these were compiled with great care, the tips and advice given on this website by no means substitute medical advice and treatment. If you have or suspect a health problem, consult a doctor and follow medical advice regardless of what you have learned on this website.

Always read carefully and follow the instructions for use or the product leaflets. For further information about our products, please contact us via email at ConsumerRelationsUK@Beiersdorf.com.