Overview
Chilblains happen when small blood vessels in the skin react badly to cold and then warming too fast.
They usually appear a few hours after cold exposure and heal in 1 to 3 weeks.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Itchy, red or purple toes after cold
- Cold hands or feet
Less common
- Burning
- Blisters
When to get medical care
Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayBlistering or open sores.
See a doctor soonRecurring patches.
Causes
Cold.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Women
Diagnosis
Diagnosis by looking.
Treatment
Warm slowly.
Self-care
- Warm slowly, not with hot water
- Keep warm and dry
- Warm your skin slowly
- Don't scratch
- Use soothing lotion
- Keep feet dry and wear warm socks
Prevention
To lower your risk or prevent problems:
- Warm socks
- Dress in layers
- Keep your home warm
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Women and people with lupus or Raynaud's: Higher risk.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Heals.
Usually heals without scars.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
Questions to ask
- Could this be linked to poor circulation or lupus?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.