Which body area is most susceptible to frostbite?

The nose is particularly susceptible to frostbite due to several factors. First, the nose is composed of relatively thin skin with a high surface-area-to-volume ratio, making it more exposed to cold temperatures. Additionally, the nose has a rich vascular supply but can become constricted in cold settings, limiting blood flow and increasing the risk of tissue injury from freezing.

Body areas that are less exposed or have more protective fatty tissue, such as the posterior thigh or abdominal area, are generally not as prone to frostbite. Similarly, the medial aspects of the upper arm, being more insulated, experience less direct impact from cold conditions compared to the nose and are better protected from the elements. This anatomical and physiological context helps to underscore why the nose stands out as the most susceptible area to frostbite.