As the weather turns colder, many people notice changes in their hands and feet , tingling, numbness, or painful red patches. These symptoms may be signs of Raynaud’s disease or chilblains, two common cold-related conditions that affect circulation and skin health.
At Kin Body and Sole, we believe education is key to prevention and care. Here’s what you need to know:
What Is Raynaud’s Disease?
Raynaud’s disease is a condition where small blood vessels in the extremities (usually fingers and toes ) overreact to cold or stress. This causes temporary narrowing of the vessels, reducing blood flow and leading to:
- Cold, pale, or blue fingers and toes
- Numbness or tingling
- A burning sensation as circulation returns
Raynaud’s can be primary (occurring on its own) or secondary (linked to other health conditions like autoimmune diseases).
What Are Chilblains?
Chilblains are small, itchy, red or purple patches that appear on the skin after exposure to cold and damp conditions. They occur when the skin warms up too quickly after being cold, causing blood vessels to expand faster than nearby smaller vessels can handle.
Symptoms include:
- Red, swollen patches
- Itching or burning
- Blistering or skin cracking in severe cases
Chilblains are more common in people with poor circulation, and they often affect toes, fingers, ears, and nose.
How Kin Body and Sole Can Help
Assessment and Diagnosis
At Kin Body and Sole, we don’t just treat the symptoms , we work to understand the underlying cause of your cold-related foot problems. Our clinicians can:
- Identify whether your symptoms are due to Raynaud’s, chilblains, or another circulation issue.
- Carry out a vascular assessment to check blood flow to the feet and determine whether reduced circulation may be contributing to the problem.
- Assess whether this is primary or secondary Raynaud’s, helping to understand whether your symptoms are part of a wider health picture.
- Highlight any red flags or underlying health concerns that may require further investigation or onward referral.
Our goal is to help you understand why your symptoms are happening and guide you with clear, personalised steps to improve your foot health.
Targeted Products to Support Your Symptoms
We also offer carefully selected products to help manage and prevent cold-related conditions:
- Akileïne Akilhiver Chilblains barrier Cream , a specialist formula that supports microcirculation and helps relieve redness, discomfort, and sensitivity associated with chilblains.
- Thermal Insoles – designed to keep feet warm and reduce the risk of chilblains developing.
These products are ideal for anyone who spends time outdoors, works in cold environments, or is prone to circulation problems.
Winter Care Tips to Protect Your Circulation
Here are some practical ways to reduce your risk of Raynaud’s and chilblains:
- Dress in layers – Use thermal socks, gloves, and hats to keep extremities warm.
- Warm up gradually – Avoid placing cold hands or feet directly on heaters.
- Stay active – Gentle movement improves circulation and keeps your body warm.
- Moisturise regularly – Dry skin is more vulnerable to damage in cold weather.
- Avoid smoking – Nicotine constricts blood vessels and worsens circulation.
- Stay hydrated – Good hydration supports healthy blood flow.