Eli5 why do doctors say not to apply ice directly to the skin and to wrap in a towel but doctors also recommend athletes regularly take ice baths?

Question

Eli5 why do doctors say not to apply ice directly to the skin and to wrap in a towel but doctors also recommend athletes regularly take ice baths?

In: 5

Answer 1

The water in an ice bath will be no colder than 32F / 0C. That is safe for your skin to be in contact with.

However, a block of ice can be much colder, possibly cold enough to cause damage to your skin.