Tell me more ×
Biology Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for biology researchers, academics, and students. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 4 down vote favorite
1

Walking outside tonight in -15˚C I realized an interesting observation: While I felt cold on most part of my body, my face (although the only uncovered part) didn't really feel cold. It registered the temperature of course, but it wasn't a negative perception.

I wonder, what is an explanation? Is it simply because our faces are used to the cold, because we almost never cover them? Or is it some evolutionary phenomenon?

share|improve this question
1  
I think you should try to measure the temperature of the skin on your face vs. exposed skin elsewhere to determine if the difference is real or perceived. The head receives a disproportionate amount of blood flow when cold, associated peripheral vasoconstriction. So the extra blood could actually be keeping your face warm. Or it could just be a perception of warmth. – kmm♦ Jan 27 at 14:50
specific body parts are adapted to be heat radiators and so have a different role in heat regulation. i think for humans its the pads of the hands. biology.stackexchange.com/questions/5449/… – shigeta Jan 27 at 23:03

Know someone who can answer? Share a link to this question via email, Google+, Twitter, or Facebook.

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.