Do Women Get Cold Faster Than Men?

Many have noticed that women often seem to feel colder than men, especially during winter or in air-conditioned rooms.

But is there real science behind this observation?

In this article, we’ll explore the physiological and hormonal differences between men and women that affect how the body regulates temperature — and why women may indeed feel cold more easily.

How Does the Body Regulate Temperature?

The human body maintains a stable core temperature around 37°C (98.6°F) through a process called thermoregulation, controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain.

When exposed to cold, the body activates mechanisms to preserve heat, such as reducing blood flow to the skin, shivering, and increasing metabolism.

When it’s hot, the opposite happens — blood vessels widen, and we sweat to release excess heat.

Are There Differences Between Men and Women?

Yes. Several biological and physiological factors explain why women often feel colder than men.

The main contributors are body composition, muscle mass, circulation, and hormones.

Body Composition and Fat Distribution

Women typically have a higher body fat percentage than men, especially around the hips, thighs, and buttocks.

While fat helps insulate internal organs, it’s a poor conductor of heat, meaning it can trap warmth inside the core but slow the transfer of heat to the skin.

As a result, women’s skin and extremities often feel colder even if their internal temperature is normal.

Muscle Mass and Heat Production

Men generally have more muscle mass than women, and muscle tissue produces heat when active.

During movement or exercise, muscles generate heat through metabolic activity, which helps maintain body warmth.

Because women typically have less muscle mass, they generate less heat — particularly when resting.

Circulation and Blood Flow

Blood carries heat throughout the body.

Men usually have stronger circulation and a higher resting heart rate, allowing them to distribute warmth more efficiently to hands and feet.

Women, on the other hand, tend to have lower blood pressure and slower circulation, meaning heat takes longer to reach the extremities.

This is one reason why women’s hands and feet are often colder than men’s.

Hormonal Influence

Hormones also play a role in temperature perception.

• Estrogen promotes blood vessel dilation (vasodilation), which increases heat loss through the skin.

• Progesterone, which rises after ovulation, can increase core body temperature slightly.

• Testosterone, more prevalent in men, boosts metabolic rate and heat generation.

Overall, hormonal differences mean women may lose heat more easily and feel cold at lower temperatures.

The Menstrual Cycle Effect

Women can experience temperature changes throughout the menstrual cycle.

After ovulation, rising progesterone levels cause a small increase in body temperature (about 0.3–0.5°C).

Before menstruation, temperature may drop again, making women feel colder or more sensitive to cool environments.

How to Stay Warm – Practical Tips

Regardless of gender, there are several effective ways to stay warm in cold environments:

Dress in Layers

Wearing multiple layers traps air between fabrics, providing insulation.Choose materials like wool, fleece, or synthetic fibers that stay warm even when damp.

Move Regularly

Physical activity boosts circulation and heat production.Even short walks help increase body temperature and prevent stiffness.

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol causes blood vessels to widen, giving a false feeling of warmth, but it actually accelerates heat loss — particularly in the hands and feet.

Keep Hands and Feet Warm

Use insulated shoes, wool socks, and gloves.Reusable heat packs or electric warmers can also help maintain comfort.

Summary

Yes — scientific evidence supports that women tend to feel colder than men.

This is mainly due to differences in muscle mass, circulation, fat distribution, and hormone levels.

Men typically generate more heat and distribute it more efficiently, while women’s bodies are designed to conserve core warmth — which can make the skin and extremities feel colder.

Fortunately, both men and women can manage cold sensitivity through proper clothing, movement, and healthy habits.

Sources

• Fox RH. (2016). Physiological effects of temperature regulation and cold stress. In: Environmental Physiology. Oxford University Press.

• Haman F. (2006). Thermal regulation and adaptation to cold in humans. J Therm Biol, 31(1–2):15–17.

• Stephens DP, et al. (2012). Gender differences in thermoregulation and physical activity responses. Eur J Appl Physiol, 112(4):1377–1384.

• Moser JS, et al. (2014). Gender differences in the regulation of body temperature and heat dissipation during exercise. J Appl Physiol, 116(10):1186–1195.

• Kark JD, et al. (2017). Sex differences in body temperature regulation: mechanisms and clinical implications. Med Sci Sports Exerc, 49(2):217–223.