Oklahoma Doctor Warns About Dangers Of 'Ice And Salt' Challenge

Kids are using kitchen items to inflict pain and leave permanent scars on themselves. It's called the "salt and ice" challenge.

In the past week, dozens of videos have hit the internet showing kids challenging each other to mix the two and apply it to their skin. Whoever can withstand the pain the longest wins.

The problem: everyone loses because the dangerous game leaves behind burns.

It's a game that's become popular on the internet. Experts say you shouldn't try the ice and salt challenge because the mixture makes ice colder, which can cause frostbite.

"This can be very painful. You know what it's like to hit yourself with your curling iron or something like that and it burns. This can be a significant burn," Dr. Mary Ann Bauman said.

Dr. Bauman said young people don't realize the consequences.

"The centers of the brain that control impulse, judgments and those sort of things don't develop at this age. I mean, they have bodies that look like they are, well, grown; but they are not."

Dr. Bauman points out the serious risk of permanent skin damage and infection. Some school districts have sent home letters warning parents about the dangerous game.