What is Vernix? Understanding Its Benefits for Newborns
Vernix. Ever heard of it?
After a baby is born, they are covered in a white, waxy substance called Vernix caseosa. This substance is often referred to as “nature's moisturizer” and is packed with nutrients that provide numerous benefits for newborns. In this blog post, we'll explore what vernix is, its benefits for newborns, and why you might want to consider leaving it on your baby's skin after birth.
What is Vernix?
Vernix caseosa is a white, waxy substance that covers a newborn's skin. It is produced by the baby's sebaceous glands and begins to develop around 20 weeks gestation. The substance is made up of proteins, lipids, and water, which give it a unique texture and composition. Vernix provides several benefits for newborns, particularly when left on the skin after birth.
Benefits of Vernix
Moisturizes and protects the skin Vernix acts as a natural moisturizer, helping to protect your baby's skin from the harsh environment outside the womb. It forms a barrier that locks in moisture, preventing your baby's skin from drying out.
Regulates body temperature Newborns are unable to regulate their body temperature in the same way that adults can. Vernix helps to regulate the baby's body temperature by acting as an insulator.
Antibacterial properties Vernix has antibacterial properties that help to protect your baby from infections and other harmful bacteria.
Promotes healing Vernix contains anti-inflammatory agents that help to promote healing and prevent inflammation.
Leaving Vernix on Your Baby
Leaving the vernix on your baby's skin after birth has become more popular in recent years. Some parents choose to rub the vernix into their baby's skin, while others leave it to absorb naturally. The idea behind leaving the vernix on your baby's skin is that it provides many of the benefits listed above.
In conclusion, Vernix caseosa is a substance that provides several benefits for newborns. Leaving it on your baby's skin after birth can provide natural moisturization, protect your baby from bacteria and infections, regulate their body temperature, and promote healing. It is a decision that you should discuss with your healthcare provider, but many parents have found it to be a beneficial and natural way to care for their newborn's skin.
Other known facts about vernix:
Vernix begins to form on the unborn baby at about 20 weeks gestation, partially to prevent baby’s skin from getting too waterlogged after marinating in amniotic fluid month after month.
Unlike skin cells, vernix is more mobile and fluid, similar to lotion.
Even though it helps protect baby’s skin from amniotic fluid, the creamy vernix itself contains about 80% water.
About 61% of the proteins found in this white substance, can only be found in vernix. And humans are the only ones that produce it, making it truly unique.
Not only is this magical substance awesome for baby, but it’s good for mom too. Because it’s antibacterial and antimicrobial in nature, it can help prevent infection of the vaginal canal as the baby passes through. It also has superior wound healing properties, and has even been shown to help perineal tears heal better.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and other contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Momentous Doula Care.
Sources:
Mama Natural Vernix Article ; Children’s Mom MD - Delaying Babies First Bath
This study found that delaying the infant bath more than 24 hours led to more exclusive breastfeeding, less hypothermia, and less hypoglycemia. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32057686/
This article isn’t a peer reviewed study, but it has eight reasons to delay a bath: https://childrensmd.org/browse-by-age-group/pregnancy-childbirth/delaying-babys-first-bath/