The Secret Skin Shield: Vernix

Vernix caseosa is the white, sticky, film our babies are born with! It might seem kinda icky & you might want your baby to be washed immediately! Before you decide, might I suggest to do a little digging 🌱 The vernix is actually a huge part of your baby’s maturing immunity. It’s a moisturizing barrier that protects against the new, harsh, realities of the world outside the womb. 🌿 The WHO recommends leaving vernix on your baby's skin for at least 6 hours but preferably 24 hours. 🌳 I plan to leave my little girl covered in her handy-dandy, sticky, cloak of immunity 😂 #vernixcaseosa #vernix #birthplan #birthquestions #mommyhomework #research #theotherwhitestuff #birthhumor

The benefits of the vernix caseosa aren’t limited to pregnancy: This coating also benefits your baby during and after the delivery. Regardless of how little or how much of the substance remains on your baby’s skin after birth, consider keeping the vernix caseosa on your newborn’s skin for as long as possible. This means delaying the first bath. Benefits of this natural protectant include the following. It has antimicrobial properties Newborns have a fragile immune system, which means they’re more susceptible to illnesses. Breast-feeding helps boost a baby’s immune system, but this isn’t the only option. The vernix caseosa can also protect a newborn from infections after birth. This is because the coating contains antioxidants, as well as anti-infection and anti-inflammatory properties. Lubrication through the birth canal The vernix caseosa doesn’t only provide a protective barrier for fluids in the womb. It can also reduce friction as your baby passes through the birth canal during delivery. Helps regulate a baby’s body temperature During pregnancy, your body plays a vital role in regulating your baby’s body temperature. It takes time for a baby to regulate its own body temperature after birth. This is why it’s important to wrap a baby in blankets and maintain a comfortable room temperature. Keeping the vernix caseosa on baby’s skin for as long as possible may naturally stabilize their body temperature. Moisturizes your baby’s skin The vernix caseosa also contributes to softer, smoother skin at birth and after delivery. This cheese-like substance is a natural moisturizer for babies, protecting their skin from dryness and cracking.