You might notice that your newborn is covered in a creamy, white, almost cheesy or waxy substance at birth, this is vernix caseosa, and pound for pound it is worth more than any of the most expensive skincare products on the market, in fact it is invaluable when it comes to newborn skin. Comprising water, proteins, and lipids, vernix acts as a natural barrier, protecting your baby’s delicate skin whilst in the womb and immediately after birth.
Why Is Vernix Important?
Vernix helps keep your baby’s skin hydrated in the womb and reduces moisture loss after birth. Babies lose moisture faster than an adult through a process called TEWL (Trans-Epidermal Water Loss) so not bathing them for at least 24 hours after birth, as advised by World Health Organisation, and leaving the vernix to absorb rather than washing it off can reduce the rate of TEWL.
It acts as a first line of defence, with antimicrobial properties that help protect against infections, and also conditions the skin to support the colonization of healthy and protective bacteria, viruses and fungi that form their incredible living shield known as the microbiome.
It is a natural lubricant, vernix makes labour smoother by easing the passage of the baby through the birth canal.
Should You Wipe It Off?
There’s no need to rush. Leaving vernix on for a few hours, or preferably days, can support your baby’s skin health and immune system. Most guidelines now recommend delaying that first bath to allow the vernix to absorb naturally.
Vernix shouldn’t be washed or wiped away, it is a highly protective, supportive layer that has been cleverly designed to care for your baby’s skin from womb to dry land. Trust your instincts and our expert midwives’ guidance. Vernix is your baby’s first hero skincare product, but to continue that fantastic work we have developed our own range of baby skincare products that are gentle enough to be used from birth and are effective at preserving the integrity of their skin. We have even developed a Midwife-led Masterclass on Caring for Your Newborn’s Skin.
Setting your baby up with a great skincare routine from day one supports them for life!
