Baby Daily Life
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In the first moments (and even weeks), your baby doesn’t really look like the ones you see in commercials or movies. Among the most surprising things: their skin may be covered in vernix. What is it? What is it used for? Should it be removed? Baby vernix: let’s take a closer look.
What is vernix?
Vernix, or vernix caseosa for the more scientific among you, is a unique and precious substance that covers newborns’ skin at birth. Its creamy, greasy, whitish appearance may be surprising, but it plays a real protective role for your baby’s skin. Vernix is mainly composed of lipids, proteins, and dead epidermal cells, giving it a waxy texture and a white color. Together, these elements form a moisturizing and protective layer that helps keep your baby’s skin safe from external aggressions. Good to know: vernix forms during the third trimester of pregnancy because, in addition to protecting your baby’s skin in utero, it also helps facilitate passage during labor. 
The essential roles of vernix
Although vernix caseosa has a somewhat off-putting appearance, it is actually of great support for your baby’s skin, ensuring a smooth transition between the amniotic fluid and the outside world. Let’s take a look at the benefits of this natural, multifunctional cream.
Skin protection and pH regulation
As mentioned earlier, vernix acts as a natural protector for your newborn’s skin, which is still very sensitive. This skin barrier protects them in the amniotic sac, then prevents redness and potential irritation caused by materials or products that may be too harsh for their skin at birth. This layer of vernix also helps maintain good hydration of your baby’s epidermis. Additionally, vernix plays an essential role in regulating the pH (acidity levels) of your baby’s skin. A balanced pH helps prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, protecting the skin from infections.
Antibacterial and antifungal properties
The antibacterial and antifungal properties of vernix are among its most remarkable qualities. Thanks to its unique composition of lipids and proteins, vernix creates a hostile environment for harmful microorganisms. This significantly reduces the risk of skin infections in newborns. Good to know: vernix also helps your baby maintain body heat at birth! 
Vernix after birth: should you clean it?
As we’ve seen, in the hours following birth, vernix plays a protective role for your baby. But what should you do with this natural protector after birth? The answer is simple: nothing! Your baby’s skin will naturally absorb the vernix over time, helping strengthen their skin barrier. Regarding your baby’s first bath, it is generally recommended to wait a bit. This allows the vernix to remain in contact with the skin as long as possible, maximizing its hydrating and protective properties. Your healthcare professionals will usually recommend waiting at least 48 hours before giving your baby their first bath, or even longer if possible. This allows their skin to fully benefit from the advantages of vernix. Want to learn more? Feel free to download the May app, where you’ll find plenty of resources to support and guide you throughout your journey as a new parent. 
Vernix and sensory development
Even more surprising: vernix also plays a role in your child’s sensory development and in establishing the bond with their mother. The smell of vernix is actually infused with the scents of the intrauterine environment, creating an olfactory continuity during this environmental transition for your baby. This continuity helps provide a feeling of security in their new environment. For you, the smell of vernix (and therefore of your baby) — enhanced by skin-to-skin contact — encourages the production of oxytocin, the hormone of bonding and love. For those who have chosen to breastfeed, note that the smell of vernix can also stimulate milk let-down. Far from being a simple residue of birth, vernix is an essential component of your baby’s well-being at birth. Shield, thermal regulator, antifungal agent, and even an olfactory comfort object: vernix is a fascinating substance that is recommended to keep in contact with your baby’s skin for as long as possible. 
** Photo credits: Wavebreakmedia | mvaligursky | raffinboy | relucal | monkeybusiness This text was translated from French by an artificial intelligence. The information, advice, and sources it contains comply with French standards and may therefore not apply to your situation. Make sure to complement this reading by visiting the May US/UK app and consulting the healthcare professionals who are supporting you.
