16/11/2021
Did anyone else have a baby covered in vernix?!
Vernix [also known as Vernix Caseosa] is a white, thick, sticky and wax-like substance. Some bubs are born covered in vernix [which is why we call it birthday frosting], while others have a very small amount, and some have none at all.
Here's what you need to know about it:
ππ»It's nature's way of protecting bub's skin from being in amniotic fluid constantly while in a mama's tummy.
ππ»It's made up of 81% water, 9% lipids and 10% proteins.
ππ»Bubs who are born after 40 weeks tend to have the least amount of vernix.
ππ»It's a great moisturiser [so avoid wiping it off]. It will naturally absorb into the skin on its own over the first few days of life. You might even find it under the arms, in the skin folds in bub's thighs or other little creases for a little while after birth.
ππ»Human bubs are said to be the only ones who develop vernix.
ππ»If bub has had meconium liquor, their vernix might appear to have a green or yellow tinge.
ππ»Part of the reason Midwives recommend delaying the first bath is to avoid washing off vernix.
ππ» It contains anti-infective and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as antioxidants.
ππ»It helps bub's skin adapt to life outside of a mama's tummy in the first week of life if not wiped off.
ππ»You'll probably find it on your clothes, arms or hands after holding bub because it's soo sticky.
Tag your parenting pals in this post and let me know below; was your bub covered in birthday frosting, like a cupcake, or did they have no vernix at all? π§
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