Vernix caseosa, also known as vernix, is the waxy or cheese-like white substance found coating the skin of newborn babies. Babies who are born past their due dates may not have much of this protective coating

Affectionately termed “baby frosting” by some, vernix can seem unsightly to new mommas who probably envision their newborn baby to be sparkling clean.

Following birth and after preliminary medical checks by the doctors to ensure baby is fine and healthy, the next step is to give baby a bath before handing him/her over to mommy.

However, there are some benefits of leaving baby’s vernix on a little longer and delaying your newborn’s first bath.

It is recommended to delay baby’s first bath for at least 48 hours or up to 5 days to ensure the vernix is fully absorbed.

BENEFITS OF VERNIX FOR MOMMY AND BABY

BOOSTS IMMUNITY

Vernix has many antibacterial properties and is one of the best ways to keep your newborn protected from germs and bacteria. This is even more crucial for babies born during a Caesarean.

FACILITATES MOMMY-BABY BONDING

The skin-on-skin contact doesn’t just improve bonding between mommy and baby, but the smell of the baby stimulates mommy’s body to produce dopamine, strengthening the bond.

IMPROVES BREASTFEEDING

With better skin-on-skin contact between mommy and baby, vernix helps your colostrum to flow more easily.

KEEPS YOUR NEWBORN’S FRAGILE SKIN MOISTURISED AND PROTECTED

Vernix is full of lipid-rich substances which act as a barrier cream for baby’s fragile skin, preventing moisture loss and keeping the delicate skin moisturised and supple, whilst also reducing the chances of having skin issues later on, such as dermatitis, eczema and so on.

Vernix is literally the best baby moisturiser in the world. It’s all-natural and made by your own body!

AIDS MOMMY’S RECOVERY PROCESS, ESP FOR VAGINAL BIRTHS

Vermix contains nutrients and antibacterial properties that promote perineal wound healing, which help the childbirth recovery process, following vaginal births.

REGULATES BABY’S BODY TEMPERATURE

For 9 months, your baby has been in the warm, cosy environment of the womb. Vernix helps to insulate your baby while helping his/her body gently adjust to the climate of the outside world, following childbirth.

It even contains Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps reduce baby’s stress levels following the birth process.

As you can see, God made no mistakes in His design of the human body.

Vernix is there for a purpose. Not just to facilitate a smoother delivery, but also for all the other benefits mentioned above, so as much as possible, delay your newborn’s first bath.

His skin and immune system will thank you for it.

Our Lady, model of perfect motherhood, pray for us.

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