The vernix caseosa is a protective layer on the baby’s skin. It is white in color and has a texture similar to that of soft cheese.
Fetal sebum develops while the baby is still in the womb, and pieces of it remain attached to the baby’s skin after birth.As the time of delivery approaches, the amount of fetal sebum decreases. It is normal for some amount of vernix caseosa to be found on the baby even after delivery.
Premature babies may have even more vernix caseosa, while babies born later may have none at all.The benefits of fetal sebum extend beyond pregnancy.
Keeping the vernix caseosa on the baby’s skin as much as possible is beneficial during and after birth. Here are some benefits of fetal sebum:
