Vernix caseosa in neonatal adaptation.
OBJECTIVE
To characterize vernix caseosa in newborn infants with respect to factors that influence vernix distribution on the skin surface, vernix effects on thermal stability, skin hydration, acid mantle development, and vernix antioxidant properties.


METHODS
Vernix distribution was determined for 430 infants. Thermal stability was assessed in parallel groups following vernix retention (n=66) and removal (n=64). The effects of vernix retention on skin hydration, pH, erythema, and dryness/scaling were determined. Samples were analyzed for vitamin E before and after UV exposure.


RESULTS
Vernix distribution depended upon gestational age, delivery mode, gender, race, and meconium exposure. Retention had no effect on axillary temperatures. Skin hydration was significantly higher for vernix-retained skin. Skin pH and erythema were significantly lower with retention. Vitamin E levels were decreased by ultraviolet radiation.


CONCLUSIONS
Vernix is a naturally occurring barrier cream with multiple salubrious effects, which support its retention on the skin surface at birth.
Visscher
Marty O
MO
The Skin Sciences Institute, Division of Neonatology, Center for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
Narendran
Vivek
V
Pickens
William L
WL
LaRuffa
Angela A
AA
Meinzen-Derr
Jareen
J
Allen
Kathleen
K
Hoath
Steven B
SB
D000064:Acclimatization / Q000502:physiology*; D001833:Body Temperature Regulation / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D012879:Skin Physiological Phenomena; D013499:Surface Properties; D014708:Vernix Caseosa / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology* / Q000528:radiation effects; D014810:Vitamin E / Q000032:analysis
D014810:Vitamin E