Review Article: The biology of vernix caseosa

• Published in: International journal of cosmetic science 2006-10, Vol.28 (5), p.319-333
• Main Authors: Hoath, S B, Pickens, W L, Visscher, MO
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0142-5463; 1467-2494
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-2494.2006.00338.x

Synopsis: The biology and physical properties of the uniquely human skin cream 'vernix caseosa' are discussed. This material coats the foetal skin surface during the last trimester of gestation and provides multiple beneficial functions for the foetus and newborn infant. Vernix has a complex structure similar to stratum corneum but lacks lipid lamellae and is more plastic due to the absence of desmosomal constraints. In utero, vernix is made in part by foetal sebaceous glands, interacts with pulmonary surfactant, detaches into the amniotic fluid, and is swallowed by the foetus. At the time of birth, vernix has a remarkably constant water content approximating 80%. Postnatally, vernix is simultaneously a cleanser, a moisturizer, an anti-infective, and an anti-oxidant. Vernix facilitates acid mantle development and supports normal bacterial colonization. Its hydrated cellular structure and unusual lipid composition provide a 'best' solution for the needs of the foetus and newborn, not least of which is the attraction of caregivers. Vernix is an important natural biomaterial of potential interest to cosmetic scientists, and other disciplines involved in product development and therapies targeting the complex interface between the stratum corneum and a changing terrestrial environment.Original Abstract: La biologie et les proprietes physiques de la creme de peau exclusivement humaine 'Vernix caseosa ' sont discutees. Ce materiau couvre la surface de la peau foetale pendant le dernier trimestre de gestation et remplit des fonctions avantageuses multiples pour le foetus et le nouveau-ne. Le Vernix a une structure complexe semblable au stratum corneum, mais manque de lamelles lipidiques et est plus plastique en raison de l'absence de contraintes desmosomales. In utero, le Vernix est constitue en partie par des glandes sebacees foetales, il interagit avec le surfactant pulmonaire, il se detache dans le liquide amniotique et est avale par le foetus. Au moment de la naissance, le Vernix a une teneur remarquablement constante en eau de l'ordre de 80%. Apres la naissance, le Vernix devient simultanement un produit de lavage, un produit hydratant, un anti-infectieux et un anti-oxydant. Le Vernix facilite le developpement du manteau acide et soutient la colonisation bacterienne normale. Sa structure cellulaire hydratee et sa composition en lipide inhabituelle en font 'une des meilleures ' solutions pour les besoins du foetus et du nouveau-ne, a laquelle le personnel soi