What Is Lanugo?
Lanugo is soft, fine hair that typically appears on the skin of fetuses during the second trimester of pregnancy. This hair can be seen covering the entire body, often giving newborns a fuzzy appearance. Lanugo serves as a natural insulation layer and protection for the baby, helping to maintain body temperature and offering a degree of cushioning during the development process.
In most cases, lanugo begins to shed as the fetus approaches the third trimester, and by the time of birth, many babies have lost much of this fine hair. However, some infants may still have patches of lanugo at birth, particularly those born prematurely. The presence of lanugo can vary from one baby to another, and it is generally considered a normal part of the developmental process.
The primary purpose of lanugo is to provide warmth and protection to the fetus as it develops in the womb. This soft hair helps to regulate body temperature, creating a layer of insulation that is especially important during the later stages of pregnancy. Additionally, lanugo plays a role in the attachment of vernix caseosa, a waxy substance that covers and protects the skin of the fetus.
Vernix caseosa is essential for shielding the baby’s skin from the amniotic fluid and preventing it from becoming too wrinkled. Lanugo helps to hold this protective substance against the skin, ensuring that the infant remains protected during development. Once the baby is born, the lanugo usually falls out naturally within a few weeks, often leaving the baby with smooth skin.
What Happens if I Remove My Baby’s Lanugo?
Removing lanugo from your baby’s skin is not recommended, as it serves a protective role in the womb. The hair naturally sheds within the first few weeks after birth. Premature removal can irritate your baby’s sensitive skin and cause discomfort.
What if Lanugo Appears in Older Children or Adults?
Lanugo may appear in older children or adults as a result of certain health conditions, such as malnutrition, anorexia, or hormonal imbalances. This fine hair grows when the body is under stress, often due to weight loss or lack of body fat, as a protective mechanism. If this occurs, it’s important to seek medical advice to address the underlying causes.
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