Don't wash that baby! study tests if keeping vernix on prevents eczema

NCT ID NCT07333378

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether leaving the white, creamy coating (vernix caseosa) on a newborn's skin for at least 24 hours after birth can prevent eczema (atopic dermatitis) during the first year of life. Over 1,300 mother-infant pairs in Chile will be randomly assigned to either keep the vernix on or have it washed off as usual. Researchers will track how many babies develop eczema and measure skin health and microbiome differences.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

vernix caseosa (the natural white coating on newborns)

What this could lead to

If it works, this simple, no-cost change in newborn care could reduce eczema risk in infants worldwide.

What could go wrong

This is a single study in Chile; results may not apply everywhere. The intervention is subtle, so the effect may be small or hard to detect.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cellulitis Eczema staphylococcal infection atopic eczema prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Clínica San Carlos de Apoquindo

    Las Condes, RM, Chile

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Hospital Clínico Universidad Católica

    Santiago, RM, Chile

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••