Desquamation in a newborn is a normal finding, especially in infants born late. Which description best fits this finding?

• A. In term infants
• B. In preterm infants
• C. In all infants
• D. In babies born late

Answer: (D)

Desquamation, or peeling of the newborn’s skin, is a normal finding as the skin adjusts to life outside the uterus. It’s most noticeable in babies born late-term or post-term because their skin is more mature and has less protective vernix; with less vernix, the outer epidermal layer can shed and appear dry for a short period after birth. This usually shows up within the first few days and resolves within a week or two with gentle skin care. It isn’t a sign of illness. While some peeling can occur in term infants, the description that fits best here is peeling that’s more common in babies born late.