Social media platforms have changed the way we are able to communicate and receive all types of information. Between Facebook, Instagram and now the powerhouse platform, TikTok, people have access to information at their fingertips. The app, TikTok, which was created in September 2016, has taken the internet by storm. The platform allows users to create, edit and post video content. It encourages creatives to find their niche content and beyond.
For one woman in Washington, TikTok gave her a platform and outlet to share her journey of motherhood. Shahnta Hoare from Silverdale, Washington, is a mom to four boys. The mom has created a niche profile for mothers and their postpartum experiences. Having had her fourth baby, Ozzy, shared in May 2022 how she would switch up her child’s care routine compared to her other three children. Hoare documented that she would not be bathing her newborn son for quite some time. Her reasoning? She wants to keep her baby’s skin in tip-top shape.
When a baby is born, a substance called vernix covers their skin or appears deep in their skin folds. This substance is a protective coating that forms on a baby’s skin in utero. The substance is known to be thick and greasy, full of fatty acids and proteins that act as nourishment to the baby’s skin and overall health. It can be beneficial to a baby’s gut bacteria, as well as fight off bad bacteria.
After Hoare announced she would leave this substance on her newborn son for as long as possible post-birth, the internet was up in arms. While some followers and users found this to be unhealthy or unsanitary, other mothers said they also did the exact same thing.
Be sure to reach the end of this article to see the full video 🙂
“He didn’t get wiped and he won’t get his first bath for like many more weeks,” Hoare shared on her TikTok.
“We actually don’t give baths for like the first month. Jackson had his in the hospital, I didn’t advocate for myself and unfortunately, the twins and Jackson got wiped off. But Ozzy did not get wiped of anything,” the mom shared with her followers.
“I know this may be gross to some but when it’s your own baby you’re like ‘this stuff is so good,'” she admitted.
Internet users had many things to say about her choice to keep her newborn baby unbathed for the first few weeks of his life.
“I couldn’t imagine anything worse…,” one TikTok user commented. Another person agreed with that sentiment. “I do not understand some mothers,” another internet user said.
However, this mom of four said she believed it to be great for her baby’s overall skin and health.
“Vernix is actually really good to keep on their skin, it’s actually super super moisturising — it’s almost a little oily. He had it in his neck creases, his ears, fingers, toes — it’s the best,” Hoare shared.
Many internet users agreed with Hoare too. “Some of you fail to realise that vernix was put there for a reason. Our babies are born with it because it is an added layer of protection,” one TikTok user said. Another person said: “I swear! The smell is insane. I was addicted to it. Didn’t bathe my babies until they were all a month old.”
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Hoare’s video has over 10 million views on TikTok and over one million likes. Over 4,000 comments can be seen on her video post too.
Do you agree with this mother of four? Regardless we hope that her baby Ozzy stays nice and healthy! If you found this article interesting — feel free to send it to other friends who will think the same!