Like Freshly Baked Bread: Here's Why Babies Smell So Damn Good

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Some parents describe the smell of a newborn baby as freshly baked bread — sweet and buttery — and delicious enough to wanna nom the little one.

Others describe the scent as milky, musky, or slightly powdery. It's a delicate fragrance with hints of warmth and freshness, yet has that addictive masam scent.

Babies are born with a thin layer of vernix caseosa, a waxy substance that protects their delicate skin in the womb. This vernix contains natural oils that have a faint, pleasant scent.

As newborns are exposed to the air, this layer gradually wears off, releasing these oils and contributing to their sweet smell.

Pheromones are chemical substances produced by the body that can affect behaviour and physiology in others of the same species.

Research suggests that babies emit pheromones that trigger nurturing and protective instincts in adults. These pheromones may play a role in the irresistible appeal of a baby's scent.

The human body is home to trillions of microbes, collectively known as the microbiome, which play a crucial role in various aspects of health.

Babies are born with a relatively simple microbiome that evolves and diversifies over time. Studies have shown that the microbial communities present on a baby's skin contribute to their unique scent, which may be perceived as pleasant to adults.

From an evolutionary perspective, the appealing scent of babies likely serves a vital purpose. It helps strengthen the bond between parent and child, encouraging caregiving behaviours such as cuddling, feeding, and nurturing.

This bond is essential for the survival and wellbeing of the infant, ensuring that their needs are met during the critical early stages of development.