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Reviewed by Christine Kijek, Registered Colorectal Nurse, on April 19, 2023
Hydrocolloids are known to have a unique design with an adhesive compound containing gel-forming agents like gelatin or sodium carboxymethylcellulose. This adhesive is laminated on a film or foam made from polyurethane, making the dressing absorbent, flexible, waterproof, and self-adherent.
Hydrocolloid wound dressings provide insulation and a moist wound environment conducive to healing. In addition, they use the moisture and enzymes of the body to hydrate the wound bed for faster healing.
Hydrocolloids are a type of wound dressing containing pectin, gelatin, and carboxymethylcellulose. When the hydrocolloid bandage is applied to the wound bed, the hydrophilic particles absorb the wound drainage and swell up. The swollen particles then liquefy and convert into a gel, enhancing the autolytic debridement. Subsequently, hydrocolloid dressings are impermeable to oxygen, water vapor, and carbon dioxide.
They are available in paste, gel, or sheet form and may be used as a primary or a secondary dressing. The gel or paste dressing needs a secondary dressing for proper security. When used as a secondary dressing, the wound surface should be in contact with alginate or gelling cellulose fiber.
Hydrocolloid bandages are best suitable for treating non-infected and minimal exudate wounds, such as minor burns or pressure ulcers, also known as bed sores. Since these are flexible, difficult areas, such as elbows, heels, or knees can be dressed with hydrocolloids.
Some of the conditions that warrant the use of hydrocolloidal dressings are -
Hydrocolloid bandages should not be used on -
HPFY offers an extensive collection of hydrocolloid dressings that include gel, paste, or sheet and are transparent, absorbent, anti-microbial, adherent, or non-adherent.
Hydrocolloid bandages last up to three to seven days. Change the dressing if it starts to peel off from the edges. Since hydrocolloids keep the wound moist and protected, they need not be changed daily.
You can keep the bandage on blisters for 3-5 days. These are waterproof, therefore, need to be removed for showering.
Yes, many wound dressings, such as the Tegaderm Hydrocolloid Dressings, are impervious to bacteria and usually waterproof, meaning that patients can shower and even swim normally without concern. Moreover, different types of hydrocolloid dressings are proven to lower the infection risk drastically.
A hydrocolloid patch is safe to use on acne, scab, or pimple. The moist environment of the hydrocolloid coating does not let it be dry, irritated, or itchy. Since hydrocolloid patches do not let you touch the wound constantly, it helps in quicker healing.
Yes. A cold sore or fever blister is a red, weepy sore that pops up and may feel uncomfortable. Hydrocolloid patches are effective in keeping the cold sore hidden and treating the lesion. It is occlusive, absorbent, and transparent, which makes it an ideal and viable option for treating cold sores.
We have established that hydrocolloids have many different advantages attached to them, so now it is time to answer where you can buy hydrocolloid bandages, patches, and more. Health Products For You offers a wide product range from top-selling hydrocolloid dressing brands like DuoDERM, Comfeel, Exuderm, Restore, etc.
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Anushree Kothari, has been a Health Products For You contributor since 2016. She has a deep interest in human physiology and wellness and possess a passion and talent for guiding others through ...
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