Hydrocolloid dressing is a special kind of wound dressing used in the treatment of mildly exuding wounds, like minor burns or bed sores. These dressings are waterproof, and unlike simpler dressings, they provide a moist and insulating environment to promote wound healing.

Hydrocolloid dressings have an inner layer of gel-forming agents called hydrocolloid particles, which include carboxymethylcellulose, gelatin, and pectin. This inner layer promotes wound healing by absorbing exudate. The outside layer is waterproof and made of polyurethane foam or film, which shields the wound from bacteria, foreign bodies, and debris.