<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> It has been suggested that this article be merged with Hydrogel dressing . (Discuss) Proposed since October 2017 . </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> It has been suggested that this article be merged with Hydrogel dressing . (Discuss) Proposed since October 2017 . </Td> </Tr> <P> A hydrocolloid dressing is an opaque or transparent dressing for wounds . A hydrocolloid dressing is biodegradeable, non-breathable, and adheres to the skin, so no separate taping is needed . </P> <P> The active surface of the dressing is coated with a cross-linked adhesive mass containing a dispersion of gelatin, pectin and carboxy - methylcellulose together with other polymers and adhesives forming a flexible wafer . In contact with wound exudate, the polysaccharides and other polymers absorb water and swell, forming a gel . The gel may be designed to drain, or to remain within the structure of the adhesive matrix . </P>

What is the purpose of a hydrocolloid dressing