Effectiveness Test of Wound Plasters in Supporting the Wound Healing Process

Some people who experience minor cuts, scrapes, or puncture wounds protect their injuries from infection by using wound dressings. These dressings are known to create a physical barrier against bacteria, germs, dust, dirt, and environmental contaminants. Beyond protection, wound dressings also help keep the wound moist to accelerate skin cell regeneration, and act as absorbents that soak up blood or wound exudate, keeping the area clean and dry. 

This article will explore the working mechanism of wound dressings in detail, as well as their benefits for the wound healing process.

• Why a Moist Environment Helps Wounds Heal Faster
• The Role of Active Ingredients in Modern Wound Dressings
• Why Wound Dressings Are Essential for Effective Wound Care

Why a Moist Environment Helps Wounds Heal Faster

Wound dressings not only cover the wound but also maintain a moist environment, absorb excess fluid, and shield the wound from germs and dust, thereby supporting the healing process. A moist environment is essential as it promotes faster skin cell growth and wound closure. Additionally, some types of dressings are “breathable,” allowing oxygen to enter while preventing the entry of dirt or bacteria. 

Materials like hydrocolloid or alginate can even transform into a gel when in contact with wound fluid, providing protection while preventing the dressing from sticking when removed. As a result, wound dressings not only offer comfort but also aid in faster skin recovery whether for minor injuries like abrasions or more serious wounds such as surgical incisions.

The Role of Active Ingredients in Modern Wound Dressings

In addition to providing protection, many modern wound dressings now contain active ingredients that can accelerate the healing process. For example, some dressings include natural substances such as honey, collagen, or chitosan (a compound derived from shrimp shells) that support the growth of new tissue. There are also dressings infused with antimicrobial agents like silver or iodine, which help prevent infection without the need for additional medication. 

Some dressings can even release drugs slowly and directly into the wound, such as antibiotics or vitamins. This is especially beneficial for hard-to-heal wounds, such as those experienced by people with diabetes. Thus, today’s wound dressings are more than just coverings, they actively assist the body in repairing skin tissue from within, gradually and more effectively, allowing wounds to heal more cleanly and safely.

Why Wound Dressings Are Essential for Effective Wound Care

Overall, the mechanism of wound dressings has proven to play a vital role in supporting the healing process of both minor and chronic wounds. Dressings do not merely act as physical barriers but also create an environment conducive to tissue regeneration by maintaining moisture, absorbing excess fluid, and protecting the wound from infection. Innovations in modern dressing materials have enabled additional functions such as drug delivery, antimicrobial activity, and bioactive components that stimulate skin cell regeneration and blood vessel formation. 

Furthermore, dressings with high absorbency and non-adherent properties reduce pain during dressing changes and accelerate tissue repair without disturbing the wound. This combination of protective and biological support functions makes wound dressings an essential part of effective, safe, and practical wound care. With advancements in material technology, wound dressings have become increasingly sophisticated medical tools that offer significant benefits to the wider public.

Want to ensure the quality of your plasters is truly safe and effective in supporting wound healing?

IML Research provides comprehensive laboratory testing services, including absorption testing, moisture testing, biocompatibility testing, and testing the effectiveness of active ingredients in medical plasters. Trust IML Research to ensure every plaster you produce meets the quality, safety, and performance standards required by the healthcare industry.

Author: Devira
Editor: Sabilla Reza

Reference : 

Ferraz, M. P. (2025). Wound Dressing Materials: Bridging material science and clinical practice. Applied Sciences, 15(4), 1725. https://doi.org/10.3390/app15041725.