Types of thin dressings from waterproof to also breathable
Low adherent dressings (or minimally sticking to the wound bed) consist of 3 layers. These can be slightly different from brand to brand. Some are self adhesive and those without can be cut and folded to shape. Hydrocolloids are also thin but stop water getting through the dressing from the outside and the inside.
Pre cut hydrocolloids
Self Adhesive thin Dressings/
Hydrocolloids larger sizes
These pre-packaged and shaped hydrocolloid dressing are for open blisters and minor cuts and sores with minimal exudate (weeping). these are mostly sold in chemists.
Sores with yellow tissue can be dissolved with this dressing and are semi waterproof if not applied around a curve. However, there are products that are shaped and can go around a curve, and these that are thin and small can curl around fingers.
DO NOT use this on diabetic feet, infection or those with poor blood flow or lots of fluid weeping out.
Hydrocolloid patches are popular for pimples or acne on faces.
There are many brands pre cut breathable dressings backed with adhesive tape. They are similar in absorption except the adhesive backing can vary to from waterproof to fabric.
These are for dry wounds, gangrene, dry wounds, protection, lightly weeping wounds or cuts.
Change 1-2 days, depending whether you can see staining through the dressing.
They are fairly cheap to buy and come in waterproof or breathable flexible adhesive backings.
Comfeel waterproof on flat areas of skin. It is breathable. Absorbs low to moderate fluid and gets rid of yellow tissue. Still may need to tape edges. Not for infected wounds. Some brands are sold in chemist and a lot are through hospital, wound centres and doctors as these brand names are more expensive.
Non Adhesive Thin Dressing
Low adherent dressings (or minimally sticking to the wound bed) consist of 3 layers. These can be slightly different from brand to brand, but consist of a low adherent layer, a middle more absorbent cotton/polyester layer and an outer layer which may also have some water repelling properties. e.g. Melolin, sentry mediam, aeropad, leukomed,sorba, multigate interpose and other non brand dressings. Look for 3 layers with the absorbant cotton inbetween. Some products may be a little thicker than the others.
