Hydrocolloid dressings are widely used in the management of wounds, including those at risk of bacterial infection. The scientific rationale for their use centers on their ability to create a moist, occlusive environment that promotes autolytic debridement and supports wound healing. Several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have shown that hydrocolloid dressings can help reduce the risk of infection compared to traditional gauze dressings, largely by providing a barrier to external contaminants and maintaining optimal moisture levels, which can accelerate the healing process.

However, hydrocolloid dressings are not inherently antimicrobial and are not specifically designed to treat active, severe bacterial infections. Their role is more supportive—by protecting the wound from secondary infection and minimizing exposure to bacteria. Some in vitro studies suggest that the acidic environment underneath hydrocolloid dressings may mildly inhibit bacterial growth, but this effect is limited and not a substitute for topical or systemic antibiotics when an infection is present.

Clinical guidelines, such as those from the Wound Healing Society and other expert panels, endorse hydrocolloid dressings for managing non-infected wounds and for preventing infection in clean wounds. In cases of established or spreading infection, hydrocolloids are generally not recommended as the primary treatment. Overall, there is robust scientific evidence supporting their use in infection prevention, but limited evidence for their effectiveness in directly treating established bacterial infections.