Hydrocolloids are occlusive or semiocclusive dressings composed of such materials as gelatin, pectin and carboxymethylcellulose. The composition of the wound contact layer may differ considerably among dressings. These dressings provide a moist healing environment that allows clean wounds to granulate and necrotic wounds to debride autolytically. Hydrocolloids are manufactured in various shapes, sizes, adhesive properties and forms, including wafers, pastes and powders.