Hydrocolloid dressings were first used in wound management in the 1960s. They provide the optimal environment for wound healing, i.e. a moist environment, constant wound temperature and infrequent dressing changes, and can be used on wounds in various stages of healing. As a result they are a popular treatment option for health professionals in both the community and hospital settings. This article describes the properties of Hydrocoll — a new and exciting range of hydrocolloid dressings from Paul Hartmann Ltd — which was launched in the UK in January 1998 and became available on the Drug Tariff in June 1998.