Hydrogel‐Based Smart Materials for Wound Healing and Sensing

ABSTRACT Recent advancements in hydrogel‐based flexible materials have revolutionized wound healing and monitoring strategies. These materials offer promising solutions for medical treatment and real‐time diagnostics. Their rich water content, biocompatibility, and tunable properties closely mimic the natural extracellular matrix, supporting wound regeneration. Unlike traditional wound healing materials, hydrogel‐based systems address critical issues such as material stability and toxicity while integrating advanced monitoring devices. This review highlights the latest innovations in hydrogel‐based wound healing materials. It focuses on flexibility, biocompatibility, and potential for integration with smart monitoring systems. The review covers design principles and fabrication techniques for hydrogel‐based nanofibers, elastomers, and conducting polymers. It also discusses the development of electronic skin and innovative wound dressings. In addition, the review explains how sensing capabilities, stimuli‐responsive functions, and antibacterial agents are incorporated into these materials. Finally, the article examines challenges and future directions in the field. It emphasizes the transformative potential of multifunctional hydrogel‐based materials for improving wound healing and continuous monitoring.