Skin Substitutes in Burn Management. A Practical Review

This review examines the diverse landscape of skin substitutes used in burn management, highlighting their classification based on composition—biological, synthetic, and bioengineered—and structural function—epidermal, dermal, and composite. Skin substitutes serve critical roles in restoring skin integrity, preventing infection, and promoting healing, especially when autologous grafts are limited. Recent advances, such as off-the-shelf decellularized matrices and 3D bioprinting, show promise for personalized and efficient skin regeneration. The review emphasizes that successful wound healing depends not only on the choice of skin substitute but also on complementary dressing strategies that maintain optimal moisture, prevent infection, and support graft integration. A tailored combination of suitable dressings (e.g., hydrocolloids, alginates, foams, hydrogels) enhances healing outcomes. Overall, an integrated approach leveraging advanced materials and dressing techniques is vital for optimal burn wound management and patient recovery.