Dermal Fibrosis and the Current Scope of Hydrogel Strategies for Scarless Wound Healing

Dermal fibrosis poses challenges in wound healing, affecting skin appearance and function. Hydrogels, due to their extracellular matrix-mimicking properties, are promising for scarless wound regeneration. This review discusses hydrogel strategies to regulate myofibroblast differentiation and control the wound microenvironment, highlighting their role in reducing dermal fibrosis. It covers various hydrogel types, such as injectable, cryo-gels, and spray-on hydrogels, which can promote scarless healing and enhance skin regeneration. Despite their potential, few clinical trials exist due to regulatory challenges. The document emphasizes the need for further research into hydrogel strategies to improve wound healing outcomes and minimize scarring.