When managing wounds like burns, skin grafts, or post-surgical incisions, choosing the right dressing is critical. Among the most widely used non-adherent dressings are Adaptic and Xeroform—each with specific strengths, properties, and clinical applications.
This article provides a doctor-informed breakdown of how Adaptic vs Xeroform compare in wound care, especially for burns and surgical wounds.
Top Key Takeaways
Adaptic is a non-adherent, mesh-based dressing ideal for wounds requiring drainage.
Xeroform is a petroleum-based gauze infused with a mild antiseptic and best for burns and donor sites.
Doctors recommend Adaptic for clean, draining surgical wounds.
Xeroform is preferred for partial-thickness burns and grafts where moisture retention is critical.
The best dressing depends on wound type, exudate level, and infection risk.
What Is Adaptic?
Adaptic is a cellulose acetate mesh dressing coated in a petroleum emulsion. It allows fluid to pass through to a secondary absorbent layer, keeping the wound moist without sticking to new tissue.
Ideal Uses:
Surgical incisions
Skin tears
Donor sites
Minor burns
Adaptic’s design minimizes trauma during dressing changes, making it a go-to for fragile wounds and patients with sensitive skin.
What Is Xeroform?
Xeroform is a petrolatum-impregnated gauze that contains 3% bismuth tribromophenate, a mild antiseptic agent. It helps maintain moisture and offers light antimicrobial protection.
Ideal Uses:
Partial-thickness burns
Graft and donor sites
Abrasions and superficial wounds
Because Xeroform is occlusive, it’s especially useful for wounds where moisture preservation and infection control are essential.
Adaptic vs Xeroform: Key Differences for Burn and Surgical Wound Care
Base Material:
Adaptic: Open-weave mesh
Xeroform: Gauze impregnated with petrolatum and antiseptic
Adaptic: Supports drainage and breathability
Xeroform: Occlusive, locks in moisture
Antibacterial Properties:
Adaptic: None
Xeroform: Mild antimicrobial effect
Best Use Cases:
Adaptic: Clean surgical wounds, where exudate control is needed
Xeroform: Burns and grafts needing moisture and infection control
Clinical Use: What Doctors Recommend
“In my surgical cases, I prefer Adaptic for clean wounds where drainage must be managed without adhesion. Xeroform is my go-to for burns and split-thickness grafts.”
“We use Adaptic when the goal is to reduce trauma during dressing changes. Xeroform, on the other hand, helps with granulation in partial-thickness burns.”
Real-World Wound Example
A post-surgical patient showed early signs of serosanguineous drainage—light pink, watery exudate considered normal in early healing stages. After applying Adaptic with a foam secondary layer, the drainage was well-managed, and the wound healed without irritation.
In contrast, a patient with a partial-thickness burn was treated with Xeroform, which retained moisture and protected the wound bed, speeding epithelialization while preventing bacterial growth.
How to Choose Between Adaptic and Xeroform
Choose Adaptic if:
The wound is draining and needs a breathable dressing
You want to minimize trauma during dressing changes
The area is prone to irritation or maceration
Choose Xeroform if:
You need moisture retention and antimicrobial benefits
You're treating superficial burns, donor/graft sites
The wound has little drainage but needs protection
Final Thoughts
Both Adaptic and Xeroform have their place in modern wound care. Adaptic is better suited for surgical wounds with drainage, while Xeroform excels at protecting and healing burns and donor sites. Selecting the right wound dressing can mean faster recovery, fewer complications, and greater comfort.
What’s Next
Evaluate the wound type and moisture level before choosing a dressing
Use Adaptic for clean wounds needing airflow and drainage
Use Xeroform for moist wounds or those needing mild antimicrobial care
Always consult a healthcare provider before switching dressings
Track wound progress with a daily care log and photo documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Xeroform on an infected wound?
Xeroform offers mild antimicrobial protection but is not a substitute for clinical-grade antibiotics.
Does Adaptic work for burns?
It can help with minor burns but may dry out unless paired with a moisture-retentive secondary dressing.
Which dressing is less painful to remove?
Both are non-adherent, but Adaptic’s open mesh often reduces trauma in sensitive wounds.
Are these dressings available over the counter?
Yes, but they should be used based on medical advice to avoid complications.
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