Dressing compositions and methods

A method of preparing a cross-linked hydrogel composition for application to the skin, said method comprising:

• a. providing a polymer in solution,
• b. providing in a separate solution a cross-linker that forms reversible cross-links,
• c. administering both solutions concomitantly from at least one nozzle permitting mixing of the polymer and cross-linking solutions in order to provide rapid gelation of the reversibly cross-linked hydrogel at the site of administration.

A wound or ocular dressing kit, comprising

• a first component comprising a hydrophilic polymer having a sulfhydryl, thiol, or mercaptan moiety;
• a second component comprising a cross-linker capable of forming a reversible cross-linkages with the hydrophilic polymer,
• said first and second components being supplied as separate solutions and being mixed together during administration to a wound site such that a reversible cross-linked gel matrix forms as a wound dressing on the surface of the wound in less than about 30 minutes.