The objective of wound healing is to create an environment that minimizes infection, provides the optimal balance of moisture, and facilitates re-epithelialization. In the past, most wound dressings were designed to protect the wound, assist with managing exudate, or provide hydration. Recent advances in wound healing include the introduction of biologic wound products and enhancements in human and synthetic skin substitutes. Skin substitutes aid in wound closure more rapidly by replacing functions of the skin. Biologic agents promote wound closure by inducing natural biochemical processes associated with wound healing. The result is dermal regeneration and re-epithelialization instead of scar tissue formation. It is important for wound care specialist to be familiar with the various biologic and skin substitute agents available and to understand their role in providing either temporary or permanent solutions for wound closure.