Formulations of cross-linkable polymers, capable of forming non-toxic and biocompatible hydrogels in situ, containing at least one of doxycycline or minocycline. Methods of using the hydrogels for treating the skin or ocular tissues of mammals exposed to vesicant compounds such as sulfur mustard (SM), nitrogen mustard (NM) or half mustard (2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES)) are also disclosed.