Anti-Acne Treatment Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type of Acne (Inflammatory, Hormonal, Cystic, Postsurgical/Wound, Others), By Therapeutic Class (Retinoid, Antibiotic, Hormonal therapy, Combination therapy, Laser therapy, Others), By Route of Administration (Topical, Oral, Injectable) and By Region(North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, LATAM) Forecasts, 2024-2032

Anti-Acne Treatment Market Size and Trends

The global anti-acne treatment market size was valued at USD 10.08 billion in 2023. It is projected to reach from USD 10.53 billion in 2024 to USD 15.05 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.56% during the forecast period (2024–2032). 

In recent years, there has been a rise in the number of people suffering from acne, one of the most common skin diseases, ultimately boosting market expansion. There is also a growing awareness regarding acne treatment as people have become more conscious about appearance, augmenting market growth. Moreover, there has been a surge in the approval of new anti-acne treatment drugs to enhance treatment efficiency, which is, in turn, anticipated to create opportunities for market growth.

Acne is a prevalent skin disorder that arises when hair follicles become obstructed with sebum and deceased skin cells. It frequently causes the development of blackheads, whiteheads, and acne, and occasionally deeper lesions or nodules. Acne typically manifests on the face, chest, back, and shoulders because these areas have a higher concentration of sebaceous glands.

Anti-acne treatment encompasses various techniques and products specifically developed to combat and alleviate acne. Acne varies in severity, and treatment choices encompass over-the-counter topical creams, prescription drugs, and, in certain instances, medical procedures like laser therapy or chemical peels. Establishments such as dermatology clinics, med spas, beauty salons, and internet platforms provide services for consultation, diagnosis, prescription, and delivery of anti-acne products.

Top 3 key highlights

• Retinoid dominates the therapeutic class segment
• Topical dominates the route of the administration segment
• North America is the largest shareholder in the market

Anti-Acne Treatment Market Growth Factors

Increasing prevalence of acne

Acne is a prevalent dermatological condition that impacts around 9.4% of the global population in 2022. It ranks the eighth most widespread disease globally and ranks top among skin diseases. The prevalence of acne is highest among adolescents and young adults, with around 95% of individuals between the ages of 11 and 30 encountering acne at some stage in their life. Globally, around 80% of adolescents are affected by acne, with 20% of these individuals experiencing moderate to severe forms of the condition.

Furthermore, the prevalence of adult acne is currently believed to be 40% of the population, indicating a growing issue. While acne may not pose a direct threat to one's life, it often leads to significant psychosocial consequences. The incidence of acne exhibits regional, gender, ethnic, and lifestyle differences, with a tendency to be more prevalent in urban settings among females and individuals with oily skin. Moreover, the rising prevalence of acne can be related to multiple reasons, including genetic predisposition, hormonal fluctuations, environmental pollution, stress, dietary choices, pharmaceutical usage, and cosmetic application.

Growing awareness and demand for anti-acne products

Acne can significantly impact the overall quality of life and psychological state of those affected, resulting in diminished self-assurance, societal discrimination, and mental distress. Consequently, many individuals seek anti-acne products and services to improve their physical appearance and boost their self-confidence.

Furthermore, the increasing awareness and desire for anti-acne products are driven by the accessibility of knowledge and education regarding acne and its treatment, the impact of social media and influential figures, the growing consumer inclination towards natural and organic components, and the expanding variety and personalization of products. These factors enhance the market's growth.

Market Restraining Factors

Side effects and complications of anti-acne products

Anti-acne products, particularly those that contain powerful chemicals or drugs, can have adverse effects and consequences, including skin irritation, dryness, peeling, redness, burning, itching, allergic responses, sensitivity to sunlight, and potential harm to developing fetuses. The occurrence of these adverse reactions may deter or restrict the utilization of anti-acne products, particularly among individuals who are sensitive or pregnant.

Furthermore, several anti-acne products have the potential to combine with other medications or substances, leading to negative effects or decreased effectiveness. Antibiotics can diminish the efficacy of oral contraceptives, and isotretinoin can heighten the likelihood of depression or suicide. Hence, the adverse effects and complexities of anti-acne solutions can impede the expansion of the industry and present difficulties for producers and users.

Market Opportunities

Regulatory support

The presence of favorable regulatory conditions that streamline the approval and market entry of novel anti-acne medications is projected to generate opportunities for market expansion. For instance, in October 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Cabtreo, previously referred to as IDP-126, a medication containing clindamycin 1.2%, adapalene 0.15%, and benzoyl peroxide 3.1%, for the treating acne vulgaris in patients aged 12 years and above. The FDA has approved the combination of clindamycin phosphate 1.2%, benzoyl peroxide 3.1%, and adapalene gel 0.15% as a fixed-dose, triple-combination treatment for acne. This is the first time the FDA has approved such a drug.

• Additionally, in June 2022, Zydus Lifesciences obtained final permission from the US FDA agency to commercially distribute Adapalene with Benzoyl Peroxide Topical Gel, 0.3%/2.5%. The gel, which combines Adapalene (a retinoid) and Benzoyl Peroxide (an antibiotic and skin-peeling agent), reduces the quantity and intensity of acne pimples. In this gel, Adapalene functions by modulating cell growth and reducing edema and inflammation. Moreover, Benzoyl Peroxide operates by diminishing the population of acne-causing bacteria and inducing skin dryness and exfoliation.

Regional Insights

North america dominates the global market

North America is the most significant global anti-acne treatment market shareholder and is expected to expand substantially during the forecast period. The market is projected to be dominated by North America due to its high prevalence of acne, strong consumer awareness and demand for anti-acne treatments, substantial disposable income and expenditure on cosmetics, extensive innovation and development of new products, and a well-established distribution network. As per the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the predominant skin disorder in the United States, impacting over 50 million Americans every year. The annual cost of acne for Americans exceeds USD 4 billion. Moreover, regulatory bodies continuously develop drugs that can be introduced. For example, in 2019, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a 4% minocycline topical foam called Amzeeq, developed by Foamix Pharmaceuticals. This foam is used to treat non-nodular, moderate to severe acne vulgaris inflammatory lesions in adults and children nine years of age and older. This is the initial topical minocycline formulation that the FDA has authorized.

Furthermore, market participants have been increasingly conducting research and development operations to evaluate the effectiveness of anti-acne drugs. For instance, in October 2022, Almirall, LLC, a worldwide biopharmaceutical firm specializing in skin health, unveiled the privately funded PROSES trial at the upcoming Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference® in Las Vegas, Nevada. During the 12-week trial, patients suffering from moderate to severe non-nodular acne vulgaris experienced a notable enhancement in several health-related quality of life indicators while undergoing therapy with sarecycline. As a result, all of these variables contribute to the expansion of the regional market.

Asia-pacific: fastest growing region with the highest cagr

Asia-Pacific is projected to witness the highest CAGR. This is due to its substantial and expanding population of young and urban consumers, increasing awareness and demand for anti-acne products, increased disposable income and expenditure on cosmetics, rapid innovation, and the introduction of new products. For instance, in July 2022, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals introduced MINYM, India's inaugural topical Minocycline 4% Gel, designed to treat moderate to severe acne. Minocycline is a highly effective antibacterial gel that has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Furthermore, it exhibits the most minimal MIC90 (the lowest concentration at which it effectively inhibits the visible growth of 90% of bacterial isolates) compared to other topical antibacterial formulations now accessible.

Furthermore, there has been an increase in the number of clinical trials focused on developing innovative drugs for treating acne. For instance, in 2023, the University of South Australia (UniSA) undertook a study to assess the efficacy of a new antibacterial drug called Narasin. The molecule was encapsulated in minuscule nanoparticles, 1000 times smaller than a single strand of human hair. These nanoparticles were then applied in a gel form to target acne regions. The antibiotic, often utilized in livestock, has shown efficacy against treatment-resistant acne bacteria. When administered through nanocarriers, it achieved a 100-fold enhancement in absorption compared to oral ingestion with water. Therefore, the factors above contribute to the market's growth.

Anti-Acne Treatment Market Segmentation Analysis

By type of acne

The market is bifurcated into inflammatory, hormonal, cystic, postsurgical/wound, and others. Hormonal acne is a form of acne that is mostly affected by changes in hormone levels within the body. It frequently happens throughout the stage of adolescence, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and occasionally in diseases such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Fluctuations in hormones can result in an augmented sebum secretion by the sebaceous glands, obstructing pores and creating a favorable environment for the proliferation of bacteria that cause acne.

By therapeutic class

The market is segmented into retinoid, antibiotic, hormonal therapy, combination therapy, laser therapy, and others. The retinoid segment dominates the global market. Retinoids are a group of chemicals that are either generated from vitamin A or chemically similar to it. They are vital in numerous biological processes, such as controlling cell development and differentiation. Retinoids are frequently employed in dermatology due to their impact on skin well-being. They are recognized for stimulating skin regeneration and enhancing fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

Moreover, retinoids attach to specific receptors in the skin cells, affecting cell behavior and stimulating cell turnover. This product removes blockage in the pores, promotes collagen generation, and diminishes excessive pigmentation. Retinoid is anticipated to dominate the market as the leading innovator, thanks to their primary therapeutic effects and pending approvals for upcoming medicines.

By route of administration

The market is divided into oral, injectable, and topical. The topical segment owns the highest market share. This is primarily due to its direct application to the affected area, minimal systemic adverse effects, and enhanced convenience and accessibility. Over the past few decades, a growing desire for minimally invasive acne treatment techniques has been growing. Many physicians frequently opt for topical drugs as the preferred method of treating acne due to their convenient accessibility and superior efficacy with few negative side effects. Various topical treatments are available, including antibiotic creams and gels, vitamin A analog solutions or lotions, Benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid creams, gels, and lotions.

Recent Developments

• September 2023- Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd entered into distribution and license agreements with Cosmo Pharmaceuticals NV for the acne treatment ointment Winlevi, specifically targeting the European and South African markets. The agreements were struck between Glenmark Specialty SA, a subsidiary of the corporation, and Cosmo Pharmaceuticals NV, as stated by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals.
• June 2023- Zydus Lifesciences announced that it obtained final approval from the US health agency for its generic antibiotic Minocycline Hydrochloride extended-release tablets, which are prescribed for treating moderate to severe acne.