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Acne Treatment Market Research Report Information by Acne Type (Moderate, Mild, Moderate to Severe), Treatment (Medication, Therapeutic Devices), Drug Type (OTC, Prescription), Route of Administration (Topical, Oral, Injectable), End User (Hospitals & Clinics, Specialty Centers) and Region (Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World) - Forecast till 2032


ID: MRFR/HC/4220-CR | 153 Pages | Author: Rahul Gotadki| August 2021

Acne Treatment Market Overview


The acne treatment market size was valued at USD 9.2 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow from USD 9.6 billion in 2022 to USD 14.44 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6% during the forecast period (2023 - 2032). Acne treatment involves the administration of several forms of medications and ointments to lighten the tone of affected areas. A balanced diet is also considered a key factor for acne treatment, and this factor has played a major role in the growth of the acne treatment market. Moreover, the rising need for improved medications for acne treatment has brought in voluminous investments in the acne treatment market.


Factors such as the increasing prevalence of acne vulgaris condition in teenagers and adults, rising sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy food habits, and growing demand for minimally invasive cosmetic treatment procedures have boosted the demand and propelled the market growth. However, safety issues regarding the products being applied for acne treatment are posing hurdles to the market growth.


COVID-19 Analysis


WHO declared COVID-19 a pandemic in March 2020, owing to the surging outbreaks in several countries across the globe. A public health emergency was declared, and measures were circulated to prevent the spread of the virus. Currently, the quick spread of COVID-19 is having a pervasive impact across different industries and markets. COVID-19 has pushed healthcare companies to emulate several business models other than the traditional ones. The changing needs have highlighted the importance of rapid movement in the research and manufacturing of several medical supplies that are of utmost importance in times of such crisis.


Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, a restructuring of the dermatologic practices is needed. In Bulgaria, several dermatologic wards have been transformed into “covidaria,” using the pandemic-designated hospital structure for the treatment and isolation of patients with a COVID-19 infection. A great number of private dermatology practices have temporarily closed doors. In addition, the scientific communication between dermatologists has been hindered by the cancellation of scientific meetings and academic sessions.


The afflicted areas are treated with various medications and creams to lighten the complexion as a component of the acne treatment process. When dead skin cells and oil clog hair follicles, acne, a skin ailment, results. Although it affects people of various ages, it is most common in teenagers. The most frequently given medications are retinoids, antibiotics, and retinoid-like substances. In particular, the spike in androgen levels throughout puberty causes oil glands under the skin to enlarge, contributing to the rising frequency of acne vulgaris disorders in teenagers and adults. These elements are essential to the market expansion that would promote market growth. The illness is becoming more prevalent among adults and teenagers, which has drawn the attention of manufacturers, thereby boosting the demand for pharmaceuticals.


Pharmacological development aims to treat acne as successfully and safely as possible. The rising prevalence of skin issues is one of the main factors boosting consumer interest in the goods internationally over the anticipated period. Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is another crucial component of treating acne; therefore, the market for acne remedies has increased dramatically. Much money has also been spent on acne treatments due to the rising need for more effective medications. Due to the introduction of several therapy items, including isotretinoids, retinoids, and antibiotics orally and topical forms, the general public is becoming more aware of acne medications and readily available treatment options. As a result, increasing patient awareness is predicted. As teenagers increase and testosterone levels rise during puberty, more people are being treated for acne due to the condition's emergence. As societal norms change and acne vulgaris conditions become more common, the market for acne treatments is positively impacted.


The medicated acne spot treatment Kiehl's NEW Truly Focused Acne-Clearing Solution creates an imperceptible "liquid patch" over the affected area. This ground-breaking innovation offers a breathable seal that lessens post-acne marks in 4 weeks, pimple size in 24 hours, and pimple color in 2 hours. The patch also guards against external allergens like dirt, grease, and makeup, preventing contamination and the temptation to pick at the wound and promoting quick healing.


Acne Treatment Market Trends


Market Drivers

  • Increasing prevalence of acne vulgaris


Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease affecting approximately 9.4% of the world’s population, with the highest prevalence in adolescents. It affects over 90% of males and 80% of females in all ethnic groups. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, acne is the most common skin condition in the US, affecting 50 million Americans annually. It further stated that approximately 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24 experience minor acne. In India, the prevalence data from a dermatology clinic in a teaching hospital in Varanasi reported acne in 50.6% of boys and 38.13% of girls in the age group 12-17. According to the Acne and Rosacea Society of Canada in 2016, acne affected ~90% of the teens in Canada. Moreover, it was estimated that ~5 million people within the region have acne. Furthermore, according to the Australian Journal of General Practice published by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, acne is considered universal among teenagers, with a prevalence of 93.3% in people aged 16–18 years in Australia. In addition, various other studies have demonstrated that the prevalence of acne was reported to be 85% in people aged 12–24 years and 64% and 43% in those aged 20–29 years and 30–39 years, respectively. Additionally, rising cosmetic expenditures and increasing awareness of the diseaseamong the populationhaveaugmented the acne treatment market growth.


Abnormal hormone production is reportedly a key causative factor. Once there is a rise in the androgen (estrogen, in women) levels during puberty, it triggers the onset of this condition by enlarging oil glands under the skin. This factor further results in excessive sebum production, which breaks down cell walls in pores leading to bacterial invasion. Moreover, other studies have reported that the risk of developing acne increases due to various factors such as genetic causes, emotional stress, menstruation, hot and humid climate, and greasy cosmetics.



  • Increasing sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy food habits

  • High influence of social media and brand endorsements


Market Restraints

  • Safety Issues regarding the products


Side effects of acne treatments vary depending on the method you choose and the strength of the medication. For topical acne drugs, the most common side effects are skin dryness and irritation. The potential side effects of oral medications can be more serious. Antibiotics can upset the stomach or make patients dizzy and lightheaded. Moreover, oral isotretinoin can cause severe side effects, especially if the patient becomes pregnant while taking it. Severe birth defects have been reported in babies whose mothers took isotretinoin during pregnancy. The medication can also increase the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts and affect cholesterol levels and liver function. The safety issues regarding acne treatment products are expected to hamper the market growth

  • Failure of pivotal clinical trials for key candidates


Market Opportunities

  • Increasing awareness about current and upcoming acne treatment


Globally, the demand for minimally invasive cosmetic treatment procedures is increasing significantly. Dermatologists prefer to treat skin diseases using topical applications or less invasive procedures rather than surgical methods. More informed decision-making, better patient-physician relationships, and well-documented procedures are leading to increasing demand for treatments pertaining to face and skin-related problems. This has been driving the adoption of various, less painful aesthetic combination therapy procedures. Value Chain Analysis The value chain analysis for the acne treatment market comprises of five major components that start with the research & product development, followed by manufacturing the products, distribution, sales, and post-sales services.The key market players focus on incorporating innovations in their current techniques to keep any discrepancies at bay.

Acne Treatment Market Segment Insights


The acne treatment market has been divided based on acne type, treatment, drug type, route of administration, and end user.

Acne Treatment Type Insights


On the basis of acne type, has been segmented into moderate acne, mild acne, moderate to severe acne. The moderate acne segment held the largest share of 43.72%in 2019 and is anticipated to be the fastest market.


Widespread whiteheads and blackheads, with many papules than mild acne defined as moderate acne. Severe acne is said to occur when there is a high number of large, painful papules, pustules, and nodules or cysts. The rise in the prevalence of acne and increase in concern about facial skincare are driving the growth of the acne treatment market.


Acne Treatment Treatment Type Insights


Based on treatment, the acne treatment market is segmented into medication and therapeutic devices. Medication held the largest market share of 86.6%in 2019, whereas the therapeutic devices segment is expected to exhibita CAGR of 4.52% during the forecast period of 2022 to 2030.



  • Medication


Acne medications work by reducing oil production and swelling or by treating bacterial infections. The recent approval of newer medication for acne treatment is driving the growth of this segment. In August 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Italy-based CassiopeaSpA’sWinlevi (clascoterone cream 1%) to treat acne. Similarly, in December 2019, The US FDA awarded a new drug application for tazarotene (ARAZLO), a 0.045% developed by Bausch Health Companies Inc. for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in patients nine years of age and older.



  • Therapeutic Devices


The acne treatment market, based on treatment for therapeutic devices,is segmented into laser treatment, microdermabrasion. Technological advancement in therapeutic devices for acne treatment is driving the growth of this sector.Laser treatment for acne scars aims to minimize the appearance of scars from old acne outbreaks. This treatment therapy works by providing continuous light on the dermis layer of skin to break up scar tissue and encourages healthy skin cells to grow and replace the scar tissue.


Acne Treatment Drug Type Insights


The acne treatment market, on the basis of drug type, has been segmented into OTC and prescription. The OTC segment accounted for a larger market share in 2019 owing to frequent purchases,mostly by the population with mild acne.



  • OTC:


Over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatments often contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and sulfur. These medications are available in various forms, like oral medication and topical medication. OTC drugs are mostly used by the population with mild acne. With the prevalence of mild acne, there is a high demand for OTC medicine. This is likely to help the market to grow at a high rate during the forecast period.



  • Prescription:


Prescription medication for acne treatment involves the topical treatment, antibiotics, isotretinoin, and laser and light therapy. In the last few years, this segment has seen a prominent development with the approval of drugs and therapeutics devices.This trend is expected to continue during the forecast period.


Acne Treatment End User Insights


The acne treatment market, on the basis of end user, is segmented into hospitals & clinics and specialty centers. The hospitals & clinics accounted for a larger market share of 55.42% in 2019.



  • Hospitals & Clinics


The growth of the acne treatment market in the hospital and clinics segment is driven by the increasing prevalence of skin disorders, including acne. As per the American Academy of Dermatology Association, nearly 85% of teenagers are affected by acne at some point during their teenage years.In total, over 50 million people have acne in the US. All these cases ultimately involve hospitals and clinics for the treatment of acne.



  • Specialty Centers


The presence of advanced technologies and expert dermatologists in specialty centers is driving the segment. Furthermore, the increasing number of specialty care and the rising spending on skincare is hugely driving the growth of the acne treatment market in this segment. For instance, as per the American Academy of Dermatology Association, in 2013, the costs associated with the treatment among those who sought medical care for acne exceeded USD 1.2 billion.


NewsMinocycline Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, a brand-name antibiotic used to treat medium to severe acne, has received final approval from the US health authorities, according to Zydus Lifesciences. The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has approved Minocycline Hydrochloride tablet form in strengths of 65 mg, 115 mg, and 55 mg, according to a regulation filing by Zydus Lifesciences. Adults with intermediate to severe acne 12 years of age and above should use the medicine.


Acne Treatment Regional Insights


The global acne treatment market, based on region, has been divided into the Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa.




  • Americas




Americas led the acne treatment market in 2019 and is likely to continue to command during the review period. This can be attributed to the high prevalence of acne and skin disorders, product launches, and technological advancement in this region. As per the American Academy of Dermatology Association,nearly 85% of teenagers are affected by acne at some point during their teenage years. In total, over 50 million people have acne in the US.Furthermore, in 2013, the costs associated with acne treatment among those who sought medical care for acne exceeded USD 1.2 billion in the US. This huge contribution of the US in the Americas acne treatment market is anticipated to fuel the regional market growth.




  • Europe




Europe held the second-largest position in the acne treatment market in 2019 owing to the organic growth strategies of companies and a well-developed medical industry in the region. Key players are focused on novel product developments and launches, fueling the growth of the acne treatment market in the region. In August 2020, CassiopeaSpA, an Italy-based pharmaceutical company, announced that it had cleared the US FDA approval for their Winlevi (clascoterone cream 1%) for the treatment of acne. Similarly, Galderma, a Swiss pharmaceutical company specializing in dermatological treatments and skincare products, has announced its topical retinoid trifarotene 0.005%. AKLIEF has been approved by the US FDA for the treatment of acne vulgaris. These organic growth strategies help companies to strengthen their position in the European market.




  • Asia-Pacific




Asia-Pacific is anticipated to register the highest growth rate over the forecast period from 2020 to 2027. This is owing to the high incidence of acne, increased government initiative, and the presence of a large number of pharmaceutical companies. Various initiatives taken by the government to support the healthcare system are also fueling the growth of the regional market. Furthermore, increasing disposable income of middle-class families, which accounts for a large population in Asia, results in more on health, driving the growth of the acne treatment market in the region.




  • Middle East & Africa




The growth of the acne treatment market in the Middle East & Africa is growing steadily in the past few years. The key factors propelling the growth of this market are the increasing prevalence of acne and funding by private players and government bodies.


List of Key Companies Covered in the Report

  • GlaxoSmithKline plc.,

  • Almirall, S.A.

  • Galderma Laboratories

  • Hoffman La Roche Ltd

  • Bausch Health Companies Inc

  • Leo Pharma A/S

  • Johnson & Johnson Services Inc

  • Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd

  • Candela Corporation

  • Vyne Therapeutics Inc.


Recent Developments


October 2023:Bausch Health Companies Inc. (US) announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Cabtreo (clindamycin phosphate, adapalene, and benzoyl peroxide) topical gel for the treatment of acne vulgaris in patients twelve years of age and older.


December 2022:Beiersdorf AG (Germany) acquired S-Biomedic NV (Belgium) to strengthen its expertise in the field of acne treatment.


March 2020:Menlo Therapeutics announced the merger with Foamix Pharmaceuticals Ltd to create a combined biopharmaceutical company, or the Combined Company, focused on the commercialization and development of therapeutics to serve patients in the dermatology space.


February 2020:Almirall signed a license agreement with Paratek Pharmaceuticals, Inc. for the development of Seysara in China.


July 2019:LEO Pharma acquired Bayer’s prescription dermatology business. With this, the company aims to expand its business in Brazil, Austria, and South Africa.


Report Overview:


  • The study covers the existing short-term and long-term market effects, helping decision-makers to draught short-term and long-term plans for businesses by region. The report covers major regions in the Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. The report analyzes market drivers, restraints, opportunities, challenges, Porter's five forces, value chain, and impact of COVID-19 on the market.




Acne Treatment Market Segmentation


Acne Treatment Acne Type Outlook



  • Moderate Acne

  • Mild Acne

  • Moderate to Severe Acne


Acne Treatment Treatment Outlook



  • Medication

  • Therapeutic Devices


Acne Treatment Drug Type Outlook



  • OTC

  • Prescription


Acne Treatment Route of Administration Outlook



  • Topical

  • Oral

  • Injectable


Acne Treatment End User Outlook



  • Hospitals & Clinics

  • Specialty Centers


Acne Treatment Region Outlook




  • Americas


    • North America

      • US

      • Canada

      • Latin America






  • Europe


    • Western Europe

      • Germany

      • UK

      • France

      • Italy

      • Spain

      • Rest of Western Europe



    • Eastern Europe




  • Asia-Pacific

    • China

    • Japan

    • India

    • Australia

    • South Korea

    • Rest of Asia-Pacific




  • Middle East and Africa

    • Middle East

    • Africa



Report Attribute/Metric Details
Market Size 2021 USD 9.2 Billion
Market Size 2022 USD 9.6 Billion
Market Size 2032 USD 14.44 Billion
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 4.6% (2023-2032)
Base Year 2021
Forecast Period 2023-2032
Historical Data 2018 & 2020
Forecast Units Value (USD Billion)
Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
Segments Covered Acne Type, Treatment, Drug Type, Route of Administration, End User and Region
Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World
Countries Covered The U.S, Canada, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil
Key Companies Profiled GlaxoSmithKline plc., Almirall S.A., Galderma Laboratories, Hoffman La Roche Ltd, Bausch Health Companies Inc, Leo Pharma A/S, Johnson & Johnson Services Inc, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, Candela Corporation and Vyne Therapeutics Inc
Key Market Opportunities High influence of social media and brand endorsements
Key Market Dynamics High global acne prevalence        Increasing sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy food habits Rise in the disposable income of middle class people


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :

The acne treatment market has the scope to grow with a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period covering 2023-2032.

Side-effects of non-prescription drugs and the high cost of various therapies can hold back the normal growth of the acne treatment market.

The acne treatment market is slated to grow with end users like ambulatory surgical centers, pharmacies & drug stores, hospitals & clinics, and others.

The Americas market would dominate the acne treatment market.

The Asia Pacific market has the opening to record the fastest growth for the global acne market.

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