US Humectants Market Overview
US Humectants Market Size was estimated at 764.75 (USD Million) in 2023. The US Humectants Market Industry is expected to grow from 784(USD Million) in 2024 to 1,367 (USD Million) by 2035. The US Humectants Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 5.184% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Key US Humectants Market Trends Highlighted
The US Humectants Market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for personal care and cosmetic products that feature moisturizing ingredients. Many consumers are becoming more aware of the importance of hydration for skin health, which has led to a rise in products that contain humectants such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and sorbitol. Additionally, the growing trend towards natural and organic ingredients in personal care items is pushing manufacturers to incorporate plant-based humectants to meet consumer preferences for clean beauty. Opportunities in the US market are abundant, particularly as industries such as food and beverages also recognize the benefits of humectants for preserving moisture and enhancing texture.The growing trend of clean label products in the food sector is prompting food manufacturers to explore naturally derived humectants. Furthermore, as e-commerce continues to expand, there is a vast opportunity for brands to reach a larger audience by offering specialized formulations that cater to specific skin types and needs. In recent times, sustainability has emerged as a key consideration among consumers, pushing brands to seek eco-friendly humectant sources and sustainable production practices. Regulatory agencies in the US, such as the FDA, are also keeping a close watch on the use of humectants in various industries, ensuring safe and effective products are available to consumers.This emphasizes the importance of transparency in ingredient sourcing and labeling, which is becoming a competitive advantage in the market. The focus on health, sustainability, and compliance will likely continue to shape the US Humectants Market in the coming years.
US Humectants Market Drivers
Rising Demand for Personal Care Products
The growth of the US Humectants Market Industry is significantly driven by the increasing demand for personal care products, including cosmetics and skincare. According to the Personal Care Products Council, the personal care industry in the United States generated over 100 billion USD in retail sales annually, showcasing a steady increase of around 4% each year. The compound that contributes to this trend is the rising consumer awareness regarding skincare benefits and the desire for hydration, promotes the use of humectants.Brands such as Johnson & Johnson and Procter & Gamble are investing heavily in research and development to incorporate more humectants in their formulations, aligning with consumer preferences for hydration-related attributes. This increased attention towards topical hydration products is expected to enhance the overall growth of the US Humectants Market.
Growing Trend in Natural and Organic Ingredients
The US Humectants Market Industry is experiencing notable expansion due to the rising consumer preference for natural and organic ingredients in food and personal care products. According to the Organic Trade Association, organic product sales in the United States reached 61 billion USD in recent years, indicating a growing consciousness about ingredient sources. This trend is reflected in the humectants market, with manufacturers like Burt's Bees leading the charge in providing products that harness the benefits of natural humectants like glycerin and aloe vera.As consumers continue to seek cleaner labels and innovative formulations, the demand for humectants that are safe and effective is expected to rise, further propelling market growth.
Increase in Health and Well-Being Aawareness
The surge in health and wellness awareness among consumers in the United States is another vital driver for the US Humectants Market Industry. Recent surveys by the International Food Information Council indicate that around 70% of Americans are more conscious about their eating habits and personal care routines. Humectants play a pivotal role in preventing dehydration of the skin and body, thus directly appealing to health-conscious consumers. Companies like Unilever have responded to this trend by investing in research to create humectants aimed at enhancing skin moisture retention.As consumers prioritize their health and well-being, it is likely to stimulate further growth in the humectants market as people seek out products that support their wellness goals.
Advancements in Food Preservation Techniques
Advancements in food preservation technology are positively impacting the US Humectants Market Industry, as humectants like glycerin and sorbitol are increasingly used in food products to maintain moisture content. The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service reported a significant increase in the usage of humectants in food processing due to their effectiveness in prolonging shelf life without sacrificing quality. This reflects a notable trend for manufacturers to implement humectants as part of their preservation strategies within the food industry.Major companies like Kraft Heinz have recognized this trend, allowing for products with extended freshness and improving production processes. This evolving landscape in food processing is anticipated to contribute to the robust growth of the humectants market in the United States.
US Humectants Market Segment Insights
Humectants Market Application Insights
The Application segment of the US Humectants Market exhibits a significant breadth, driven by diverse industries such as Cosmetics, Food and Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care, and Agriculture. As consumer needs evolve, the demand for humectants in cosmetics has surged, primarily because of their capacity to provide moisture retention, which enhances product efficacy and consumer appeal in skin care formulations. In the food and beverages sector, humectants serve a critical role in maintaining moisture levels in various products, thereby improving texture and extending shelf life, which is essential for ensuring food quality.The pharmaceutical industry leverages humectants for their ability to stabilize formulations and enhance drug delivery systems, making them a vital component in the manufacturing of various medications. Moreover, in personal care products, humectants are key ingredients that contribute to the hydration and softness of skin and hair care items, addressing the growing consumer focus on wellness and self-care. The agriculture segment also benefits from humectants, where their use in soil conditioners can improve moisture retention and enhance crop yields, supporting sustainable practices in food production.Overall, the US Humectants Market segmentation reflects the interconnectivity of these industries and their shared reliance on humectants to meet consumer expectations for moisture retention and overall product quality. Market growth in these diverse Applications is further fueled by rising awareness about the benefits of humectants and their multifaceted functionalities, providing opportunities for innovation and expansion.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Humectants Market Source Insights
The Source segment of the US Humectants Market is characterized by a diverse range of ingredients primarily classified into Natural and Synthetic. Natural humectants, derived from plant sources, have gained significant traction due to the rising consumer preference for clean-label products and organic formulations. This shift corresponds with a growing awareness regarding skin health and eco-consciousness among consumers, driving demand for naturally sourced ingredients in personal care and cosmetic products. On the other hand, synthetic humectants continue to dominate the market owing to their effectiveness, consistency, and cost-effectiveness.They are widely utilized in various applications, including pharmaceuticals and food products, owing to their functional properties and extended shelf life. As consumers become more informed about ingredient sourcing and sustainability, the balance between Natural and Synthetic humectants will evolve, creating opportunities for innovation and product differentiation. Coupled with a stable increase in demand across multiple industries, the dynamics within the Source segment are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the overall landscape of the US Humectants Market in the coming years.
Humectants Market Formulation Type Insights
The US Humectants Market demonstrates a diverse segmentation based on Formulation Type, comprising Liquid, Solid, and Powder forms, each contributing uniquely to the industry's dynamics. Liquid humectants are often favored for their ease of application and quick absorption, making them popular in personal care and cosmetics. Solid humectants, on the other hand, offer stability and prolonged shelf life, appealing to food and pharmaceutical applications. Powdered formulations capture a significant share due to their versatility and concentration, allowing for tailored applications in various industries.The importance of these formulation types lies in their functionality to retain moisture, which aligns with the growing consumer demand for hydrating products across markets. This trend is fueled by increasing awareness regarding skin health and the essential role of humectants in both skincare and food preservation. As consumer preferences evolve, the ability of these formulation types to adapt to changing market needs underpins the significant growth potential of the US Humectants Market, making it a vital area of interest for industry stakeholders.The balance between convenience, effectiveness, and consumer satisfaction continues to drive innovations within this segment, highlighting its importance in the overall US Humectants Market landscape.
Humectants Market End Use Industry Insights
The End Use Industry segment of the US Humectants Market encompasses various sectors, with significant contributions from the Food Industry, Cosmetic Industry, and Pharmaceutical Industry. The Food Industry utilizes humectants to enhance moisture retention, thereby improving texture and shelf life of products, which is increasingly important in the context of consumer preferences for fresher and longer-lasting food items. The Cosmetic Industry heavily relies on humectants to hydrate the skin and improve product effectiveness, which has led to innovative formulations responding to consumer demand for natural and effective skincare solutions.Meanwhile, the Pharmaceutical Industry employs humectants in drug formulations to ensure drug stability and bioavailability, addressing the need for effective medication delivery systems in a growing healthcare market. The interplay of these sectors reflects overarching trends such as rising health consciousness, an increased focus on personal care, and advancements in formulation technology, positioning the US Humectants Market as a dynamic entity poised for continued growth.
US Humectants Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The competitive landscape of the US Humectants Market is characterized by a dynamic and evolving environment where various companies are striving to establish their dominance through innovation, product differentiation, and strategic partnerships. Humectants play a critical role in a myriad of applications, including personal care products, food, and pharmaceuticals, which generates considerable demand within the market space. The competitive insights are shaped by key factors such as changing consumer preferences, regulatory requirements, and technological advancements that continue to drive the growth and diversification of product offerings. Companies are focused on enhancing their supply chain efficiencies, optimizing production processes, and investing in research and development to create humectants that meet the specific needs of diverse industries.JRS Pharma has established a significant presence in the US Humectants Market, known primarily for its reliable product quality and strong commitment to customer service. The company leverages its extensive expertise in the production of pharmaceutical excipients and specialty ingredients, which further bolsters its position within the humectants sector. JRS Pharma's strengths lie in its well-established distribution network, enabling it to efficiently serve various customer segments and respond promptly to market demands. The company has cultivated relationships with key industry players, facilitating collaborations that drive innovation and enhance the effectiveness of its product offerings. Furthermore, JRS Pharma's strong focus on sustainability and meeting regulatory standards contributes to its competitive edge in the US market.Glycotech presents a formidable presence in the US Humectants Market with its specialized portfolio designed for an array of applications in personal care and industrial sectors. Known for its innovative approach, Glycotech focuses on developing high-quality humectants that not only meet but exceed customer expectations. The company emphasizes research and development, which has led to the creation of several proprietary products that stand out in the marketplace. Glycotech's strengths lie in its agile manufacturing capabilities and solid relationships with distributors, allowing for effective market penetration. Mergers and acquisitions have also enabled Glycotech to enhance its product range and expand its market reach, boosting its competitive positioning. Overall, Glycotech continues to strive for excellence by adapting to the ever-evolving needs of the US market while maintaining a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Key Companies in the US Humectants Market Include
- JRS Pharma
- Glycotech
- BASF
- Kellyton
- Evonik Industries
- SABIC
- Huntsman
- Ingevity
- Kraton
- Clariant
- Solvay
- Wacker Chemie
- Dow
- ADM
- Ashland
US Humectants Market Industry Developments
In recent months, the US Humectants Market has been marked by significant developments, particularly concerning key players like BASF, Evonik Industries, and Dow. In October 2023, BASF announced an expansion of its biodegradable humectant production capacity in response to the growing consumer demand for sustainable products. Meanwhile, Evonik Industries launched a new line of innovative humectants aimed at enhancing product performance in various applications, including personal care and cosmetics. From a merger and acquisition perspective, there have been no major reported activities among the highlighted companies during this recent period. However, over the past two years, notable developments included Dow's investment in new sustainable technologies in August 2022, which is expected to impact their humectant offerings significantly. The demand for humectants in applications like skincare, food, and pharmaceuticals continues to drive market growth, reflecting positive trends in consumer preferences for moisture retention and product efficacy. JRS Pharma, Glycotech, and Kraton remain active in Research and Development to innovate within the sector, responding to these evolving market demands.
US Humectants Market Segmentation Insights
- Humectants Market Application Outlook
- Cosmetics
- Food Beverages
- Pharmaceuticals
- Personal Care
- Agriculture
- Humectants Market Source Outlook
- Humectants Market Formulation Type Outlook
- Humectants Market End Use Industry Outlook
- Food Industry
- Cosmetic Industry
- Pharmaceutical Industry
Report Scope:
Report Attribute/Metric Source: |
Details |
MARKET SIZE 2018 |
764.75(USD Million) |
MARKET SIZE 2024 |
784.0(USD Million) |
MARKET SIZE 2035 |
1367.0(USD Million) |
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) |
5.184% (2025 - 2035) |
REPORT COVERAGE |
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
BASE YEAR |
2024 |
MARKET FORECAST PERIOD |
2025 - 2035 |
HISTORICAL DATA |
2019 - 2024 |
MARKET FORECAST UNITS |
USD Million |
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED |
JRS Pharma, Glycotech, BASF, Kellyton, Evonik Industries, SABIC, Huntsman, Ingevity, Kraton, Clariant, Solvay, Wacker Chemie, Dow, ADM, Ashland |
SEGMENTS COVERED |
Application, Source, Formulation Type, End Use Industry |
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES |
Natural and organic formulations demand, Rising cosmetic industry growth, Increasing food preservation needs, Expanding personal care products range, Sustainable and eco-friendly ingredients trend |
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS |
Increasing demand for moisture retention, Growth in beauty and personal care, Rising awareness of skincare benefits, Expanding food and beverage applications, Regulatory compliance and safety standards |
COUNTRIES COVERED |
US |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The US Humectants Market is expected to be valued at 784.0 million USD in 2024.
By 2035, the US Humectants Market is anticipated to reach a valuation of 1367.0 million USD.
The expected CAGR for the US Humectants Market from 2025 to 2035 is 5.184%.
In 2024, the Food Beverages segment is projected to have the highest market value at 200.0 million USD.
The Cosmetics segment is expected to be valued at 300.0 million USD in 2035.
Key players include JRS Pharma, BASF, Evonik Industries, and Dow among others.
The Pharmaceuticals application is expected to contribute 180.0 million USD in 2024.
The Personal Care application is projected to reach a market value of 300.0 million USD in 2035.
The Agriculture application market is expected to decline from 74.0 million USD in 2024 to 47.0 million USD in 2035.
Emerging trends in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals present significant growth opportunities in the US Humectants Market.