Professional Acne Medication Market by Acne Type (Inflammatory Acne and Non-inflammatory Acne), by Formulation (Topical Medications and Oral Medications), by Therapeutic Class (Retinoids, Antibiotics, Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, and Others), and by Distribution Channel (Med Spa, Aesthetician, Dermatologist, and Other Professional Channels) – Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024–2030

Market Overview: 

The global Professional Acne Medication market size was valued at USD 3.22 billion in 2023, and is expected to reach USD 5.24 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 7.2% from 2024 to 2030. Professional acne medication refers to prescription-based treatments and therapies prescribed and administered by licensed healthcare professionals, including dermatologists or specialized medical practitioners, to address moderate to severe cases of acne. These medications are tailored to individual needs and may include topical or oral pharmaceuticals, such as antibiotics, retinoids, contraceptives, and oral retinoids.

The professional acne medication industry is dedicated to addressing complex dermatological concerns, improving skin health, minimizing inflammation, preventing scarring, and enhancing the overall well-being of patients.

The Impact of Unhealthy Food Habits and Sedentary Lifestyles on Skin Drive the Market

Unhealthy food habits and sedentary lifestyles significantly drive the growth of the professional acne medication market. As people increasingly consume diets rich in processed foods, high in sugar, and laden with unhealthy fats, it can lead to hormonal imbalances and increased inflammation within the body. These dietary choices can intensify acne and skin issues.

In 2020, a survey carried out by Harvard Medical School found a link between consuming a lot of high-fat and high-sugar foods and an increased likelihood of having acne. The study involved 24,000 volunteers, and the results showed that people who were suffering from acne during the survey were 76% more likely to mention that they had eaten a full meal of fatty and sugary foods the previous day. 

Additionally, sedentary lifestyles characterized by limited physical activity contribute to poor circulation and impaired metabolic processes, potentially worsening the skin conditions. These unhealthy food habits and sedentary lifestyles contribute to the persistence and exacerbation of acne conditions, prompting individuals to seek professional acne medication to manage their skin issues.

Occurrence of Acne Vulgaris Condition in Teenagers & Adults Propels the Market Growth 

The growing prevalence of acne vulgaris in teenagers and adults has become a driving force behind the expansion of the professional acne medication market. According to the survey conducted by Yale Medicine, nearly half of women in their 20s, around one-third of women in their 30s, and around one-fourth of women in their 40s suffer from acne vulgaris. Lifestyle factors such as elevated stress levels, unhealthy dietary choices, and disrupted sleep patterns play a role in exacerbating acne, while environmental factors such as pollution can worsen the condition.

Additionally, hormonal imbalances during puberty in teenagers and various life stages in adults contribute to acne breakouts. Rising awareness of the psychological and physical impacts of acne coupled with the influence of social media on self-image motivated people to seek professional dermatological solutions.

Advancements in Over-The-Counter Alternatives Hinder the Market Growth

The emergence of over-the-counter (OTC) alternatives has emerged as a significant hindrance to the growth of the professional acne medication market. These alternatives, such as at-home light therapy devices and advanced skincare products, provide users with cost-effective and user-friendly options to tackle acne without needing a prescription or professional assistance.

The affordability, convenience, and immediate gratification associated with OTC alternatives have made them an attractive choice for individuals looking to address their acne concerns independently. Additionally, the privacy and reduced stigma surrounding self-treatment can dissuade people from seeking professional care.

Technological Advancements in Dermatological Treatments Create New Opportunities

Ongoing research and developments in dermatology are leading to the creation of more effective and innovative professional acne treatments than before. These advancements are expected to attract a broader range of patients seeking advanced solutions. It also holds the promise of enhancing the effectiveness of acne treatments and expanding the appeal of such treatments to a wider spectrum of patients searching for advanced solutions to combat this common skin condition.

For instance, in March 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted its initial 510(k) clearance for an energy-based device designed to treat various levels of acne ranging from mild to severe. This therapy has garnered considerable attention in recent years as one of the most extensively studied light-based treatments for acne. As these treatments gain more acceptance and widespread use, they are expected to be a key factor contributing to opportunities for the professional acne medication market.

North America Holds the Dominant Market Share in the Global Market

North America dominates the global professional acne medication market, holding 47% of the global share. As the dermatology field expands, more skilled and knowledgeable professionals are available to diagnose and treat various skin conditions, including acne. This pool of dermatologists not only enhances the accessibility of specialized care for acne patients but also fosters a greater awareness of advanced acne treatment options. According to the estimate of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2022, there were a total number of 11,640 dermatologists employed in the U.S. that perform both medical and dermatological treatments.

Moreover, the expansion of the professional acne medication industry in the U.S. is fueled by the use of advanced technology by dermatologists and skincare professionals to help people with acne. The integration of technology in skincare has brought about new diagnostic tools and treatment modalities, such as telemedicine for virtual consultations, 3D skin imaging, and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered skincare analysis.

For instance, in March 2023, Cetaphil, a sensitive skin care brand in the U.S., introduced a new AI-powered skin analysis tool. This tool offers customers personalized advice and product suggestions based on their unique skin needs, including acne, redness, hydration, dark spots, and wrinkles. This, in turn, drives the growth in the professional acne medication market by fostering greater interest in and demand for personalized and professional-grade acne treatments.

Asia-Pacific is Expected to Show Steady Growth in the Global Professional Acne Medication Market

The professional acne medication market in the Asia-Pacific region is experiencing growth, driven by the rising demand for non-invasive cosmetic treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, and laser therapy for specifically for treating acne. These treatments have gained popularity because of their effectiveness in addressing acne-related skin issues with minimal discomfort and recovery time.

For example, in June 2023, Crown Aesthetics announced its expansion into the Asia-Pacific region. This expansion aims to establish a distributor network for their acclaimed SkinPen Precision, the first FDA-cleared microneedling system, and BIOJUVE, its one-of-a-kind living probiotic. This strategic move is expected to promote these advanced acne treatment solutions in the region.

In addition, the growth of the professional acne medication market in the Asia-Pacific region can be attributed to the expansion of healthcare infrastructure, an increasing installed base of medical equipment, and the growing penetration of new technologies. These factors are driving the demand for advanced treatments and contributing to the market's expansion in the region.

Furthermore, the rich culture of wellness and self-care practices in this region has played a significant role in the development and popularity of medical spas in the country that provide a solution for acne. According to the latest report published by the Global Wellness Institute in 2020, the Asia-Pacific region is a center of around 48,679 spas. China is the second-largest industry in the world, with a revenue of USD 6.3 billion in 2020.

Competitive Landscape  

Several market players operating in the professional acne medication market include Almirall SA, Bausch Health Companies, Inc., GlaxoSmithKline Plc (GSK), Galderma SA, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Johnson & Johnson, STRATA Skin Sciences, Inc., Mayne Pharma Group Limited, and Pfizer, Inc. These market players are adopting strategies, such as product launches, across various regions to maintain their dominance in the professional acne medication market. 

For instance, in May 2023, Ortho Dermatologics, the dermatology business of Bausch Health Companies, Inc., announced the FDA clearance of the New Drug Application (NDA) for investigational IDP-126 Gel with a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA). This developmental strategy is expected to bring a first-of-its-kind triple-combination acne treatment to millions suffering from acne.

Moreover, in July 2022, STRATA Skin Sciences, Inc., a medical technology company, commercially launched TheraClearX, an in-office, non-invasive acne treatment targeting the root causes of mild to moderate acne, including comedonal, pustular, and inflammatory acne vulgaris. This technology will offer an exciting new treatment option for acne patients and dermatology professionals.

PROFESSIONAL ACNE MEDICATION KEY MARKET SEGMENTS

By Acne Type    

• Inflammatory Acne 

• Non-inflammatory Acne 

By Formulation    

• Topical Medications

• Oral Medications 

By Therapeutic Class

• Retinoids

• Antibiotics

• Salicylic Acid

• Benzoyl Peroxide

• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Med Spa

• Aesthetician

• Dermatologist

• Other Professional Channels

By Region

• North America        

  • The U.S.    

  • Canada    

  • Mexico    

• Europe        

  • The U.K.

  • Germany

  • France    

  • Italy

  • Spain

  • Denmark

  • Netherlands

  • Finland

  • Sweden

  • Norway

  • Russia

  • Rest of Europe    

• Asia-Pacific        

  • China

  • Japan

  • India

  • South Korea

  • Australia

  • Indonesia

  • Singapore

  • Taiwan

  • Thailand

  • Rest of Asia-Pacific    

• Rest of the World (RoW)        

  • Latin America

  • Middle East

  • Africa

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