Artificial Tears - Market Insights, Competitive Landscape, and Market Forecast - 2030

Artificial Tears Market By Product (Cellulose-Derived Tears, Glycerin-Derived Tears, Polyethylene Glycol And Propylene Glycol-Based Tears, And Others), By Delivery Method (Eye Drops And Eye Ointments), By Application (Dry Eye Disease, Allergies And Infections, And Others), and by geography is expected to grow at a steady CAGR forecast till 2030 owing to the increasing prevalence dry eyes syndrome and increasing availability of over the counter (otc) artificial tears

The global artificial tears market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2030. The demand for artificial tears is primarily being boosted by the increasing figures of dry eye syndrome due to prolonged exposure to chronic conjunctivitis, regular air travel, digital layouts, poor eyelid, scars of eye injury, poor diet, malnutrition, the surge in level of pollution, dry weather spells, and drastic climatic changes. Further, the increasing demand for preservative-free artificial tears, the growing requirement for advanced care for post-surgery dry eyes, technological advances, the mounting number of mobile and smartphone addicts, the escalating number of people wearing contact lenses, and the increasing product launches and approval among others are thereby contributing to the overall growth of the artificial tears market during the forecast period from 2024-2030.

Artificial Tears Market Dynamics:

The increase in the prevalence of dry eye syndrome. According to the latest data available, nearly 344 million people worldwide had dry eye disease (DED), and that number is growing in both young and old adults, making it imperative that clinicians figure out how best to treat it. Artificial tears provide moisture and lubrication to the dry eye and help to maintain moisture on the outer surface of the eyes, thereby managing dry eye disease.

Furthermore, increasing screen time will lead to a lack of moisture in the eyes, which can be managed by using artificial tears. The latest data provided by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that kids ages 8-18 spend, on average, spent a whopping 7.5 hours in front of a screen for entertainment each day, 4.5 of which are spent watching TV. Over a year, that adds up to 114 full days watching a screen for fun. Thus, increasing screen time will lead to a lack of moisture in the eyes and dry eyes which can be treated by lubricating eye drops or artificial tears.

The increasing awareness about dry eye syndrome and various other initiatives by government bodies will also generate significant opportunities for the artificial tear market. The increasing demand for contact lenses is also expected to propel the market of artificial tears as the over-usage of contact lenses may lead to the lack of moisture in the eyes and thereby leading to an increased demand for products such as artificial tears which are used as a lubricating agent for the eyes.

Lastly, the presence of a large of products in the pipeline will also create a lucrative opportunity for market growth during the upcoming years. For instance, in December 2023, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, started a phase II clinical trial for the evaluation of multidose preservative-free lubricating eye drops contained in Novelia® Eye Dropper in non-contact lens-wearing patients. The study is estimated to get completed by March 2023.

Therefore, the above-mentioned factors are contributing to the growth of the Artificial Tears market during the forecast period from 2024-2030.

However, the risk of contamination and adverse reactions associated with preservatives present in the product, the availability of alternative treatment options, and others may restrict the artificial tears market growth.

Artificial Tears Market Segment Analysis:

Artificial Tears Market by Product (Cellulose Derived Tears, Glycerin Derived Tears, Polyethylene Glycol and Propylene Glycol-Based Tears, and Others), Delivery Method (Eye Drops and Eye Ointments), Application (Dry Eye Disease, Allergies and Infections, and Others), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World)

In the product segment of the artificial tears market, the polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol-based tears category is expected to amass significant revenue share in the year 2023. This can be ascribed to the presence of large products based on polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol in the market and the advantages offered by the segment.

For instance, artificial tears decrease the conjunctival impression cytology, reduce corneal or conjunctival staining, and increase tear film break-up time. Also, they work similarly to natural tears and provide temporary relief from burning and discomfort due to dryness of the eye. Also, these artificial tears can improve ocular surface health and reverse the changes induced by squamous metaplasia in dry eye disease. All these advantages offered by the polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol-based artificial tears make it an apt treatment for treating dye eye syndrome and eye infections.

The increasing product launches and approvals will also certainly impact the demand for polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol-based artificial tears. For instance, in April 2022 Alcon, announced the launch of Systane Hydration Multi-Dose Preservative-Free Lubricant eye drops in the U.S. region. This product is a new addition to their existing portfolio of dry eye products. These new eye drops are made up of polyethylene glycol 400 (0.4%) and propylene glycol (0.3%). The eye drop is preservative-free and provides moisture to patients with sensitive dry eyes.

Therefore, the advantages offered by polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol-based artificial tears are predicted to contribute to the increasing demand for this product type thereby driving the growth of the overall artificial tears market during the forecast period.

North America is expected to dominate the overall Artificial Tears Market:

Among all the regions, North America is estimated to account for the largest share of the artificial tears market in the year 2023. Owing to the significance of key growth factors such as the rising prevalence of dry eye disease and eye infections will positively impact the North American artificial tears market. In addition, the increasing exposure to blue light from digital displays, enhanced use of mobile phones, raised pollution levels, and dry weather spells will increase the demand for artificial tears during the forecast period. Furthermore, high disposable income, sophisticated healthcare infrastructure, regulatory approval for new devices, and high awareness about ophthalmic diseases also helped the market growth in this region.

As per the latest data available, between 16 million and 49 million Americans had dry eyes. This is between 5-15% of the total population. Also, twice as many women had been diagnosed as men. The increasing burden of dry eye disease will increase the demand for artificial tears as these eye drops will lubricate the eyes during the disease and will provide relief from dry eyes.

Additionally, the rising penetration of smartphones and tablets, demand for artificial tears during post-operative care, and technological advancements are some of the driving factors contributing to the market growth.

Coupled with the factors mentioned above, strategic activities such as product launches and approvals, mergers, acquisitions, partnerships, and others also help in boosting regional product demand. For instance, in July 2022, Bausch+Lomb, a subsidiary of Bausch Health Companies Inc. announced the launch of Biotrue Hydration Boost Lubricant Eye Drops and Biotrue Micellar Eyelids Cleansing Wipes in the US region. These products are developed for patients suffering from irritated, dry eyes.

Also, in May 2022, Alcon, announced an agreement to acquire EYSUVIS® (loteprednol etabonate suspension) 0.25% pharmaceutical eye drops from Kala Pharmaceuticals, Inc. EYSUVIS will complement the Systane® family of eye drops (artificial tear) which includes the recently launched Systane Preservative-Free formulations now available in a convenient, multi-dose bottle. Thus, such strategic steps help to increase the demand for artificial tears, thereby driving the North America artificial tears market forward during the forecast period.

Artificial Tears Market Key Players:

Some of the key market players operating in the artificial tears market include Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Bausch & Lomb, AbbVie, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Abbott, Medicom Healthcare Ltd., Similasan Corporation, URSAPHARM INDIA Pvt. Ltd, Alcon Inc., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc., AFT Pharmaceuticals, Akorn Operating Company LLC, Hilco Vision, Entod Research Cell UK Ltd., OASIS Medical, Inc., and others.

Recent Developmental Activities in the Artificial Tears Market:

In January 2022, Alcon announced the European launch of the newest addition to its innovative portfolio of dry eye products, Systane Complete Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Drops, now in an easy-to-use, multi-dose bottle. Systane is the leading global artificial tear brand.

In February 2020, I-MED Pharma Inc., a Canadian company specializing in dry eye diagnosis and management, launched its newest, most advanced addition to its I-DROP artificial tear line, called I-DROP®MGD.

In October 2019, Allergan plc launched three new over-the-counter (OTC) REFRESH RELIEVA products: REFRESH RELIEVA, REFRESH RELIEVA PF (preservative-free) multidose, and REFRESH RELIEVA for contacts. This new line of artificial tear formulations available in preserved, preservative-free multidose, and a formula designed for contact lens wearers, are specially formulated to relieve discomfort due to eye dryness and to prevent further irritation.

Key Takeaways from the Artificial Tears Market Report Study

Market size analysis for current artificial tears market size (2023), and market forecast for 5 years (2024-2030)

The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on this market is significant. To capture and analyze suitable indicators, our experts are closely watching the artificial tears market.

Top key product/services/technology developments, mergers, acquisitions, partnerships, and joint ventures happened for the last 3 years

Key companies dominating the global artificial tears market.

Various opportunities available for the other competitor in the artificial tears market space.

What are the top-performing segments in 2023? How these segments will perform in 2030.

Which are the top-performing regions and countries in the current artificial tears market scenario?

Which are the regions and countries where companies should have concentrated on opportunities for artificial tears market growth in the coming future?

Target Audience who can be benefited from this Artificial Tears Market Report Study

Artificial tears products providers

Research organizations and consulting companies

Artificial tears-related organizations, associations, forums, and other alliances

Government and corporate offices

Start-up companies, venture capitalists, and private equity firms

Distributors and Traders dealing in artificial tears

Various End-users who want to know more about the artificial tears market and the latest technological developments in the artificial tears market.

Frequently Asked Questions for the Artificial Tears Market:

1. What are artificial tears?

Artificial tears are mentioned as lubricant eye drops that are applied for treating irritation and dryness against the deficiency in tear generation in dry eyes or keratoconjunctivitis sicca. These artificial tears are also applied for moistening contact lenses and during eye check-ups and inspections. These artificial tears are made by engaging water, salts, and polymers together

2. What is the market for global artificial tears?

The global artificial tears market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2030.

3. What are the drivers for the global artificial tears market?

The demand for artificial tears is primarily being heightened by the increasing prevalence of dry eyes and eye allergies and infections. In addition, the advancement in artificial tears that aid in improving its efficacy and safety, increasing product launches and approvals, among others, thereby contribute to the overall growth of the artificial tears market during the forecast period from 2024-2030.

4. Who are the key players operating in the global artificial tears market?

Some of the key market players operating in the artificial tears market include Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Bausch & Lomb, AbbVie, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Abbott, Medicom Healthcare Ltd., Similasan Corporation, URSAPHARM INDIA Pvt. Ltd, Alcon Inc., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc., AFT Pharmaceuticals, Akorn Operating Company LLC, Hilco Vision, Entod Research Cell UK Ltd., OASIS Medical, Inc., and others.

5. Which region has the highest share in the artificial tears market?

North America is expected to dominate the overall artificial tears market during the forecast period from 2024-2030. Factors such as the rising prevalence of dry eye disease and eye infections will positively impact the North American artificial tears market. In addition, the increasing exposure to blue light from digital displays, enhanced use of mobile phones, raised pollution levels, and dry weather spells will increase the demand for artificial tears during the forecast period. Furthermore, high disposable income, sophisticated healthcare infrastructure, regulatory approval for new devices, and high awareness about ophthalmic diseases also helped the market growth in this region.