Industry Insights
The China scar treatment market size was valued at USD 949.2 million in 2016 and is expected to grow further over the forecast period. The market is driven by the rising focus on improving aesthetic appeal and increasing demand for complete skin rejuvenation. Furthermore, increasing instances of burn injuries and road accidents have resulted in an increased demand for cosmetic surgeries, thereby propelling the market growth.
China scar treatment market revenue, by scar type, 2014 - 2025 (USD Million)
Moreover, high demand for various products to enhance aesthetics owing to increased concerns regarding appearance among young population would also drive the China market. Scarring resulting from acne is one of the most common concerns. They often disturb esthetic appeal, which make the affected patients uncomfortable about their appearance.
Moreover, high number of active plastic surgeons has also contributed to the growth of scar treatment procedures in China. For instance, according to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), 6.9% of the total actively performing plastic surgeons across the globe are present in China. This provides a wider scope for reconstructive treatments in the country, thus, leading to growth in the awareness levels among people.
Furthermore, the market is witnessing considerable technological developments with the introduction of laser therapies. Growing cases of hypertrophic burn scars, wherein the victim’s appearance is distorted, has also resulted in the high market demand in the region.
Segmentation by Product
• Topical Products
• Creams
• Gels
• Silicon sheets
• Others
• Laser Products
• CO2 Laser
• Pulse-dyed Laser
• Others
• Injectables
• Others
Topical products held the largest market revenue share as they are easily available as Over-The-Counter (OTC) products and can be used for the treatment of a variety of scarring. The cost-effectiveness and easy availability has resulted in frequent demand for topical products and is expected to drive the market growth in China. Topical creams and gels help treat cuts, surgical and burn marks, and accidental and sports injuries. These products are also used for the treatment of acne marks or stretch marks. Hence, growing cases of road accidents in the region coupled with subsequent increase in the number of cosmetic procedures has accelerated the demand for topical products.
The laser products are set to grow at a significant pace as they involve noninvasive procedures that can be used for the treatment of acne marks, keloid, or stretch marks. Laser products usually take 30 minutes or less for treating scars and offer higher comfort levels; thus, cosmetic laser surgeries are adopted widely. With the advent of the latest technological innovations, laser technology has been used extensively in scar reduction and removal, thus, capturing a considerable amount of the market share. It is expected to witness a considerable growth during the forecast period.
Segmentation by Scar Type
• Atrophic
• Hypertrophic & Keloid
• Contracture
• Stretch Marks
Atrophic segment is expected to exhibit the highest growth owing to the rising cases of skin infections and acne. Atrophic scars are usually formed when the skin produces insufficient collagen to heal the infected site. The treatment of such scarring usually revolves around the use of creams, gels, and ointments that are topical in nature and are available easily. Thus, growing inclination towards improved aesthetic appeal is expected to increase the demand for OTC topical products.
In addition, hypertrophic and keloid scars are also anticipated to witness significant growth over the forecast period. Treatment for these usually involve the same noninvasive treatment, like gels, creams, and silicone sheets in minor injury cases and laser products in adverse cases thus, aiding industry growth.
Segmentation by End Use
• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Retail pharmacies/E-commerce
The hospital segment dominated the China market in 2016 owing to the usage of sophisticated infrastructure and technologically advanced products for scar treatment in hospital settings. Emergency care is provided at hospitals, and thus, treatment options after healing of wounds and burn injuries are often cared for by hospitals. Increasing number of burn care surgeries taking place in hospital settings has supported the growth of this segment.
The retail pharmacies/e-commerce segment is anticipated to witness the highest growth owing to increased number of online websites and easy availability of topical products on these portals. With a variety of products being offered on websites, individuals are more aware of the kind of product to be used with respect to a particular type of scar. Moreover, people prefer buying online products due to numerous offers and discounted prices. In addition, the convenience offered by these retail stores has garnered more interest amongst individuals regarding topical products, thus accelerating their demand.
Competitive Landscape
The China scar treatment market has a few global players with limited presence in the market. Some of the major companies are Smith & Nephew; Sonoma Pharmaceuticals; Molnlycke Health Care AB; Suneva Medical Inc.; Pacific World Corporation; and New Medical Technology. These market players are continuously striving for competitive advantage with the diverse product portfolio and significant strategical initiatives such as launching new products. For instance, in 2015 Lumenis launched a laser system named ResurFX for resurfacing.
