Global Artificial Tears Market to Reach US$5.3 Billion by 2030

The global market for Artificial Tears estimated at US$3.5 Billion in the year 2023, is expected to reach US$5.3 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Glycol-based, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 5.5% CAGR and reach US$2.7 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Cellulose-based segment is estimated at 6.3% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$919.3 Million While China is Forecast to Grow at 9.5% CAGR

The Artificial Tears market in the U.S. is estimated at US$919.3 Million in the year 2023. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$1.3 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 9.5% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 3.3% and 4.7% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 4.1% CAGR.

Global Artificial Tears Market - Key Trends and Drivers Summarized

Dry Eye Disease (DED), increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern in the United States, affects an estimated 16 million diagnosed individuals, with millions more likely suffering undiagnosed. Symptoms such as watery eyes, sensitivity to light, and a burning sensation not only degrade quality of life but also impose substantial economic costs due to treatment and reduced work productivity. DED occurs in two primary forms: aqueous-deficient and evaporative, the latter being exacerbated by environmental factors like low humidity and lifestyle choices such as prolonged use of digital devices, which reduce blinking rates and increase tear evaporation. The demographic affected by DED is broadening to include younger individuals, attributed to heightened exposure to screens. Women are particularly more prone to DED, with hormonal fluctuations often influencing tear production and leading to higher prevalence and more severe impacts compared to men.

Artificial tears serve as an essential treatment for managing DED by providing symptomatic relief and supplementing the eye`s natural moisture layer. These over-the-counter products typically contain demulcents like carboxymethylcellulose or hydroxymethylcellulose, which help maintain ocular surface moisture. Emollients such as mineral oil are added to some formulations to enhance the lipid layer of the tear film, thus reducing evaporation and benefiting those with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, a common cause of evaporative DED. However, while many artificial tears contain preservatives to prevent bacterial growth, these can cause irritation, especially with frequent use, leading to a growing consumer preference for preservative-free options packaged in single-dose vials for safer, more frequent application.

The demand for artificial tears is driven by several factors, including the global increase in screen use and an aging population, both of which contribute to the prevalence of dry eye symptoms. Additionally, growing consumer awareness and healthcare recommendations support self-medication with artificial tears, with a notable shift towards preservative-free formulations to avoid irritation. Environmental changes such as pollution and air-conditioned interiors also exacerbate dry eye symptoms, further propelling the market growth. These factors, along with lifestyle trends like the extended wear of contact lenses and the influence of fashion, ensure the continued relevance and expansion of artificial tears in managing eye health.