The dermatology OTC medications market is expected to grow from$15.5B in 2021 to$ 21.3B by 2028; it is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2021 to 2028.
The market is segmented into product type, route of administration, indication, and distribution channel. Based on product type, the global market is segmented into tablets and capsules; gels; creams and ointments; and others. The creams and ointments segment held the largest share of the market in 2021. However, the tablets and capsules segment is estimated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Based on route of administration, the market is bifurcated into topical and oral. The topical segment held the largest share of the market in 2021; however, the oral segment is estimated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period.
Dermatology over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are sold directly to a consumer without a prescription from a healthcare professional, as opposed to prescription drugs, which may be sold only to consumers possessing a valid prescription. In many countries, OTC drugs are selected by a regulatory agency to ensure that they contain ingredients that are safe and effective when used without a physician's care. These medications are widely used in skin diseases, such as dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, skin bleaching, fungal infections, and warts.
Based on indication, the global dermatology OTC medications market is segmented into dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, skin bleaching, fungal disease, warts, and others. The acne segment held the largest share of the market in 2021; it is estimated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This high share of acne segment is due to high prevalence of acne across the globe. Acne vulgaris is becoming more prevalent in every country.
Dermatology OTC medications are widely used in the treatment of acne. Understanding the characteristics of acne vulgaris burden is critical for developing effective and targeted acne control therapies. According to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019, 117.4 million incident cases of acne vulgaris, 231.2 million prevalent cases, and 5 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) were reported worldwide, representing a 48% increase since 1990.