The global anti-itch ointment market size is predicted to reach USD 2.4 billion by 2031 expanding at a CAGR of 3.8%, according to the latest report published by iDataAcument.

The market is driven by the rising prevalence of skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis. Other factors boosting growth include product innovations, OTC availability, and consumer inclination towards topical treatments.

Anti-itch ointments provide temporary relief from pruritus associated with insect bites, allergies, chickenpox, sunburns etc. They exert anesthetic, antipruritic, and anti-inflammatory effects. With the growing burden of itching disorders worldwide, the demand for effective anti-pruritic treatments is increasing, thereby driving the anti-itch ointment industry.

In recent years, leading manufacturers have launched novel formulations containing natural ingredients like menthol, camphor, and oatmeal. For instance, Aveeno recently introduced its anti-itch cream with colloidal oatmeal. Moreover, investments in digital therapeutics and teledermatology are improving the management of underlying skin conditions. The market is also driven by self-medication and easy OTC availability of these products.

However, side-effects associated with long-term use of certain ingredients like topical steroids can restrain market growth to some extent. Nevertheless, the expanding online pharmacy channels are expected to create lucrative opportunities for manufacturers in the future.

Drivers:

• Increasing prevalence of eczema, psoriasis, and fungal skin infections will drive the demand for anti-itch ointments over the forecast period. As per estimates, around 20% of children and 3% of adults worldwide suffer from eczema.
• Investments in R&D by pharmaceutical companies to develop novel ingredients and formulations will also boost the anti-itch ointment market growth. For instance, Pfizer’s orphan drug Abrocitinib is under review by the FDA for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.

Trends:

The demand for anti-itch ointments with natural ingredients like menthol, camphor, and oatmeal is increasing driven by growing consumer inclination towards natural products.

Technological advancements and new drug delivery methods such as nanoparticle-based topicals are key trends in the market.

Large untapped patient population and improving access to healthcare in emerging economies present significant growth opportunities.

Key Report Insights:

• North America accounted for the largest share of over 35% of the global anti-itch ointment market in 2024. Presence of key players such as Pfizer, Sanofi, Johnson & Johnson, coupled with high awareness regarding skin diseases are driving the North America market.
• Europe was the second largest market with a share of 30% in 2024. High prevalence of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, along with favorable government policies regarding rare dermatological conditions make Europe a prominent regional market.
• Leading companies operating in the global anti-itch ointment industry include Pfizer, Sanofi, GlaxoSmithKline, Johnson & Johnson, Bayer, Novartis, AstraZeneca, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Sun Pharmaceuticals, etc. These players are focused on new product launches, collaborations, and geographic expansions to gain market share.

Market Segmentation:

• By Product Type
  • Creams
  • Ointments
  • Lotions
  • Gels
  • Others (Sprays, Foams)
• By Active Ingredient
  • Corticosteroids
  • Local Anesthetics
  • Calcineurin Inhibitors
  • Antihistamines
  • Counterirritants
  • Moisturizers
  • Others
• By Distribution Channel
  • OTC
  • Prescription
  • Online Sales
  • Retail Pharmacies
  • Hospital Pharmacies
• By Indication
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Insect Bites
  • Poison Ivy
  • Allergic Reactions
  • Others
• By End-User
  • Adult
  • Pediatric
  • Geriatric Population
• By Region
  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Latin America
  • Middle East & Africa

Definition:

“The anti-itch ointment market refers to the industry comprising topical products like creams, ointments, gels etc. that provide relief from itching and inflammation associated with skin conditions such as insect bites, eczema, psoriasis, sunburns etc. These over-the-counter and prescription formulations exert anesthetic, antipruritic, and anti-inflammatory effects on the applied area to control symptoms of itching and rashes. Key players operating in this market include pharmaceutical companies developing novel anti-itch ingredients and formulations. It is a steadily growing market driven by the rising patient pool with dermatological conditions causing pruritus.”