Market Trends of Personal Lubricants Industry
Water-based Lubricants Segment is Expected to Hold the Major Market Share in the Forecast Period
The water-based lubricant segment is expected to dominate the industry over the forecast period. The factors attributing to the market's growth are the increasing adoption of water-based lubricant products due to their proven efficiency in lubrication, higher compatibility with latex condoms, sex toys, and gel-like consistency. These lubricants are similar to natural vaginal lubricants, making them easy to clean and available at a lower cost than other types.
The increased availability of a wide range of these marketed products with fewer side effects and the introduction of premium products by manufacturers, such as flavored and moisturizing lubricants, in recent years, is expected to fuel the segment's growth over the forecast period. For instance, in January 2021, O-Shot Women launched O-Shot Liquid Glide for women, a water-based lubricant under its sexual segment. This new formula is developed to mimic the body's natural lubrication. It is made with Aloe Vera, Lactic Acid, and HempClear extract, which combine to boost natural moisture and long-lasting comfort.
The preservative-free and natural products are increasingly in demand due to growing consumer awareness of these products and rising adult women's concerns about vaginal dryness and sexual dysfunction. Many water-based personal lubricants and lubes are also available in the market that contains glycerin that reduces friction during intercourse. Some examples are KY Jelly Personal Lubricating gel, Durex Play Tingling Cooling Lubricant, Kamasutra Strawberry Lubes, Kamasutra Aloe and Vitamin E Lubes, and others.
Therefore, the above-mentioned factors are expected to boost the segment's growth over the forecast period.
North America Dominates the Market and it is Expected to Grow during the Forecast Period
North America is expected to dominate the overall personal lubricants market during the forecast period. The factors attributing to the growth of the market are the increasing prevalence of erectile dysfunction and vaginal dryness due to sedentary lifestyles and increased stress among the population and the increasing adoption of personal lubricants by men who have sex with men (MSM) and sex workers to reduce discomfort during intercourse.
The United States witnessed the highest number of positive COVID-19 cases and witnessed a significant impact on the lubricant demand. However, the impact of COVID-19 is not much significant in other countries of North America, i.e., Canada and Mexico, due to the comparatively fewer positive cases and functioning of end-user industries. The lubricant market in the United States witnessed a downward trend in 2020 as the country was completely locked down, and very few industries for essential services were functioning. End-user industries such as transportation and chemical are the most affected industries by the lubricants industry in the region. A rapid increase in the number of older adults and the rising adoption of these products in the region are the factors expected to fuel the demand for personal lubricants.
Lubricant manufacturers are focused on creating awareness regarding the management of vaginal dryness that can lead to abrasions and chafing of the skin and rising susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases. Product innovations by manufacturers to meet the increasing customer demand are expected to propel the market's growth. For instance, in May 2022, BioFilm launched the latest addition to its line of personal lubricants, such as ASTROGLIDE X Spray 'n Glide Premium Silicone Personal Lubricant. This spray lube can be applied one-handed and features a gentle spray feel and an enjoyable cooling sensation for elevated pleasure.
Therefore, due to the above-mentioned factors, North America is expected to have a significant market share in the market studied over the forecast period.
