Market Trends of Global Scar Treatment Industry
This section covers the major market trends shaping the Scar Treatment Market according to our research experts:
Atrophic Scars to Witness Rapid Growth Over the Forecast Period
When the skin is unable to repair tissue, atrophic scars develop. As a result, it causes uneven scarring. Atrophic scars are primarily characterized by the sunken area, often visible as pitted skin. Several factors may be responsible for creating atrophic scars in the skin, such as exposure to inflammatory conditions for a long period, accident, surgery, or other genetic factors. One of the corrective measures initially applied are gentle cleansing agents, moisturizers, and soaps, which are not harsh and irritant on the skin, but remove bacteria, dirt, and oil from the skin. The ice-pack scars represent 60-70% of atrophic scars, as stated by the report from AWD Supplies, which is one of the well-known companies providing scar treatment solutions.
New techniques such as triple steps acne scar revision are proving to be effective in treating atrophic scars. In addition, there is a growing trend of aesthetic procedures across developing and developed countries, as suggested by the ISAPS (International Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) data in 2021.
When compared to other skin conditions, atrophic scars are relatively common, wherein about 80% of the adolescent population are affected by them, to some degree, as per the National Institute of Health article published in January 2022. The awareness level regarding this scar type is rather high globally. Since atrophic scars are more common, the treatment for the same is being taken largely, which is ultimately increasing the market size.
North America is the largest market for Scar Treatment
North America witnesses a significantly high number of road accidents. In such accidents, several dies, and several are bruised for the long term, where scars naturally occur as part of the healing process. For instance, according to the January 2021 report of the American Burn Association, about 450,000 serious burn injuries are recorded every year in the United States, which require medical attention, and hence, the market is expected to grow in the country.
According to the Car Statistics in Canada published in August 2022, pedestrians made up 15.2% of all fatal car accidents in Canada, while bikers made up 2.9%. In 2020, there were 1,591 fatal vehicle accidents in Canada. Thus, the growing burden of car accidents in Canada is expected to rise in cases of scar, thereby boosting the demand for scar treatment over the forecast period.
Additionally, strategic initiatives by the market players, such as product launches, mergers and acquisitions, and clinical study launches, are expected to propel the growth of the market. For instance, in February 2022, BirchBioMed expected to start assessing CRO pitches for a Phase III study of FS2 for topical scarring in around two months. The trial is planned to begin within six months. Additionally, in September 2021, SkinCeuticals, a Medical Skincare Brand, announced the introduction of their latest innovation, Advanced Scar Control. The new semi-occlusive treatment is designed to protect vulnerable skin to help improve the appearance of new and recent scars.
In North America, insurance is covered for several scar treatment products. The submission of a product as per the insurance codes listed for different types of scars and treatment options varies. However, in the case of laser treatment, since the therapy is considered a cosmetic procedure, most insurance companies do not cover the cost of the treatment. There are several procedures under cosmetic dermatology practices, such as soft tissue augmentation fillers, skin needling, and punch excision, which are popular in scar treatment.
Thus, all the aforementioned factors, such as the rising incidence of burns and launches of treatment trials, are expected to boost market growth in the North American region over the forecast period.
