Surgical Masks Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Basic, Anti-fog Foam, Fluid/Splash Resistant, Others), By Distribution Channel (Online, Offline), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030

Surgical Masks Market Size & Trends

The global surgical masks market size was valued at USD 1.08 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% from 2023 to 2030. The growth of the market can be attributed to improved healthcare expenditure as well as the increasing significance of respiratory protection in the healthcare industry, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the governments of the affected countries resorted to social distancing and lockdowns, which impacted global supply chains. Stringent measures were taken by the governments to minimize loss of life and reduce virus transmission. Additionally, the pandemic led to a major economic crisis worldwide.

The U.S. was one of the most severely affected countries by COVID-19, leading to a rapid spread of infections and increased demand for surgical masks to help stop further transmission. Moreover, healthcare spending in the U.S. is the highest in the world, which is expected to positively influence the demand for surgical masks in the healthcare sector.

To cope with the high demand for masks, the government authorities took several steps to maintain an adequate supply of the product. For instance, the U.S. enacted special laws such as the Defense Production Act (DPA) to boost PPE production and restrict the export of scarce medical resources for domestic use. Many PPE manufacturing companies worked closely with the government to bridge the demand-supply gap of masks by increasing production capacities and expanding manufacturing facilities.

Furthermore, various fashion and workwear companies also shifted their focus to the production of surgical masks to meet the escalating demand. These factors are expected to drive the market in the country.

Product Insights

The basic surgical masks segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 43.0% in 2022. Basic surgical masks are sold through several distribution channels and are conveniently available across hospitals and other pharmacies, retail outlets, and online distribution platforms. These masks provide basic protection to the wearer from the surrounding environment and are less expensive as compared to other surgical masks.

The fluid/splash-resistant surgical masks segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period. Fluid/splash-resistant surgical masks reduce potential exposure to blood and other body fluids caused by spattering, spray, or splashes during surgeries and medical procedures. They are intended for use in procedure rooms and cardiac labs, where a high level of protection from fluids is required. These masks provide barrier protection against respiratory droplets/splashes.

The anti-fog foam surgical mask segment is expected to expand at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period. It creates a seal between the user’s face and the mask to avoid fogging. Foam, adhesive, or film technology used in these masks prevents moisture from seeping out of the top of the mask, maintaining optical clarity and preventing fogging of the spectacles.

Other products include hi-filtration surgical masks, surgical masks with expanded chambers, and cone-style surgical masks. Hi-filtration products offer submicron filtration and are often used in healthcare facilities for protection against air-borne diseases. Airborne diseases account for a significant share of all healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs). HAIs can increase direct medical costs as well as costs related to low productivity among staff members and patients.

Distribution Channel Insights

The offline segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 55.2% in 2022. This segment comprises hospital pharmacies, drug stores, retail stores, and over-the-counter pharmacies. Due to their ease and popularity with consumers, offline distribution channels are anticipated to play a significant role in market expansion.

The governments of nations that had been severely affected by the pandemic, including India, Russia, Italy, Germany, the U.S., and Brazil, provided subsidies to retailers so that they could deliver goods to hospitals. Several market participants, including Ansell Ltd., O&M Halyard, Cardinal Health, and Crosstex International, Inc., collaborated closely with hospitals, major drugstore chains, and retail outlets to sustain the market's supply of masks and other vital medical supplies.

The online segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period. Increasing internet and e-commerce penetration is expected to have a positive impact on segment growth. In addition, owing to COVID-19, governments across the globe promoted the purchase of essential products, including PPE, through online portals to prevent transmission of the virus by maintaining norms of lockdown and social distancing.

Manufacturers of surgical masks are utilizing online platforms for product delivery and order taking, either through affiliated websites or their own. Many industry participants have listed their products on various internet platforms, including 3M and O&M Halyard, Inc. Companies are investing extensively in the development of their logistics and supply chain setup in order to keep up with deliveries of medical necessities, working closely with governments.

Regional Insights

Europe dominated the market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 34.4 % in 2022. The rising number of qualified nurses and midwives, associate nurses, and other care professionals is responsible for the increased demand for these products in Europe during the forecast period.

Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period. Major factors contributing to the growth of surgical masks include growing healthcare infrastructure, including hospitals and clinics, an increasing number of people opting for home care facilities, and rising medical tourism in the region.

North America was one of the most severely affected regions in the world by COVID-19. The rapid spread of COVID-19 in the region boosted the demand. Factors such as rising healthcare expenditure, increasing elderly population, and growing awareness pertaining to healthcare-acquired infections among healthcare workers are anticipated to drive the regional market.

Central & South America is anticipated to grow at a significant rate during the forecast period. The demand for healthcare services in Central & South America is increasing owing to several factors such as the rising elderly population, lower birth rates, growing instances of non-communicable and chronic diseases, and expanding healthcare coverage. Thus, improving healthcare infrastructure, coupled with the expanding healthcare industry, is expected to benefit the growth of the market in the region during the forecast period.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The market for surgical masks is highly competitive due to the presence of both multinational and regional or local manufacturers. Manufacturers focus on new product development, integration across various stages of the value chain, and mergers and acquisitions to gain a competitive edge in the market. Strategies adopted by the companies usually include product portfolio expansion, partnerships, and distribution network expansion.

For instance, in April 2020, DuPont partnered with Cummins Inc. to provide critical material used for manufacturing N95 respirator masks for healthcare professionals, which aid in filtering various airborne particles and help in preventing the spread of COVID-19. Some prominent players in the global surgical masks market include:

• 3M

• DuPont

• Ansell Ltd.

• Owens & Minor

• Medline Industries, LP.

• Cardinal Health

• Crosstex International, Inc.

• KCWW

• ALPHAPROTECH

• Dynarex Corporation

Recent Developments

• In May 2022, ClearMask, LLC, unveiled the "ClearMask Transparent Surgical Mask Plus," a cutting-edge addition to their expanding line of transparent masks. This innovative surgical mask is equipped with anti-fog technology, ensuring clear visibility. It boasts a secure fit, facilitating effective communication, while also providing affordable protection.

• In May 2022, Honeywell International Inc. expanded its portfolio of personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare professionals, by introducing two cutting-edge respiratory products i.e., DC365 Small Surgical N95 Respirator and the RU8500X series. These products have received NIOSH certification, demonstrating their high-quality performance and effectiveness in safeguarding healthcare workers. These new additions further strengthen Honeywell's commitment to providing enhanced protection for those on the frontlines of healthcare.

• In June 2021, KARAM Safety Pvt. Ltd. marked its entry into the surgical mask market with the release of its new product, the IS-certified 3-Ply surgical face mask. The face mask was created using approved IS 16289:2014 standards and is comfortable to use for extended periods of time while providing the greatest level of protection for healthcare professionals and the general public.

Surgical Masks Market Report Scope

Global Surgical Masks Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global surgical masks market report based on product, distribution channel, and region:

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Basic Surgical Masks

  • Anti-fog Foam Surgical Masks

  • Fluid/Splash Resistant Surgical Masks

  • Others

• Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Online

  • Offline

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

    • Italy

    • Russia

    • Spain

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • India

    • Japan

    • South Korea

    • Australia

    • Thailand

    • Indonesia

    • Malaysia

  • Central & South America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East and Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • South Africa