Medical Stick-to-Skin Adhesives Market Size, Share & Trends

Market Growth Outlook Summary

The global medical stick-to-skin adhesives market growth forecasted to transform from $2.4 billion in 2023 to $3.7 billion by 2029, driven by a CAGR of 7.5%. The increasing prevalence of chronic wounds, surgical procedures, and the growing aging population contribute to the rising demand for advanced wound care solutions, spurring market growth. The shift toward minimally invasive medical procedures and wearable medical devices further propels the demand for gentle, skin-friendly adhesives that ensure patient comfort and long-term wearability.

Medical Stick-to-Skin Adhesives Market Trends

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Medical Stick-To-Skin Adhesives Market Dynamics

Driver: Increasing demand for minimally invasive surgical procedures

The increasing demand for minimally invasive surgical procedures (MIS) is a significant driving force behind the growth of the market. MIS, also known as keyhole surgery, offers numerous advantages over traditional open surgeries, including smaller incisions, reduced pain, shorter recovery times, and fewer complications. These benefits have led to a growing preference for MIS among patients and healthcare providers alike.

One of the major benefits of medical stick-to-skin adhesives in MIS is their ability to conform to the contours of the skin, providing a precise and secure closure. This is particularly important for minimally invasive procedures performed on delicate areas of the body, such as facial plastic surgery or laparoscopic abdominal surgery. For instance, in laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a common procedure for removing the gallbladder, medical adhesives are used to close the incision site after the gallbladder has been removed. Similarly, in arthroscopic knee surgery, where surgeons repair damaged cartilage or ligaments, medical adhesives are employed to close the incisions made for accessing the knee joint.

The growing popularity of MIS can be attributed to several factors, including advancements in surgical techniques, the availability of sophisticated surgical instruments and equipment, and the increasing demand for cosmetic procedures. According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons, MIS accounted for over 80% of all surgeries performed in the United States.

Thus, the increasing adoption of MIS and the development of advanced medical stick-to-skin adhesives are poised to drive growth in the market. As MIS continues to gain popularity, the demand for these adhesives will also increase, paving the way for further innovation and development in this rapidly expanding market.

Restraint: Regulatory compliance and safety concerns

The medical stick-to-skin adhesives market is subject to stringent regulatory requirements imposed by medical device agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). These regulations aim to ensure the safety and efficacy of medical devices, including medical stick-to-skin adhesives. However, complying with these regulations can be a time-consuming and expensive process, which can hinder the development and marketing of new products.

Furthermore, safety concerns related to medical stick-to-skin adhesives also pose challenges for the market. While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to these adhesives. Additionally, there is a risk of skin irritation or infection if the adhesives are not applied properly. These safety concerns can make healthcare providers and patients hesitant to use medical stick-to-skin adhesives.

According to a 2022 report by the FDA, there were over 1,000 medical device recalls related to adverse events in 2021. Of these recalls, approximately 10% were related to skin closure devices, including medical stick-to-skin adhesives. These recalls were due to various reasons, including allergic reactions, skin irritation, and product defects.

In conclusion, regulatory compliance and safety concerns pose significant challenges to the growth of the market. However, companies are actively developing innovative products and implementing robust quality control measures to address these concerns and meet regulatory requirements. By prioritizing safety and compliance, manufacturers can gain the trust of healthcare providers and patients, contributing to the continued growth of the market.

Opportunity: Expanding healthcare infrastructure in emerging markets

Emerging markets, characterized by rapidly developing economies and growing populations, are presenting significant opportunities for the market. The expansion of healthcare infrastructure in these regions is creating a favorable environment for the adoption of advanced medical technologies, including medical stick-to-skin adhesives.

As healthcare infrastructure expands in emerging markets, the availability of surgical procedures and advanced wound care services is increasing. This growth in surgical procedures and wound care services is driving the demand for medical stick-to-skin adhesives, which offer several advantages over traditional suturing and stapling methods, such as reduced pain, minimal scarring, and ease of application. The expansion of healthcare infrastructure in emerging markets is evident in various statistics. According to a 2023 report by the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of healthcare facilities in low-income countries increased by an average of 3.4% per year between 2010 and 2020. This growth in healthcare facilities is creating a demand for advanced medical technologies, including medical stick-to-skin adhesives.

Country-level statistics also highlight the expansion of healthcare infrastructure in emerging markets. For instance, in India, the number of hospitals increased from 51,176 in 2019 to 59,155 in 2020, representing a 15.5% growth. Similarly, in China, the number of hospitals increased from 24,996 in 2019 to 25,834 in 2020, representing a 3.4% growth.

In conclusion, the expanding healthcare infrastructure in emerging markets is creating significant opportunities for the market. As healthcare facilities become more accessible and advanced wound care services become more prevalent, the demand for medical stick-to-skin adhesives is expected to grow rapidly.

Challenge: Ensuring adhesion and skin-friendliness

Ensuring optimal adhesion while maintaining skin-friendliness is a significant challenge for the market. These adhesives must strike a delicate balance between providing secure attachment and being gentle on the patient's skin. Adhesives that are too strong can cause skin trauma or discomfort, while those that are too gentle may not provide sufficient adhesion, leading to device detachment or dressings falling off prematurely. This challenge is particularly evident in applications like wearable medical devices and wound care. For example, wearable devices such as continuous glucose monitors and ECG electrodes require strong, long-lasting adhesion to ensure accurate data collection, but they must also be comfortable to wear for extended periods.

According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, medical adhesive-related skin injuries (MARSI) occur in up to 15% of patients undergoing surgical procedures. These injuries can range from mild skin irritation to severe blistering and ulceration. The study highlights the potential risks associated with using medical stick-to-skin adhesives and the importance of developing adhesives that are both effective and skin-friendly.

In wound care, the need for adhesive dressings that securely stay in place while promoting wound healing and minimizing skin irritation is crucial. Companies like 3M (US), Avery Dennison Corporation (US), and Scapa Healthcare (UK) invest in research and development to create advanced adhesives that address these challenges. Developing adhesives that combine the necessary adhesion strength with skin-friendliness is a complex task, as different patients have varying skin types and sensitivities. It requires continuous innovation and testing to strike the right balance. Despite the challenges, the demand for such adhesive products continues to grow, and the market seeks to overcome these obstacles by developing adhesive solutions that meet both the functional and comfort needs of patients.

Medical Stick-To-Skin Adhesives Market Ecosystem

Prominent companies in this market include 3M Company (US), Scapa Healthcare (Mativ Holdings, Inc.) (UK), Johnson & Johnson (US), Avery Dennison Corporation (US), Smith & Nephew PLC (UK), Nitto Denko Corporation (Japan), DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (US), Medtronic Plc (Ireland), B. Braun Melsungen AG (Germany), and Henkel AG & Co. KGaA (Germany).

The acrylic-based segment of the medical stick-to-skin adhesives industry accounted for the largest share of the product market.

The acrylic-based medical stick-to-skin adhesives market is driven by several key factors and trends. First, the increasing demand for advanced wound care solutions and the growing prevalence of chronic diseases are significant drivers. Acrylic adhesives offer strong and secure skin adhesion, making them valuable for applications in wound dressings and medical tapes. Additionally, the rising geriatric population, with a higher incidence of chronic wounds, contributes to market growth.

Furthermore, the trend toward minimally invasive medical procedures and the expansion of wearable medical devices are boosting the demand for skin-friendly adhesives. Acrylic-based adhesives provide a balance between adhesion strength and gentle removal, making them suitable for long-term wearables.

The hospitals & clinics segment of the medical stick-to-skin adhesives industry accounted for the largest share in the application market.

The increasing prevalence of chronic wounds, surgical procedures, and the rising geriatric population are contributing to the expanding demand for advanced wound care solutions. Technological advancements in adhesive formulations, such as hydrocolloid and hydrogel adhesives, are enhancing the efficacy of these products in promoting optimal wound healing.

Moreover, the trend towards minimally invasive procedures and the growing adoption of wearable medical devices are bolstering the demand for gentle, yet secure, skin adhesives.

The specialized adhesives segment accounted for the largest share of the medical stick-to-skin adhesives market.

The medical stick-to-skin adhesives market for specialized adhesives is experiencing significant growth driven by several key factors. One major driver is the increasing demand for wearable medical devices and remote patient monitoring systems. The rise of these technologies necessitates specialized adhesives that are skin-friendly, durable, and provide secure attachment for extended periods.

Another driver is the growing focus on advanced wound care solutions. Specialized adhesives play a crucial role in wound dressings, offering features like moisture management and gentle skin adhesion, thereby contributing to enhanced patient comfort and improved healing outcomes.

North America is expected to account for the largest share of the medical stick-to-skin adhesives industry.

The medical stick-to-skin adhesives market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & and Africa. In 2022, the North American region accounted for the largest share of the market. Government initiative to boost the adoption of advanced technology like medical stick-to-skin adhesives, increased healthcare expenditure, and a rise in healthcare research, is expected to boost the market in this region. Additionally, North America's strong research and development capabilities foster innovation in the sector.

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The prominent players in the medical stick-to-skin adhesives market are 3M Company (US), Scapa Healthcare (Mativ Holdings, Inc.) (UK), Johnson & Johnson (US), Avery Dennison Corporation (US), Smith & Nephew PLC (UK), Nitto Denko Corporation (Japan), DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (US), Medtronic Plc (Ireland), B. Braun Melsungen AG (Germany), Henkel AG & Co. KGaA (Germany), Gelita Medical (Germany), Lohmann & Rauscher (Germany), Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc (UK), Nichiban Co., Ltd. (Japan), Polymer Science, Inc. (US), Adhezion Biomedical, LLC (US), MBK Tape Solutions (Boyd) (US), Tapecon, Inc. (US), Chemence Medical, Inc. (US), Parafix (UK), Berry Global Inc. (US), DermaMed Coatings Company, LLC (US), Paul Hartmann AG (Germany), Mactac (US), Sekisui Kasei Co., Ltd. (Japan), Shurtape Technologies, LLC (US) and Adhesives Research, Inc. (US). These players include high shares in the market due to strategic mergers, acquisitions, partnerships, and large distribution channels adopted by them. This also leads to an increase in their geographic reach.

Scope of the Medical Stick-to-Skin Adhesives Industry

The research report categorizes the medical stick-to-skin adhesives market to forecast revenue and analyze trends in each of the following submarkets:

By Product

• Acrylic-Based
• Silicone-Based
• Rubber-Based
• Hydrogel-based
• Others

By Backing Material

• Paper
• Fabric
• Plastic
• Other Materials

By Type

• Electrode Adhesives
• Transdermal Drug Delivery Adhesives
• Specialized Adhesives

By Application

• Surgery
• Wound Dressing
• Ostomy Seals
• Other Applications

By End User

• Hospitals & Clinics
• Home Care Settings
• Other End Users

By Region

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • UK
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of LATAM
• Middle East and Africa

Recent Developments of Medical Stick-to-Skin Adhesives Industry

• In October 2023, DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (US) launched a new DuPont Liveo MG 7-9960 Soft Skin Adhesive. The higher-adhesion, low-cyclic soft silicone skin adhesive (SSA) is designed for advanced wound care dressings and adhering medical devices to the skin for long wear time and gentle removal.
• In July 2023, H.B. Fuller Company (US) acquired Adhezion Biomedical, LLC (US). The acquisition will help H.B. Fuller expand its capabilities in the fast-growing healthcare adhesives market.
• In February 2023, 3M Company (US) launched 3M Medical Tape 4578, a new adhesive tape that can stick to the skin for up to 28 days for use with medical monitors, sensors, and wearables.
• In November 2022, Avery Dennison Corporation (US) launched MED 5740, MED 5741, and MED 5742 at the Medica International Trade Fair at Messe Düsseldorf. These products are single-coated adhesive materials designed for long-term, multi-week wear.

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