Dry Eye Syndrome Market
Report ID: SQMIG35G2356
Report ID: SQMIG35G2356
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Report ID:
SQMIG35G2356 |
Region:
Global |
Published Date: January, 2026
Pages:
188
|Tables:
90
|Figures:
69
Global Dry Eye Syndrome Market size was valued at USD 8.31 Billion in 2024 and is poised to grow from USD 8.96 Billion in 2025 to USD 16.47 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.9% during the forecast period (2026–2033).
The global dry eye syndrome (DES) market growth is being driven by a structural shift from OTC lubricants to prescription therapies that specifically target inflammatory mechanisms. On the other hand, prescription drug technology is now actually evolving, focusing on the disease-modifying treatments that assist in meibomian gland dysfunction, inflammation at the ocular surface, and tear-film instability.
Further, the market is growing due to the rising global prevalence of dry eye disease, which is age-related and sometimes linked to other health issues. The treatment for dry eye syndrome is in transition, as the category of people over 60 years is the fastest-growing worldwide. Presently, more than 34 million Americans have clinically significant dry eye, and the number of cases is increasing in Europe and East Asia. When the body has undergone chemical changes, long-standing diseases persist in the human body.
Additionally, the global dry eye syndrome industry continues to grow based on favorable regulatory pathways and fast-track approvals for new classes of tear modulators. The FDA and EMA have rolling submissions, real-time oncology review-type meetings, and breakthrough therapy designations for drugs that modulate with action on the eye surface. RASP modulators and mitochondrial protectants are now in phase III trials, with less than ten months' time to conduct the review and grant marketing authorization to them. This short timeframe makes the sector economically attractive for venture investment, with ophthalmology attracting 9% of all biotech capital raised in 2024.
What are the Advantages of TRPM8-Targeting Therapies for DES?
The global dry eye syndrome market outlook has been consistently changing, ushering in other emerging developments-new treatments that have been introduced that address both the symptoms and the underlying etiologies of DES. The approval of TRYPTYR (acoltremon ophthalmic solution) 0.003% by the FDA in May 2025 is a step forward. It is the first eye drop product from Alcon intended to target TRPM8 sensory nerves, which stimulate the potential for secretion of tears. According to the clinical trials, it acts fast as well as increasing dramatically the volume of tears. The effects were noticed as early as the first day. By the third quarter of 2025, Alcon plans to launch the product in the U.S. Subsequently, this product would be launched in several other markets worldwide. This will mark a significant leap in innovations in DES treatment.
Market snapshot - 2026-2033
Global Market Size
USD 7.02 Billion
Largest Segment
Ointments & Gels
Fastest Growth
Eye Drops
Growth Rate
7.1% CAGR
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Global Dry Eye Syndrome Market is segmented by Product, Dosage Form, Distribution Channel and region. Based on Product, the market is segmented into Over the Counter (OTC) Artificial Tears & Lubricants, Prescription Drugs, Punctual Plugs, Nutraceuticals & Omega-3 Supplements and Autologous Serum & Blood-Derived Tear Substitutes. Based on Dosage Form, the market is segmented into Eye Drops and Ointments & Gels. Based on Distribution Channel, the market is segmented into Hospital Pharmacies, Independent Pharmacies & Drug Stores and Online Pharmacies & E-Commerce Portals. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.
As per the 2024 dry eye syndrome market analysis, the over the counter (OTC) artificial tears & lubricants segment recorded as the highest revenue-generating products in the market. This is because they are the most affordable, easily accessible, and immediately offer relief from dry, irritated eyes, hence they are loved by many consumers. Products like Refresh® Tears of Allergan and Systane® Ultra by Alcon sold excellently in 2024 due to the growing tendency of professionals and the public around the world to use digital devices and displays.
However, between 2024 and 2025, the major growth rate will be recorded in prescription drugs segment like cyclosporine and lifitegrast. Long-term effectiveness of treatment among moderate and severe dry eye cases which will be coupled with more physician awareness and increased uptake of hospitals and specialty clinics are driving the aspects related to market growth. The high-potential market will continue to show growth along with the introduction of new products and improved formulations.
As per the 2024 dry eye syndrome market forecast, the eye drops category is the dose form most frequently utilized and generated the greatest revenue. They have become the preferred method of treatment, given their convenience to use, fast relief of symptoms, and widespread availability of retail pharmacies. Products such as Systane® eye drops and Restasis® (cyclosporine), were expected to gain significant popularity because of their use in patients with mild to severe dry eye symptoms, who spend most of their time in front of a screen.
Whereas the ointments & gels category is expected to have the greatest dry eye syndrome market share. These formulations provide longer-lasting lubrication in patients with severe dry eyes, symptom relief, and comfort while sleeping. The increased adoption of these formulations in a clinic and hospital setting is attributed to improved patient adherence and recognition of potential treatments for long-term dry eye syndrome.
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As per the dry eye syndrome market regional analysis, due to rising screen time, population aging, and upgrading eye care systems, North America held the largest market share. The more one has access to a prescription such as Restasis® or an over-the-counter artificial tear such as Systane®, the more likely that person will want to use it. New dry eye products were added by Bausch + Lomb in the U.S. in April 2024 and are now more accessible via pharmacies and retail stores. This potent pipeline of new ideas will allow the company to hold its position as a market leader.
With FDA approvals and wide acceptance of the treatment, the United States is currently the largest dry eye syndrome industry. MediTears®, approved by the FDA in 2024, is a cyclosporine-based eye drop for the treatment of moderate-to-severe dry eye. With screen use, particularly among remote workers, more people than ever are looking for over-the-counter treatments like Refresh® Tears. Considering that the bulk of drug sales in the U.S. continue to occur in hospital and retail pharmacies, their prescription and over-the-counter medication straddles the U.S. market with maximum availability.
As there is rising use of OTC lubricants and an increasing number of awareness campaigns on screen-induced visual fatigue, the dry eye syndrome sector in Canada is steadily growing. Alcon partnered with optometry practices in Canada to boost the sale of Systane® Hydration eye drops. These healthcare activities that create awareness about eye care have also contributed to even greater prescriptions by elderly patients. This mix of new product launches coupled with public health support will aid this company's growth.
Asia-Pacific, more so today than ever with urbanization, pollution, and screen time, is expanding. Prescription medication and over-the-counter lubricants are more common in China, South Korea, and India. CyclASol® eye drops made their debut in China in 2024 by Novaliq, a landmark achievement for the treatment of advanced dry eye. This was indeed a big step for the company in Asia. Fast growth momentum will sustain until 2025 due to demand from consumers for effective solutions and investments in healthcare.
The dry eye syndrome market of South Korea is characterized by technological advancement and bulk prescription. According to Samsung Medical Center, 2024 witnessed a substantial increase in cases of screen-induced dry eye perhaps to greater use of advanced treatments like lifitegrast. Meanwhile, OTC products remain in favor for mild conditions. Although hospital-based eye care systems are developing, the steady increase in market awareness programs is expected to support the market.
The dry eye syndrome market in China is booming due to heavy urban migration, hours in front of screens, and pollution. Most sales of lubricants are OTC while prescriptions are climbing up. More urban consumers began purchasing Alcon's Systane® Complete eye drops in China around late 2024. China's influence on the growth of Asia-Pacific is notable because of government health initiatives that assist getting eye care and new products from big companies that further accelerate this growth.
The dry eye syndrome market slowly develops in Europe due to the aging population and government focus on safe and efficacious treatment. In 2024, it enhanced the availability of preservative-free eye drops from Laboratoires Théa by further expanding into other EU countries. Stable growth relies on significant use of prescription and OTC medications. More sophisticated medications are securing a long-term growth plan for the DES treatment business, wherein hospitals and clinics serve as key players.
As the new generation increasingly understands the consequences of digital eye strain, the market in the UK is growing at a steady pace. Significant sales of Hylo-Tear® and other OTC lubricants were reported by Boots UK pharmacies in 2024, cementing retail channel reliance. Hospitals, at the same time, are offering the most innovative treatments to their very ill patients. Balanced growth made through awareness campaigns and a larger prescription eye drop-using populace cement the UK's significant role in European industry.
A stout healthcare infrastructure and the early adoption of novel times support France's dry eye syndrome market. Many French people with moderate to severe dry eye were taking Xiidra®, a prescription medication, in 2024. Steady growth is mainly attributed to the use of OTC lubricants for screen-induced dry skin and increasing demand from the elderly. Increased retail presence and better clinical service utilization are expected to support a steady growth trend for France.
With a high degree of innovation and many users on prescription medicines, Germany ranks as one of the largest markets in Europe. In 2024 Ursapharm opened over the counter and hospital sales for Hylo® Eye Care range. For chronic dry eye sufferers, this made it easy to use the products. Also being researched are more complex therapeutics such as TRPM8-targeting drops. Together with low regulation, high healthcare spending, and patient awareness initiatives, Germany continues to be at the forefront of the male dry eye syndrome in Europe.
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Rising Incidence and Aging Population
Novel Innovations and Medications
Low Rates of Prescriptions and Inadequate Diagnoses
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Noted among the top-ranking companies in the DES market are Novartis, Johnson & Vision, Bausch + Lomb, AbbVie/Allergan, Santen, and Alcon. These market players possess marketing presence, clinical pathways, and distribution across the globe. Through the use of novel distribution systems and innovative techniques, mid-sized companies such as Kala, Novaliq, and Oyster Point/Viatris hope to differentiate themselves within the industry. Competitive dry eye syndrome market strategies derive from gaining approval for novel compounds, growing lines, partnering with platforms and devices, and venturing into new markets for the conversion of over-the-counter users into prescription and clinic-based care.
SkyQuest’s ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Services team that Collects, Collates, Correlates, and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.
As per SkyQuest analysis, the dry eye syndrome market is growing. While a long-term shift toward prescription, disease-modifying agents and better delivery platforms have transformed how long-term value is generated. Over the counter (OTC) medications for symptom management continue to drive near-term sales. North America is the leader by both sales and innovation, although Asia-Pacific is growing rapidly and has recently brought several new drugs to market (such as TRYPTYR, officially approved by the FDA in 2025), which is helping spur adoption in practice. Although payer reimbursement scrutiny, under-diagnosis, and regulatory hurdles/confusion remain concern, sustained-released devices and product advancements from both start-ups and established companies have been increasing the number of available treatments. Overall, there appears to be a bifurcated market developing: the more expensive clinician-dispensed form for moderate to severe dry eye disease, and the OTC option for mild dry eye disease.
| Report Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Market size value in 2024 | USD 8.31 Billion |
| Market size value in 2033 | USD 16.47 Billion |
| Growth Rate | 7.9% |
| Base year | 2024 |
| Forecast period | 2026-2033 |
| Forecast Unit (Value) | USD Billion |
| Segments covered |
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| Regions covered | North America (US, Canada), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC Countries, Rest of MEA) |
| Companies covered |
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| Customization scope | Free report customization with purchase. Customization includes:-
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Table Of Content
Executive Summary
Market overview
Parent Market Analysis
Market overview
Market size
KEY MARKET INSIGHTS
COVID IMPACT
MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK
Market Size by Region
KEY COMPANY PROFILES
Methodology
For the Dry Eye Syndrome Market, our research methodology involved a mixture of primary and secondary data sources. Key steps involved in the research process are listed below:
1. Information Procurement: This stage involved the procurement of Market data or related information via primary and secondary sources. The various secondary sources used included various company websites, annual reports, trade databases, and paid databases such as Hoover's, Bloomberg Business, Factiva, and Avention. Our team did 45 primary interactions Globally which included several stakeholders such as manufacturers, customers, key opinion leaders, etc. Overall, information procurement was one of the most extensive stages in our research process.
2. Information Analysis: This step involved triangulation of data through bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and validate the total size and future estimate of the Dry Eye Syndrome Market.
3. Report Formulation: The final step entailed the placement of data points in appropriate Market spaces in an attempt to deduce viable conclusions.
4. Validation & Publishing: Validation is the most important step in the process. Validation & re-validation via an intricately designed process helped us finalize data points to be used for final calculations. The final Market estimates and forecasts were then aligned and sent to our panel of industry experts for validation of data. Once the validation was done the report was sent to our Quality Assurance team to ensure adherence to style guides, consistency & design.
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With the given market data, our dedicated team of analysts can offer you the following customization options are available for the Dry Eye Syndrome Market:
Product Analysis: Product matrix, which offers a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of companies.
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