Liquid bandages are used on small burns, scrapes, and wounds to speed healing and prevent infection. A mixture of solvents and polymers makes up liquid bandages, which form a flexible, protective barrier over the wound. There are various types of liquid bandages that can be applied with a foam applicator, spray-on liquid bandages, and brush-on liquid bandages. These bandages can be used on humans and animals both. The need for such liquid bandages has been gradually developing in recent years due to reasons including increased knowledge of the value of wound care, an increase in accidents and injuries, and the creation of cutting-edge wound care solutions that provide better advantages than conventional bandages. Owing to such use cases, the demand for liquid bandages is increasing. For instance, the global liquid bandage market was valued at $134.0 million in 2021 and is growing at a CAGR of 2.2% during the forecast period (2022-2028).
Key Drivers of the Liquid Bandages Market
Increasing Prevalence of Oral Diseases
The market for liquid bandages has expanded as oral cavities like tooth decay and gingivitis become more common. For instance, according to the World Health Organization’s Global Oral Health Status Report (2022), oral diseases affect approximately 3.5 billion people. According to the same source, oral cancer, which includes tumors of the lip, various oral tissues, and oropharynx, is the 13th most prevalent cancer overall. In 2020, there were around 177,757 fatal cases and 377,713 new cases of lip and oral cavity cancer globally.
Owing to this, liquid bandages created specifically for oral usage can assist to shield and cover minor erosions and lesions in the mouth, relieving discomfort and promoting healing. Moreover, these bandages are used to help apply topical treatments to the affected area. Hence, the need for liquid bandages as an easy-to-use method of treating oral wounds is anticipated to rise as the prevalence of oral cavities rises, which would help the liquid bandage market’s growth.
Advanced Liquid Bandages
The creation of cutting-edge wound care solutions, such as liquid bandages, is a key market driver. As compared to conventional bandages, these solutions provide significant advantages, such as quicker healing periods, improved infection control, and more convenience. For instance, GNC Pets offers Advanced Liquid Bandage Spray for Dogs. This bandage helps to seal wounds from irritants and has a quick-drying formula. Additionally, KeriCure offers KeriCure Advanced Seal Liquid Bandage for humans. This liquid bandage provides several benefits, including flexibility and breathability for patient comfort, waterproofing, exudate absorption to speed up wound healing, and a clear film to prevent bacterial growth and enable healing process monitoring. Moreover, its hydrogel qualities aid in autolytic debridement and scar reduction.
Increasing Preference for Organic and Natural Bandages
In recent years, there has been an increase in consumer preference for organic and natural products, which has had an effect on the liquid bandage market. Customers are choosing natural and organic alternatives as they become more aware of the components and materials utilized in healthcare items. Owing to this, natural liquid bandages produced with aloe vera and tea tree oil that provide the same advantages as conventional liquid bandages have been developed by market players. For instance, New Skin, a liquid bandage brand, offers the NEW-SKIN Botanicals Liquid Bandage. Using components like aloe, chamomile, and lavender, this liquid bandage seals wounds and creates a waterproof protective barrier while offering soothing, sting-free wound treatment. It can be applied to a variety of skin problems, including blisters, calluses, and chapped skin. It dries rapidly, is clear, and matches any skin tone. It is also alcohol- and drug-free.
Additionally, water-based polymers are also another material used for natural liquid bandages, which is used by liquid bandage companies. For instance, KeriCure offers the Natural Seal Liquid Bandage for kids and adults. This bandage combines an organic polymer barrier with water's natural healing qualities. This mixture reduces skin rashes and irritations while simultaneously forming a highly elastic barrier that keeps out dirt and bacteria to prevent infections. This water-based spray creates a moisture barrier to seal in moisture and hydrates dry, cracked skin, including eczema and psoriasis symptoms.
Expansions and Innovations by Major Market Players
The liquid bandages market has significant contributors such as Kobayashi, Co.; Chemence; Advance Health; Taisho, Co.; Molnlycke Health Care; Schulke & Mayr GmbH; and Haishi Hainuo, among others. These players assist in the market’s growth with the launch of new products and through collaborations and investments. Some of the recent developments in the market include-
• In March 2023, BC3 Technologies announced its plans to launch the SEAL, a hemostatic wound spray. By the end of 2023, the company intends to produce 50,000–100,000 cans of the spray. The company received Food and Drug Administration clearance for the SEAL in February 2023. Chitosan, a key component of crab shells, is used in the SEAL aerosol cans to promote blood clotting and seal a cut to prevent bleeding.
• In May 2022, New Skin introduced the Kids Liquid Bandage Paint, which is a painless, colorful bandage that can be painted on to treat injuries and stop infection. All sizes of wounds and scrapes can be treated with the liquid bandage, which comes in a vivid purple shade. The bandage is waterproof, quick-drying, and drug-free. The liquid bandage can reach tight spaces and allows the skin to breathe. Additionally, it naturally comes off, saving kids from having to go through the uncomfortable removal process.