What is Aesthetic Medicine?
Aesthetic medicine encompasses a wide range of treatments and procedures aimed at enhancing and improving one’s physical appearance. Unlike plastic surgery, which often involves invasive procedures, aesthetic medicine focuses on minimally invasive and non-invasive techniques to achieve desired results.
This field includes treatments such as Botox injections, laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, and body contouring. With advancements in technology and increasing demand for non-surgical solutions, the aesthetic medicine market is experiencing significant growth.
How Big is the Market?
The market for energy-based non-invasive medical aesthetic treatments is substantial and continues to expand. According to Technavio, the global energy-based non-invasive medical aesthetic treatment system market is set to grow by £1.44 billion from 2023 to 2027. This growth is driven by the increasing awareness and availability of these advanced treatment systems, which offer effective solutions for various skin and body concerns without the need for surgery.
Key players in the market include well-known companies such as AbbVie Inc., Bausch Health Co Inc., and Johnson and Johnson, among others. These companies are investing heavily in research and development to introduce innovative technologies and maintain their market position. The popularity of these treatments is particularly high in developed regions like North America and Europe, where there is a strong emphasis on healthcare and personal appearance.
How Much is it Supposed to Grow?
The global energy-based non-invasive medical aesthetic treatment system market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 11.11% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2027. This impressive growth rate highlights the increasing demand for non-surgical aesthetic solutions. The market is being driven by a combination of factors, including advancements in technology, growing disposable incomes, and a rising geriatric population seeking anti-aging treatments.
One of the major drivers of this market is the demand for skin rejuvenation treatments. As individuals become more conscious of their appearance and seek to counteract the effects of aging, treatments like intense pulsed light (IPL) photofacials and laser skin resurfacing are gaining popularity. These treatments help to reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture, and stimulate collagen production, offering a youthful and revitalised appearance.
What are the Challenges?
Despite the promising growth prospects, the market for energy-based non-invasive medical aesthetic treatments faces several challenges. One of the primary challenges is the significant investment required to offer these advanced treatments. The technologies used, such as ultrasound, lasers, and radiofrequency (RF), are costly to develop and maintain. Healthcare providers (HCPs) must regularly update their systems to meet customer demands for the latest treatments, leading to substantial ongoing expenses.
Another challenge is the strong position of raw material suppliers, which limits the bargaining power of vendors and drives up production costs. This, in turn, increases the cost for HCPs and ultimately the end consumers. Additionally, the market faces competition from alternative cosmetic treatments such as injectables (e.g., Botox and dermal fillers) and cosmetic surgery. These alternatives offer different benefits and appeal to a broad range of consumers, posing a challenge to the market growth of energy-based treatments.
The Rise of Non-Invasive Skin Rejuvenation
Skin rejuvenation is one of the fastest-growing segments in the energy-based non-invasive medical aesthetic treatment market. The demand for anti-aging solutions among individuals aged 30 to 65 is escalating, driven by factors such as UV radiation exposure, pollution, and the natural aging process. Advanced energy-based systems, utilising light waves, ultrasound, and RF technology, are being developed to address these skin concerns effectively.
Treatments such as IPL photofacials and laser skin resurfacing are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to reduce sun damage, minimise wrinkles, and improve skin elasticity. Companies like Alma Lasers are leading the way with innovative solutions such as the Pixel CO2, PicoClear, and Harmony XL PRO. However, the market’s growth is somewhat hindered by the scarcity of adequately trained healthcare professionals and the need for more clinical evidence to support the effectiveness of these systems.
The Growing Popularity of Hair Removal Treatments
Hair removal is another significant application within the energy-based non-invasive medical aesthetic treatment market. Traditional methods like waxing and shaving are being replaced by more advanced and long-lasting solutions such as laser hair removal and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments. These energy-based devices offer precision and efficacy, providing permanent hair reduction with minimal discomfort.
The demand for hair removal treatments is driven by both men and women seeking smooth, hair-free skin. Devices like the LightSheer QUATTRO and SPLENDOR X for hair removal, showcased by Lumenis, demonstrate the advanced capabilities of these systems. The increasing popularity of these treatments is contributing significantly to the overall growth of the aesthetic medicine market.
Highly Competitive
The market for energy-based non-invasive medical aesthetic treatments is growing rapidly, driven by technological advancements and increasing consumer demand for non-surgical solutions. However, as the market expands, competition is becoming tougher. More and more companies are entering the market, particularly in the UK, leading to increased innovation and a broader range of treatment options for consumers.
Despite the challenges of high initial investments and ongoing costs, the market’s future looks promising. With continuous advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on personal appearance, energy-based non-invasive treatments are set to remain a popular choice for individuals seeking effective and minimally invasive aesthetic enhancements.
