Hand Sanitizer Market Assessment, By Type [Alcohol Based Hand Sanitizers, Alcohol Free Hand Sanitizers], By Formulation [Gel, Foam, Liquid, Wipes], By Packaging Type [Sachet, Bottle, Box, Others], By Pack Size [Upto 100 ml, 101 ml – 300 ml, 301 ml – 500 m

Hand Sanitizer Market Assessment, By Type [Alcohol Based Hand Sanitizers, Alcohol Free Hand Sanitizers], By Formulation [Gel, Foam, Liquid, Wipes], By Packaging Type [Sachet, Bottle, Box, Others], By Pack Size [Upto 100 ml, 101 ml – 300 ml, 301 ml – 500 ml, Above 500 ml], By Distribution Channel [Online, Offline], By End-user [Households, Schools and Educational Institutions, Hospitals and Healthcare Centers, Corporate Offices, Hotels and Restaurants, Others], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2017-2031F

Global hand sanitizer market size was valued at USD 5.3 billion in 2023, expected to reach USD 8.84 billion in 2031, with a CAGR of 6.6% for the forecast period between 2024 and 2031. The hand sanitizer market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing awareness of hand hygiene, especially post pandemic. Furthermore, health and safety concerns of the consumer have led to the widespread use of hand sanitizer in various industries such as hospitals, schools, households, and others.

Increasing preference for plant based and organic personal care products also adds to the growing innovations in hand sanitizers market. Considering the increasing health concerns among people, in March 2022, PURELL introduced new foam hand sanitizers to expand its consumer portfolio. The product is designed with a 91% plant-based ethanol formula to help consumers eradicate germs from their hands. Furthermore, the product has a USDA-Certified Biobased Formulation made with naturally renewable ethanol. Recyclable 10 oz hand sanitizer pump bottles are available at Walmart, Target, and CVS.

Major players in the market have expanded their product offerings to cater to diverse preferences, leading to the formulation of gel, liquid, and foam sanitizers. Innovations like touchless dispensers and eco-friendly packaging have gained demand. The market shifted towards natural and organic designs, reflecting a growing preference for sustainable and skin-friendly products.

Europe accounts for the second largest share in the hand sanitizer market, with the United Kingdom and Germany expected to dominate the market owing to the growing health concerns of the consumers in addition to the refillable options, eco-friendly packaging, or formulations that use sustainable and natural materials due to growing environmental consciousness.

For instance, in May 2022, UK-based, I Love Cosmetics Ltd introduced a new Hand Sanitizer designed to combat infections and safeguard users. With 70% alcohol content, it claims to eradicate 99.9% of bacteria. The product includes Vitamin E and moisturizers, ensuring soft and smooth hands. It is available in various sizes, including a 100ml travel-friendly options and 500ml and 5-litre refill packs for home use.

Growing Health and Hygiene Awareness Drive the Demand for Hand Sanitizers

The need for hand sanitizers has increased due to the growing awareness of personal hygiene. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the emphasis on cleanliness and health worldwide, which has led to a widespread understanding of the value of hand hygiene. Sanitizers provide an easy and efficient way to disinfect and have become essential tools in people's daily routines as people place a greater emphasis on preventive measures. In public areas, workplaces, and homes, the necessity of instant hand sanitization has become standard. The continuing need for hand sanitizers globally indicates the shared commitment of maintaining both individual and societal health in the face of health challenges.

For instance, in June 2023, LYSOL launched its new Lysol Air Sanitizer, which is the first air-care product that kills 99.9% of airborne viruses and bacteria. Traditional air fresheners freshen the air and traditional disinfectant sprays kill viruses on surfaces, but Lysol air sanitizer is the first ever product in the air-care category, creating a new range of products for consumers who want to create sanitized environments in their homes.

Convenient and Portable Design Promotes its Use and Drives the Market

Hand sanitizers' popularity is attributed to their convenient and portable design, making them the preferred choice for swift hand hygiene, particularly in environments with restricted access to soap and water. The ease of use of sanitizers allows individuals to prioritize hygiene effortlessly, fostering widespread adoption in diverse settings such as public spaces, transportation, and events. Their compact size enables easy carriage in pockets or bags, ensuring accessibility on the move. The convenience factor encourages consistent hand sanitization practices and aligns with modern lifestyles. As a result, hand sanitizers have become an essential tool in maintaining effective personal hygiene across various situations and environments.

For instance, in June 2023, the US-based personal care brand Touchland, collaborated with Blackpink, the viral K-pop group, for a signature Blackpink take on the highly popular product Power Mist Hydrating Hand Sanitizer. The product was a limited-edition made for consumers preferring veganism and was made with 70% ethyl alcohol formula owing to the brand's best-selling Blue Sandalwood scent, containing important fragrance notes like lemon, velvet peach, and gold amber, to lessen any lingering alcohol smell. The product came in a 30ml easy-to-carry sleek packaging with transparent black glass and outer pink borders for USD 10.

Hospitals are the Largest End-user of Hand Sanitizers

Based on end-users, hospitals dominate due to the vital need to maintain a hygienic environment in medical facilities, prompting a consistent demand for sanitizers. Given the constant influx of patients, healthcare professionals recognize hand hygiene as essential in preventing the spread of infections. Therefore, hospitals maintain a high demand for hand sanitizers to ensure a sterile environment and minimize the risk of cross-contamination. Additionally, strict regulatory requirements require hospitals to adhere to rigorous sanitation protocols, resulting in the adoption of hand sanitizers. Also, the ongoing global health crisis has heightened awareness regarding infection control measures, enhancing the importance of hand hygiene in healthcare settings. Thus, hospitals remain the root of the hand sanitizer market, continuously driving innovation and demand for effective sanitization solutions.

For instance, in October 2023, SpectrumX participated as an exhibitor at IP2023, the yearly conference organized by the Infection Prevention Society (IPS). The company presented its revolutionary alcohol-free hand sanitizer product, Spectricept Care+ Hand, which exceeds the effectiveness of alcohol-based hand rubs, effectively eliminating Norovirus and C. difficile. Additionally, its skin-friendly formula is gentle on medical practitioners' skin during continuous patient care.

Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the global hand sanitizer market, causing an increasing demand. With an emphasis on personal hygiene to manage virus transmission, consumers globally look for hand sanitizers as a convenient and effective preventive measure. The surge led to supply chain challenges, prompting industry players to ramp up production and innovate formulations to meet the demand. Regulatory changes were implemented swiftly to ensure product quality and safety.

The market witnessed a shift in consumer preferences towards trusted brands and formulations with higher alcohol content. While the initial spike was pronounced, the market continues to evolve as hygiene consciousness persists. The pandemic is a medium for long-term behavioral changes, embedding hand sanitizers into everyday routines. As global health dynamics shift, the sanitizer market remains dynamic, reflecting ongoing adaptation to new norms and sustained demand for effective hygiene solutions.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

The global hand sanitizer market features a competitive landscape with several key players influencing trends and dynamics. Prominent companies such as Procter & Gamble, Reckitt Benckiser Group, and Unilever dominate the market, leveraging extensive product portfolios and global distribution networks. These industry giants have played a pivotal role in shaping consumer preferences by introducing diverse formulations tailored to different needs, including gels, liquids, and foams.

Innovation has been a driving force, with companies like 3M introducing touchless dispensers and sustainable packaging solutions. Additionally, the market has witnessed the rise of niche players focusing on organic and natural formulations. Regional players contribute to market diversity with localized offerings, especially in Asia-Pacific and Europe.

For instance, in Nov 2022, Reckitt and ESSITY collaborated to introduce a line of co-branded disinfection products for customers in the professional hygiene market. The products combine the strength of their respective brands across four European countries. The new range includes hand sanitizer gel in recyclable and collapsible bottles.