Topical Pain Relief Market Size and Share Outlook - Forecast Trends and Growth Analysis Report (2025-2034)

Topical Pain Relief Market Overview

Topical pain relief agents are used to treat muscle pains, sprains, and strains. They can also help relieve painful arthritis. Since topical analgesics have fewer side effects than oral painkillers, they are often prescribed instead of oral painkillers. Factors driving market growth include increased adoption of topical pain-relieving drugs, which have fewer side effects than oral pain relievers, the growing global geriatric population, and an increase in demand for topical pain relievers among athletes. Further, expanding online retail channels for topical therapeutics is expected to provide the industry with lucrative growth opportunities.

Topical Pain Relief Market Growth Drivers

Rising Incidence of Bone-related Issues Boost the Market Growth

The World Health Organization estimated that around 619 million individuals registered with lower back pain (LBP) in 2020. These cases are expected to increase to 843 million cases by 2050. The growing geriatric population significantly drives the increase in the number of cases.

The increasing prevalence of arthritis and other bone-related diseases, as well as diabetic neuropathy, which causes pain, is driving the growth of the market.

Expedited Product Developments to Meet Rising Topical Pain Relief Market Demand

The market is significantly driven by the rising demand for non-invasive, fast-acting pain relief solutions. The market players are considering consumer preference for different formulations and forms of topical analgesics. For instance, in September 2024, Mankind Pharma’s consumer business division launched a new solution for neck pain, Nimulid Strong, a gel and spray formulation to address neck pain, which impacts overall body function. The new solution has 2x diclofenac concentration that claims fast pain relief.  This focus on consumer preference is poised to augment the increased adoption of newly launched topical solutions, especially in spray forms, bolstering market growth.

Further, the growing demand for non-opioid pain relief solutions, coupled with increasing consumer preference for over-the-counter (OTC) medications is driving innovation in the topical pain management market. Moreover, the rising awareness of the harmful side effects of consuming oral pain relievers for the long term is further creating a need for market players to develop targeted, user-friendly solutions. For instance, in September 2023, Kenvue Inc. showcased its new topical Tylenol Precise Pain Relieving Cream at PAINWeek Conference 2023. The new pain reliever ointment consists of maximum-strength lidocaine 40% that provides targeted pain relief seamlessly. In view of recent consumer data, around 40% of individuals dislike the way medicated topical solutions smell and feel. Therefore, Kenvue designed a hands-free application with a rollerball with a fresh scent and fragrance-free formula to enhance the consumer experience.

Topical Pain Relief Market Trends

Topical Pain Relief Market Segmentation

Topical Pain Relief Market Share

Cream Formulation Leads the Market Share

The market segmentation by formulation includes cream, spray, gel, patch, and others. Cream formulations are expected to lead the market share due to their widespread use, ease of application, and effectiveness in delivering pain relief. Consumers prefer creams as they get easily absorbed into the skin, offering fast-acting relief for localised pain such as muscle aches, joint pain, and arthritis. Additionally, creams often contain popular active ingredients like menthol, capsaicin, or lidocaine, which are highly effective in targeting pain receptors. Their non-greasy texture and availability in over-the-counter and prescription forms contribute to the high demand and increased adoption in the market.

Topical Pain Relief Market Analysis by Region

Based on region, the United States leads the regional market share, driven by the rising prevalence of chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, back pain, and neuropathy. The market is further driven by the growing geriatric population, and a shift towards self-medication for pain management, contributing to increased adoption of topical pain relief solutions. Increasing awareness about non-opioid alternatives for pain management is collectively fueling the demand for topical pain relief products in the market. Technological advancements in product formulations, including innovations like lidocaine patches and menthol-based creams are attracting a large consumer base, thereby increasing the market share of the region. Moreover, consumer preference for over-the-counter (OTC) products and the widespread availability of topical solutions across various retail channels, including e-commerce, are accelerating the market expansion in the United States.

Leading Players in the Topical Pain Relief Market

Other key players in the market include Topical Biomedics, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., and Haw Par Corporation Ltd. 

Key Questions Answered in the Topical Pain Relief Market

• What was the topical pain relief market value in 2023? 
• What is the topical pain relief market forecast outlook for 2025-2034?  
• What is market segmentation based on therapeutics? 
• How does segmentation by formulation influence market dynamics?   
• What are the distribution channels in the market? 
• What are the major factors aiding the topical pain relief market demand?  
• How has the market performed so far and how is it anticipated to perform in the coming years? 
• What are the market's major drivers, opportunities, and restraints?  
• Which country is expected to experience expedited growth during the forecast period?  
• What are the major topical pain relief market trends?
• Which therapeutic is expected to dominate the market? 
• Which formulation will lead the market segment? 
• Which distribution channel will lead the market?
• Who are the key players involved in the topical pain relief market? 
• What is the patent landscape of the market? 
• What are the current unmet needs and challenges in the market?
• How are partnerships, collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions among the key market players shaping the market dynamics?