A comprehensive guide of the consumerization of dermatology practice and the opportunity for operators and investors.
India performed more than a 1 million aesthetic procedures in 2023, a ~45% year-over-year increase. However, with less than 1 procedure per 1,000 people, the market in India remains significantly underpenetrated compared to countries like USA with more than 20 procedures per 1,000 people.
Beauty's new frontier: India emerges as top 10 global aesthetics market
The Indian aesthetic dermatology market is undergoing a massive transformation, driven by social media, rising disposable incomes, and changing attitudes toward beauty procedures. The market's potential for growth is significant, despite current fragmentation and regulatory challenges.
USD 3.4bn
Aesthetic dermatology market size
~200mn
Middle-class and affluent consumers
90%
Market is unorganized
Key drivers of the cosmetology market in India
1
Demographics
A young population (median age 28.2) with growing disposable income is fueling demand, particularly in the 25-35 age range.
2
Digital influence
The "Zoom face" phenomenon and social media are pushing more people toward aesthetic procedures. 4 in 10 women now view cosmetic surgery as their preferred body reshaping method
3
Rise of male beauty
Male beauty is emerging as a significant segment, driven by evolving perceptions of masculinity and self-care; a big beneficiary is the hair transplant segment
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By the numbers
With growing urbanization, and increasing beauty consciousness, India’s aesthetic dermatology market is poised for robust growth
1
Over 40% of Indian consumers are willing to spend more on cosmetic procedures compared to five years ago (Nielsen)
2
Non-surgical cosmetic procedures in India have increased by 5% annually over the last five years (ISAPS)
3
Rising disposable incomes and greater social media influence drive the demand for aesthetic treatments (KPMG)
4
Over 50% of urban Indian women consider cosmetic treatments to enhance their appearance (KPMG)
5
The demand for minimally invasive procedures increased by 20% annually in India (American Society of Plastic Surgeons)
Surgical Procedures
Most popular procedures in Face & Head category (225,228 procedures)
Liposuction: 102,290 procedures
Primary focus on face/head, body/extremities, and breast procedures
Surgical procedures growth: 37.1% (2023)
Non-Surgical Procedures
Leading category is injectables (222,544 procedures)
Botox injections: 115,194 procedures
Growing demand for laser treatments and facial rejuvenation
Non-surgical procedures growth: 53.3% (2023)
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Growing pains in the market
Due to the dominance of unorganized sector in aesthetic dermatology there is a persistent quality, and safety challenge
1
Regulatory Hurdles
Lack of stringent regulations and standards for cosmetic procedures poses risks and challenges for the market
2
Awareness and Education
Ensuring consumers are informed about safe practices and qualified practitioners remains critical
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The Bottom-line: India’s aesthetic dermatology sector is booming, ranking among the world’s top 10 markets. The industry has evolved from traditional dermatology clinics to advanced aesthetic centers, with integrated skin & hair clinics driving expansion. In 2023, the market saw a 45% year-over-year growth, surpassing 1 million procedures. With rising disposable incomes, medical advancements, and increasing demand for non-invasive treatments, the sector is poised for even greater growth ahead.
If you are a founder or investor in the Indian healthcare space and would like to have a chat – please reach out to me at chandra@pharma-pro.in