China Artificial Tears Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecasts 2031

Key Findings

• The China Artificial Tears Market is expanding steadily due to rising prevalence of dry eye syndrome (DES) and increased screen time across populations.
• Growing elderly demographic and higher incidence of age-related ocular disorders are driving product demand in China.
• Advancements in preservative-free formulations, lipid-based drops, and long-acting gels are improving therapeutic outcomes.
• Greater awareness of eye health, accessibility to OTC ophthalmic products, and improved distribution channels are strengthening market penetration.
• Demand for artificial tears is rising in workplaces due to digital device exposure and environmental conditions.
• Challenges such as product overuse, preservative sensitivity, and counterfeit ophthalmic products persist in China.
• Increasing adoption of premium formulations and single-dose units is shifting consumer preference toward high-value products.
• Collaborations between ophthalmologists, pharmaceutical firms, and research institutions are shaping innovation in China.

China Artificial Tears Market Size and Forecast

The China Artificial Tears Market is projected to grow from USD 4.1 billion in 2025 to USD 7.8 billion by 2031, reflecting a CAGR of 11.4%. Growth is primarily driven by increasing clinical diagnosis of dry eye disease, high digital device usage, and environmental pollution affecting ocular lubrication. Rising disposable income and easier access to OTC tear substitutes have accelerated self-medication trends in China. The emergence of lipid-enhanced, cross-linked, and preservative-free formulas is reshaping product uptake. Furthermore, innovations in sustained-release artificial tear inserts and smart ophthalmic delivery systems are creating new market opportunities. With strong investments in ophthalmic care and wider availability of eye clinics, the artificial tears market will continue to expand robustly through 2031.

Introduction

Artificial tears are ophthalmic lubricants formulated to restore natural tear film stability, relieve dryness, and protect the ocular surface. They are widely used for treating mild to moderate dry eye symptoms resulting from digital eye strain, aging, environmental factors, LASIK surgery, medications, and systemic conditions. In China, artificial tears are available as OTC liquids, gels, ointments, sprays, and single-dose vials. With growing adoption of contact lenses and increased exposure to air conditioning, pollution, and screen-based work culture, artificial tears have become a widely used eye-care product. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on biocompatibility, longer retention time, and patient-friendly formats to improve outcomes. As eye health awareness grows, artificial tears are becoming essential in daily ocular hygiene routines across China.

Future Outlook

By 2031, the China Artificial Tears Market will move toward advanced drug-delivery technologies, biomimetic tear substitutes, and sustained-release formulations. Single-use preservative-free vials will continue dominating due to rising concerns about preservative-induced ocular surface damage. AI-enabled ophthalmic diagnostics and tele-ophthalmology will enhance early detection of dry eye conditions, increasing artificial tear adoption. Premium lipid-based formulas will gain momentum as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) cases rise. Customized artificial tear blends targeting specific tear deficiency types will emerge as key differentiators. With growing investment in ocular R&D and expanding healthcare access, China is expected to become a major growth hub for next-generation artificial tear solutions.

China Artificial Tears Market Trends

• Shift Toward Preservative-Free and Single-Dose Formulations
  There is a significant market shift toward preservative-free artificial tears in China due to rising awareness of preservative-related ocular irritation. Multi-use bottles containing preservatives can cause ocular surface inflammation, especially in chronic dry eye cases. Single-dose preservative-free vials offer safer and more biocompatible solutions, especially for long-term use. As consumers become more aware of eye health, preservative-free products are gaining preference across retail and pharmacy channels. Growing recommendation from ophthalmologists further accelerates this trend, making preservative-free formulations the fastest-growing product category in China.

• Growing Demand for Lipid-Based and Gel-Based Formulations
  Lipid-deficient dry eye, often linked to Meibomian gland dysfunction, is becoming increasingly prevalent in China. This has led to a surge in demand for lipid-based artificial tears that help restore the tear film’s lipid layer and reduce evaporation. Gel-based formulations are also gaining popularity for their longer ocular retention and suitability for nighttime use. These advanced formulations address moderate-to-severe dry eye symptoms more effectively than traditional aqueous drops. As clinical understanding of tear film disorders evolves, demand for specialized formulations continues to rise.

• Rising Digital Eye Strain and Lifestyle-Related Dry Eye Issues
  Increased exposure to digital screens among working professionals, students, and elderly individuals is significantly driving dry eye syndrome cases across China. Prolonged use of smartphones, tablets, and computers reduces blinking frequency, weakening tear stability. Urban pollution, indoor climate-controlled environments, and long work hours compound these symptoms. As digital lifestyles intensify, artificial tears are becoming essential for maintaining daily ocular comfort. The trend is particularly strong in metropolitan and tech-driven regions of China.

• Adoption of Multi-Functional Artificial Tears with Enhanced Ingredients
  Manufacturers in China are incorporating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, carboxymethylcellulose, glycerin, and trehalose to enhance hydration, retention, and corneal protection. These multifunctional formulations support tear film regeneration and offer prolonged relief. High-viscosity drops designed for post-surgery recovery and severe dry eye are gaining traction. Innovations in biopolymer technology are enabling more physiologically compatible tear substitutes. This trend reflects growing consumer preference for premium and therapeutically advanced artificial tears.

• Integration of AI and Smart Ophthalmic Devices for Dry Eye Diagnosis
  Ophthalmic technology in China is evolving toward AI-based diagnostic platforms that can detect early tear film instability and ocular surface abnormalities. Smart devices such as meibography tools, tear osmolarity analyzers, and handheld imaging devices support personalized dry eye care. Increasing tele-ophthalmology adoption is promoting home-based monitoring of symptoms. As digital healthcare infrastructure expands, AI-enabled diagnosis will continue to drive targeted artificial tear usage across population segments.

Market Growth Drivers

• Rising Prevalence of Dry Eye Syndrome and Ocular Allergies
  Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is becoming increasingly common in China due to aging demographics, digital lifestyles, and environmental pollution. Ocular allergy cases linked to pollutants and allergens further elevate market demand for lubricating eye drops. DES affects quality of life and productivity, prompting greater reliance on artificial tears for daily relief. As clinical diagnosis becomes more accessible, rising patient volumes will drive sustained market growth.

• Increasing Screen Time Across All Age Groups
  The surge in remote work, online education, and digital entertainment has intensified digital eye strain across China. Reduced blinking rates and prolonged focus on screens destabilize the tear film, necessitating frequent lubrication. Artificial tears provide an accessible and immediate solution for managing digital strain. As digital activity remains central to modern living, screen-related dry eye will remain a strong growth driver.

• Growing Use of Contact Lenses and Post-Surgical Eye Care
  Contact lens users often experience dryness due to reduced tear stability and surface friction. Artificial tears help improve comfort, reduce irritation, and enhance wear duration. Additionally, LASIK and cataract surgeries commonly require postoperative lubrication to support corneal healing. The rise in elective eye surgeries and increasing contact lens adoption in China is amplifying demand for artificial tears across both medical and consumer markets.

• Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure and OTC Access
  Improved access to pharmacies, eye clinics, and retail outlets in China has significantly boosted the availability of artificial tears. Consumers increasingly prefer OTC solutions for managing mild-to-moderate dry eye symptoms. Expanding e-commerce platforms further enhance product accessibility. With growing healthcare investments, artificial tears will remain a widely used solution in both clinical and household settings.

• Awareness Campaigns and Eye Health Education
  Government bodies, eye care NGOs, and ophthalmic manufacturers in China are investing in eye health awareness campaigns. Educational programs on digital eye strain, elderly eye care, and proper contact lens use are encouraging preventive practices. Increased consumer awareness has driven more people to adopt artificial tears as part of their daily ocular care routine. This grassroots-level education supports long-term market expansion.

Challenges in the Market

• Sensitivity to Preservatives and Risk of Ocular Irritation
  Many artificial tears contain preservatives that may cause irritation or inflammation with frequent use. Patients with chronic dry eye are more susceptible to adverse reactions, limiting long-term use of preserved formulations. This challenge requires manufacturers in China to innovate preservative-free and biocompatible alternatives, especially for sensitive users. Failure to address sensitivity can restrict product retention and compliance.

• Limited Therapeutic Relief for Severe or Chronic Dry Eye
  While artificial tears offer temporary relief, they often do not address severe underlying conditions such as autoimmune disorders or chronic Meibomian gland dysfunction. Patients with advanced dry eye may experience insufficient benefits from standard OTC products. This functional limitation reduces overall effectiveness and prompts demand for more advanced treatments. Addressing unmet therapeutic needs requires continuous R&D investment in China.

• Growing Competition and Price Pressure in OTC Markets
  The artificial tears market in China is crowded with numerous brands offering similar formulations. Intense competition increases price pressure and reduces profit margins for manufacturers. Low-cost alternatives also challenge premium product adoption. Companies must differentiate through clinically proven benefits, innovative ingredients, or targeted formulations to maintain a competitive edge.

• Product Misuse and Over-Reliance Without Clinical Guidance
  Consumers may overuse artificial tears without addressing underlying causes of dry eye. Excessive reliance on OTC products can lead to improper management and delayed medical intervention. Lack of proper consultation may also increase risks of preservative exposure or incompatibility with contact lenses. Raising public awareness about appropriate usage remains essential for safe, long-term adoption.

• Presence of Counterfeit and Low-Quality Ophthalmic Products
  Counterfeit artificial tears pose a significant safety risk due to unregulated ingredients and contamination. In China, online and informal markets sometimes carry unverified products that may compromise ocular health. This undermines consumer trust and creates regulatory challenges. Ensuring stringent quality control and verified distribution channels is critical for safeguarding patient safety.

China Artificial Tears Market Segmentation

By Type

• Preservative-Free Drops

• Aqueous-Based Drops

• Lipid-Based Drops

• Gel Drops

• Ointments

By Ingredient Base

• Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)

• Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)

• Hyaluronic Acid

• Glycerin

• Polyethylene Glycol

• Others

By Formulation

• Multi-Dose Bottles

• Single-Dose Vials

• Spray and Mist Form

• Long-Acting Gel/Ointment

By Application

• Dry Eye Syndrome

• Digital Eye Strain

• Contact Lens Discomfort

• Post-Surgical Care

• Allergic Conjunctivitis

By End-User

• Hospitals

• Ophthalmic Clinics

• Retail Pharmacies

• Online Pharmacies

• Household Users

Leading Key Players

• Alcon Inc.

• Allergan plc (AbbVie)

• Bausch + Lomb

• Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

• Johnson & Johnson Vision Care

• Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

• Similasan Corporation

• Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

• Novartis AG

• Oasis Medical Inc.

Recent Developments

• Alcon Inc. introduced a preservative-free advanced hydration tear formulation targeted at chronic dry eye patients in China.

• Bausch + Lomb expanded its gel-based artificial tear product line designed for extended night-time relief in China.

• Allergan plc (AbbVie) launched a lipid-enhanced tear supplement to support Meibomian gland dysfunction treatment in China.

• Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. partnered with eye hospitals in China to support R&D in tear film stabilization technologies.

• Johnson & Johnson Vision Care introduced a new contact-lens-friendly artificial tear formula suitable for daily use across China.

This Market Report Will Answer the Following Questions

1. What is the projected growth rate and market size of the China Artificial Tears Market by 2031?

2. Which factors are driving the increasing adoption of artificial tear products in China?

3. How are preservative-free and advanced formulations reshaping consumer preferences?

4. What challenges and risks affect long-term artificial tear usage in China?

5. Who are the leading players and what innovations are influencing market competition?