The global disposable face mask market size is anticipated to reach USD 1.2 billion by 2027, expanding at a CAGR of 5.6% over the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Rapid industrialization, rising pollution levels globally, and growing awareness among users regarding health protection are some of the most prominent factors that are expected to propel market growth over the forecast period. Furthermore, implementation of various safety norms for workers, most notably in developed economies, such as U.S. and Germany is expected to remain a key trend throughout the forecast timeframe.

Rise in cases of hospital acquired infections (HAIs), growing elderly population, and development of healthcare facilities in emerging economies are fueling market growth. Different manufacturers use different types of material for manufacturing disposable face masks. 3M Company, for instance, offers a wide variety of NIOSH-approved filtering disposable face covers designed for numerous tasks, where chances of suffering from infection are high.

The protective masks segment emerged as the largest product segment and accounted for more than 35.0% share of the global revenue. Protective masks are used to eliminate or reduce the risk of coming in contact with contagious pathogens, disease carrying germs, and airborne infections. These products are also used as a protectant while performing surgery in order to protect surgeons from viruses and germs. Furthermore, these products are used by workers in the paints, varnishes, and other chemical manufacturing companies to ward off harmful chemicals.

Asia Pacific is expected to remain as one of the most prominent regional markets in the foreseeable future owing to growing industrial sector in emerging economies, including China and India. Furthermore, supportive government initiatives to protect the health of the working and non-working classes in the above-mentioned countries are driving product demand in the near future.

The industry is highly competitive in terms of product variation and pricing. Key players are focusing on developing disposable face covers with better ventilation, filtration, water-proofing, and other benefits to increase user-friendliness and protection. Rising consumer demand for innovative, high filtration efficiency, and application-specific masks is expected to open new opportunities for the key players over the next few years. Introduction of special respiratory disposable face covers is a key trend in the market, which has enabled key disposable face mask market participants to customize the product accordingly to customer requirements.

Further key findings from the report suggest:

  • The disposable face mask market is expected to progress at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2020 to 2027 to reach USD 1.23 billion by 2027
  • In terms of product, the U.S. non-woven masks segment is expected to grab more than 35.0% share of the overall revenue by 2027
  • The industrial application segment is expected to progress at a considerable rate over the forecast period owing to the presence of stringent regulations pertaining to worker’s safety on shop floors
  • Product innovation emerged as the key strategy deployed by majority of market players to stay abreast of the competition