Oral hygiene is one of the most dynamic, fastest-growing, and competitive segments in the FMCG industry in India. The scenario, however, has changed since its inception. It has evolved from a static to a dynamic state, from a less competitive to a more competitive one, from a traditional to a more organised and advanced one.
Previously, the oral hygiene market was confined to manufacturing largely primary oral care goods that were considered essential, such as toothpaste and toothbrushes, and hence held only a minor share of the FMCG sector. However, the oral hygiene market in India has changed dramatically over time as a result of favourable demand and supply dynamics, as well as supportive government regulations.
The toothpaste category currently dominates India’s oral hygiene market, followed by toothbrushes, including manual and electric toothbrushes. Due to shifting consumer preferences, toothpowder sales have decreased. In India, advanced oral care products, including mouthwashes, dental floss, and teeth whitening, are still in their infancy, catering primarily to urban consumers. The largest market participants are Colgate-Palmolive Gmbh, Johnson & Johnson Gmbh, and Unilever PLC, with convenience stores dominating the other distribution channels.
The toothpaste market in India is majorly divided among the following players:
Colgate is the most well-known oral care brand in India. They are dedicated to conducting business with honesty and respect for all individuals. Colgate provides high-quality oral care products such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwashes, and dental health advice from experts. This vegan toothpaste is also sugar-free and gluten-free. It is priced at 40/100g.
It protects against cavities, gingivitis, plaque, toothache, poor breath, yellow teeth, weak teeth and gums, and other dental issues. In comparison to other ordinary toothpaste, it also gives a 35 per cent improvement in the oral care hygiene index. It costs 35 cents per 100 grams.
Himalaya’s sparkling white toothpaste is a ground-breaking herbal solution based on plant enzyme technology that gently removes surface stains from your teeth. It contains papain and bromelain, enzymes found in papaya and pineapple that help whiten teeth without harming them. It’ll set you back $75/100g.
Closeup Everfresh + Gel Toothpaste, now in Triple Fresh Formula, combines the power of three components to keep your mouth clean, protected, and fresh: mouthwash, purifying gel, and natural extracts of Tea Tree and Eucalyptus. It has an aggressive zinc mouthwash solution that kills up to 99 per cent of bacteria. It is 50/100g in price.
Close Up by Hindustan Lever Limited is India’s other leading toothpaste brand. This company is credited with being the first to introduce toothpaste to India in 1975. Close Up is the brand name of the first gel toothpaste in India. Since then, the brand has been reintroduced several times and is available in various flavours. The company has also launched ten bundles to reach the rural market.