Can’t Sleep? Spray This: The latest innovation in sleep aid comes in a spray application

Most Americans have suffered through a sleepless night here and there, whether it’s the result of a newborn child, stress from work, or concerns about their personal life. But a growing number of consumers are finding their restless nights are more frequent. According to Mintel’s OTC Sleep Aids US 2015 report, some 60% of Americans report struggling with sleep, whether it’s falling asleep, staying asleep, or awakening well rested. However, only about 30% of those surveyed use OTC sleep aids, suggesting a potential for market growth, especially for new and innovative products.

60% of Americans report struggling with sleep, yet only 30% of those surveyed use OTC sleep aids

Along the latest in sleep innovation is Sprayable Sleep – which claims to be exactly what it sounds like: a liquid that’s sprayed on the user’s neck about an hour before bed to help them sleep. The product promotes a simple, three ingredient list of water, an amino acid called tyrosine, and melatonin, the hormone the body produces to regulate sleep and wake cycles. Melatonin, the key active ingredient in Sprayable Sleep, is also found in many of the typical OTC sleep aids consumers are familiar with. What differentiates Sprayable Sleep from other products on the market is the delivery method. The brand, Sprayable, claims that melatonin in pill form delivers a higher-than-normal dose, while letting the hormone slowly absorb through the skin via the mist application is similar to how it’s naturally introduced into the system by the pineal gland.

What Do Consumers Think?

While tablets and liquid are the most widely available OTC sleep aid formats, Mintel’s research shows there is strong interest in trying new formats, especially among younger users, aged 25-34. Alternatives include gummies or chewable pills, dissolving strips, even roll-on gels. But what about a spray? According to Mintel, 29% of consumers who struggle with sleep are interested in using a body spray as an OTC sleep aid. Currently, there are spray products on the market that act as air deodorizers or diffusers to promote relaxation and sleep, but very few body sprays are available to consumers looking for a restful night.

So far, over 4,000 funders have donated money to Sprayable Sleep via Indiegogo, and the campaign is up to nearly $360,000. We’ll let you be the judge. The product – a bottle containing 60 sprays (according to the company) – will be available to the public in July 2015.

Mintel’s Category Manager, Molly is the lead Analyst overseeing Mintel’s US series of health and wellness, household and home care, and beauty and personal care reports.