Are K-beauty sheet masks cosmetics or medical devices?

Standard sheet masks (moisturizing, brightening) are cosmetics under 3304.99. Masks with drug claims (acne treatment, anti-inflammatory) may require FDA OTC drug registration.

Does 'natural' or 'organic' affect the HS code?

No. HS classification is based on function and form, not ingredients. A natural face cream and a synthetic one both classify under 3304.99.

Cosmetics HS Code — Skincare, Makeup & Beauty Product Classification

Cosmetics and beauty products spread across several HS chapters depending on their form and function. Skincare creams, lipstick, and sunscreen all have different codes — and sunscreen with an SPF claim can jump from cosmetics to pharmaceuticals. Getting this right matters for both duty rates and FDA clearance.

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Key cosmetics HS codes

Chapter 33 covers most cosmetics, but related products scatter across other chapters.

3304.10 — Lip make-up (lipstick, lip gloss, lip balm, lip liner).
3304.20 — Eye make-up (eyeshadow, mascara, eyeliner, brow products).
3304.30 — Manicure/pedicure preparations (nail polish, nail treatments).
3304.91 — Beauty powders (face powder, compact, setting powder).
3304.99 — Other beauty/skincare preparations (moisturizers, serums, foundation, concealer, BB cream, toner, facial masks).
3305.10 — Shampoos.
3305.90 — Other hair preparations (conditioner, hair masks, styling products, hair oil).
3307.20 — Personal deodorants and antiperspirants.
3307.30 — Bath salts and bath preparations.
3401.11 — Soap, for toilet use (bar soap, handmade soap).
3401.30 — Organic surface-active products for washing skin (liquid soap, body wash, facial cleanser).

US duty rates

Most cosmetics under Chapter 33 carry US duty rates between 0% and 5.4%. Specific rates:

3304.99 (skincare, foundation): 0% for most products.
3304.10 (lipstick): 0%.
3304.20 (eye makeup): 0%.
3305.10 (shampoo): 0%.
3401.11 (bar soap): 0% to 1.5%.
3307.20 (deodorant): 4.9%.

The sunscreen classification trap

Sunscreen with SPF claims classifies under HS 3304.99 in most countries. But in the US, the FDA regulates sunscreen as an OTC drug, not a cosmetic. This means FDA drug registration requirements apply even though the HS code stays in Chapter 33.

Moisturizers with SPF ('daily moisturizer with SPF 30') face the same FDA drug requirements. This is the most common compliance surprise for beauty brand importers.

FDA requirements for cosmetics

Since December 2023, the MoCRA (Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act) requires cosmetic facility registration and product listing with FDA. All cosmetic importers need to register their foreign manufacturing facility.

Labels must include: ingredient list (INCI names), net weight, distributor info, and any required warnings. 'Cruelty-free' and 'organic' claims have specific regulatory requirements — don't put them on the label without verification.

Frequently asked questions

Are K-beauty sheet masks cosmetics or medical devices?: Standard sheet masks (moisturizing, brightening) are cosmetics under 3304.99. Masks with drug claims (acne treatment, anti-inflammatory) may require FDA OTC drug registration.
Does 'natural' or 'organic' affect the HS code?: No. HS classification is based on function and form, not ingredients. A natural face cream and a synthetic one both classify under 3304.99.

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