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SITCSection 5
U.S. exports of depilatories and other cosmetic or toilet preparations, n.e.s. (SITC 55359) totaled $50.0M in July 2026.
Importers of Depilatories and Other Cosmetic or Toilet Preparations, N.E.S. paid $3.0M in duties in July 2026 — an effective duty rate of 14% on $22.1M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule. Depilatories and Other Cosmetic or Toilet Preparations, N.E.S. imports of $23.5M in July 2026 ran 21% above the year-to-date monthly average of $19.4M.
Last updated: July 2026 dataChemical depilatories — which dissolve hair via thioglycolate or similar alkaline compounds — are regulated as cosmetics by the FDA, though their high pH and potential for skin irritation place them under heightened safety scrutiny. The 'not elsewhere specified' scope of this category also captures a diverse range of residual personal-care preparations that do not fit neatly into other headings, including intimate hygiene products, tanning accelerators without UV-filter claims, and specialty grooming preparations. Importers should carefully evaluate whether any product in this residual grouping makes claims that would shift it into OTC drug or medical device territory.
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860 shipments/mo
Basic heading 152 of 465 in section 5
Basic heading 55359 · $23.5M of $28.9B
The FDA has not issued a formal OTC monograph for depilatories, so they are regulated as cosmetics. However, the agency monitors thioglycolate-based products for skin sensitization and irritation risks. Importers should ensure that formulations comply with FDA cosmetic safety requirements, that ingredient concentrations are within industry-accepted safety ranges, and that cautionary use instructions are clearly labeled. Consulting a licensed customs broker or regulatory counsel before importation is recommended.
Classification in a residual 'not elsewhere specified' heading is appropriate only after confirming the product does not meet the specific descriptions of other headings in the cosmetics group. The key steps are: (1) identify the product's primary function and active ingredients; (2) check whether it fits a more specific heading (e.g., hair preparations, oral hygiene, or skin care); and (3) review the product's label claims to determine whether it is a cosmetic, OTC drug, or medical device. A licensed customs broker can provide a binding ruling request to CBP for certainty.
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Exports · July 2026
destination
Canada and Mexico together take 45% of it.
customs district
Census does not publish district detail for this classification system.
origin
Census does not publish state detail for this classification system.
entry
Census does not publish port detail for this classification system.
ImportsExports
Imports
$23.5MYoY · Pro
Exports
$50.0MYoY · Pro
12-mo low · imports
YoY · ProThrough July 2026. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.