Loading...
SITCSection 5
U.S. imports of depilatories and other cosmetic or toilet preparations, n.e.s. (SITC 55359) totaled $18.6M in April 2026, traded with 41 countries.
Importers of Depilatories and Other Cosmetic or Toilet Preparations, N.E.S. paid $2.5M in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 14% on $17.4M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule.
Last updated: April 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.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
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.
Supplier Network
Get discovered by U.S. importers searching for HS 55359 — Depilatories and Other Cosmetic or Toilet Preparations, N.E.S.. Be the first supplier listed.
| Country | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| CANADA | $593K | $15.4M | +$14.8M |
| KOREA, SOUTH | $6.4M | $779K | -$5.6M |
| CHINA | $1.0M | $5.3M | +$4.2M |
| MEXICO | $378K | $5.2M | +$4.8M |
| JAPAN | $173K | $4.4M | +$4.2M |
Monthly import values over time