Product classification
HS code for Hair straightening cream: 3305.20
Hair preparations, for permanent waving or straightening.
Classification of hair straightening cream under HS 3305.20
Hair straightening creams are classified under HS code 3305.20. This code is situated within Chapter 33, which covers essential oils, resinoids, and cosmetic or toilet preparations. Heading 3305 is dedicated specifically to preparations for use on the hair. Within this heading, subheading 3305.20 is designated for preparations intended for permanent waving or straightening. The classification is determined by the chemical function of the product; these creams typically contain active agents like ammonium thioglycolate or sodium hydroxide that chemically alter the hair's disulfide bonds to change its shape. Because the product is formulated for a specific chemical treatment of the hair structure, it is distinguished from general hair care products like shampoos or simple styling gels. The classification remains consistent whether the product is intended for professional salon use or retail sale for home use. The essential character of the product as a "permanent" modifier of hair texture is the key factor in applying this specific subheading.
- Covers
- Chemical hair relaxers
- Permanent hair straightening creams
- Neutralizing lotions used in the straightening process
- Thermal straightening balms with chemical modifiers
- Professional hair rebonding creams
- Also under 3305.20
- L'Oréal Professionnel X-Tenso Moisturist
- Wella Professionals Creatine+ Straight
- Schwarzkopf Professional Strait Styling Glatt
- Brazilian Blowout Original Solution
- Olaplex No. 1 Bond Multiplier
Codes often confused with 3305.20
Common mistake. Hair straightening creams are often misclassified under 3305.90, which is a catch-all category for "other" hair preparations such as hair sprays, brilliantines, and conditioners. While 3305.90 covers many styling products, 3305.20 is more specific for products that chemically straighten the hair. Another common error is using 3305.10, which is exclusively for shampoos, even if the shampoo has minor straightening properties. If the primary purpose is the straightening process itself, 3305.20 is the correct code.
Top exporters and importers of HS 330520 (the code used for hair straightening cream), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 330520 (the code used for hair straightening cream) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 14% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Tanzania, with 5.8% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 330520, not only hair straightening cream.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $24M 14% of world exports
- 2 South Africa $12M 7.1% of world exports
- 3 Germany $12M 6.7% of world exports
World total: $173M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Tanzania $9.7M 5.8% of world imports
- 2 United States $9.5M 5.7% of world imports
- 3 Saudi Arabia $7.0M 4.2% of world imports
World total: $166M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for hair straightening cream
Brazil classifies hair straightening cream under NCM 3305.20.00: HS 3305.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about hair straightening cream
What is the HS code for Hair straightening cream?
The HS code for Hair straightening cream is 330520 (Hair preparations; for permanent waving or straightening). The HS code for hair straightening cream is 3305.20.
How do I classify Hair straightening cream for customs?
Hair straightening cream is classified under HS code 330520 — Hair preparations; for permanent waving or straightening. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are temporary heat-activated straightening sprays included here?
Generally, no. If the spray does not chemically alter the hair permanently and is just a styling aid, it is classified under 3305.90.
Which countries are the top exporters of hair straightening cream (HS 330520)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 330520 (the code used for hair straightening cream) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($24M, 14% of world exports), South Africa ($12M) and Germany ($12M). World exports came to about $173M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of hair straightening cream (HS 330520)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 330520 (the code used for hair straightening cream) in UN Comtrade data were Tanzania ($9.7M, 5.8% of world imports), the United States ($9.5M) and Saudi Arabia ($7.0M). World imports came to about $166M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Hair straightening cream the same in all countries?
The base HS code 330520 for Hair straightening cream is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for hair straightening cream in Brazil?
In Brazil, hair straightening cream (HS 330520) is classified under NCM 3305.20.00.