HS Code for Lip balm

Lip balm is classified under HS code 3304.10, which covers lip make-up preparations. Chapter 33 encompasses essential oils and resinoids, perfumery, cosmetic, or toilet preparations. Heading 3304 specifically deals with beauty or make-up preparations and preparations for the care of the skin. Sub-heading 3304.10 is dedicated to lip make-up. Even if a lip balm is marketed for its moisturizing or protective properties rather than color, it is generally classified here because it is applied to the lips for cosmetic or protective purposes. The General Interpretative Rules (GIR) prioritize the specific sub-heading for lip preparations over more general skin care categories. This includes products like chapsticks, tinted balms, and medicated lip balms that do not contain a high enough concentration of active pharmaceutical ingredients to be considered medicaments. Importers must be careful to distinguish between simple lip care and products with therapeutic claims that might shift the classification to Chapter 30. The consistency of the product (waxy, liquid, or cream) does not affect its classification under 3304.10, provided it is intended for lip application.

Products Included

• Moisturizing lip balms
• Tinted lip balms
• Chapsticks
• Lip salves (cosmetic)
• Sunscreen lip balms

Common Misclassification

Lip balm is frequently misclassified under 3304.99, which is the residual category for other skin care preparations. However, because 3304.10 specifically mentions "lip make-up," it takes precedence for any product applied to the lips. It is also sometimes confused with 3004.90 (medicaments) if it contains ingredients like menthol or camphor; however, unless it is primarily a therapeutic drug, it remains in 3304.10.

FAQ

What is the HS code for lip balm?

The HS code for lip balm is 3304.10, categorized under lip make-up preparations.

Are medicated lip balms classified differently?

Generally, no. Most medicated lip balms are still classified under 3304.10 unless they have a primary curative or prophylactic function and meet the criteria for Chapter 30.