Product classification
HS code for Powder puff: 9616.20
Powder puffs and pads, for the application of cosmetics or toilet preparations.
Classification of powder puff under HS 9616.20
Powder puffs and pads used for the application of cosmetics or toilet preparations are classified under HS code 9616.20. This heading is situated within Chapter 96, which covers miscellaneous manufactured articles. The classification is specific to the intended use of the product: the application of powders, foundations, or other cosmetic substances to the skin. Whether the puff is made of textile materials, foam, or animal hair, its classification remains under 9616.20 as long as it is a finished pad or puff. This code is essential for distinguishing cosmetic applicators from general textile articles or cleaning sponges. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System clarify that this heading includes puffs and pads for applying any kind of powder or cosmetic, regardless of the material they are made of, provided they are clearly identifiable as such. This functional classification ensures that even if a puff is made of a material that might otherwise fall under Chapter 39 (plastics) or Chapter 63 (other made-up textile articles), its specific role in the beauty and personal care industry dictates its placement in Chapter 96. The item must be a finished product; bulk rolls of material intended to be cut into puffs would be classified by their constituent material.
- Covers
- Velvet powder puffs for face powder
- Cotton wool pads for makeup application
- Foam cosmetic applicators and sponges
- Quilted pads for applying toilet preparations
- Lambskin puffs for cosmetic use
- Synthetic fiber makeup pads
- Also under 9616.20
- Beautyblender sponges
- Real Techniques makeup sponges
- Ecotools powder puffs
- Shiseido facial cotton
- generic velour powder puffs
- Fenty Beauty sponges
- Juno & Co. sponges.
Codes often confused with 9616.20
Common mistake. Powder puffs are often misclassified under 9603.30, which covers artists' brushes, writing brushes, and similar brushes for the application of cosmetics. If the applicator has a handle and resembles a brush, it moves to 9603. However, if it is a soft pad or puff, 9616.20 is correct. Additionally, 3926.90 (Other articles of plastics) or 6307.90 (Other made-up textile articles) are frequently used for sponges or pads. These are incorrect because 9616.20 is a more specific heading for cosmetic applicators. Importers must distinguish between a general-purpose cleaning sponge (Chapter 39) and a cosmetic puff (9616.20) based on packaging and design.
Top exporters and importers of HS 961620 (the code used for powder puff), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 961620 (the code used for powder puff) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 61% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 14% 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 961620, not only powder puff.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $249M 61% of world exports
- 2 Netherlands $24M 5.9% of world exports
- 3 United States $21M 5.3% of world exports
World total: $407M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $61M 14% of world imports
- 2 Japan $46M 11% of world imports
- 3 France $38M 8.8% of world imports
World total: $433M 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 powder puff
Brazil classifies powder puff under NCM 9616.20.00: HS 9616.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about powder puff
What is the HS code for Powder puff?
The HS code for Powder puff is 961620 (Powder puffs and pads; for the application of cosmetics or toilet preparations). The HS code for a powder puff is 9616.20. This code specifically covers powder-puffs and pads for the application of cosmetics or toilet preparations.
How do I classify Powder puff for customs?
Powder puff is classified under HS code 961620 — Powder puffs and pads; for the application of cosmetics or toilet preparations. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this include makeup sponges?
Yes, provided they are finished pads or puffs intended for cosmetic application. If they are imported as bulk material or general-purpose sponges, they may be classified under Chapter 39 or 40.
Which countries are the top exporters of powder puff (HS 961620)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 961620 (the code used for powder puff) in UN Comtrade data were China ($249M, 61% of world exports), the Netherlands ($24M) and the United States ($21M). World exports came to about $407M, 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 powder puff (HS 961620)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 961620 (the code used for powder puff) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($61M, 14% of world imports), Japan ($46M) and France ($38M). World imports came to about $433M, 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 Powder puff the same in all countries?
The base HS code 961620 for Powder puff 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 powder puff in Brazil?
In Brazil, powder puff (HS 961620) is classified under NCM 9616.20.00.