Import Classification and Regulatory Compliance for Hair Dyes, Soaps, and Hair Removal Products in South Korea Released

When importing and distributing overseas beauty products or household chemical products in South Korea, determining whether the items fall under the Cosmetics Act is a critical factor in defining the level of customs difficulty and the necessary import clearance procedures. The items you inquired about—hair dyes, hair removal agents, solid soaps, hair fibers, and hair removal wax—were previously managed as quasi-drugs or general consumer goods. However, following amendments to relevant laws, they are now all classified as cosmetics, requiring stricter quality control and import compliance.

Functional Cosmetics Classification for Hair Dyes, Bleaches, and Hair Removal Agents

First, products designed to change hair color or remove unwanted body hair, such as hair dyes, hair bleaches, and hair removal agents, are now categorized as Functional Cosmetics. While these were managed as quasi-drugs under the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act in the past, they were transitioned to the functional cosmetics category under the Cosmetics Act effective May 30, 2017. This shift was implemented to establish a more specialized management system for products that cause direct chemical reactions on the human body.

When importing these functional cosmetics, you must adhere to the following:

• Functional Cosmetics Evaluation and Reporting: Prior to import, you must complete a 'Functional Cosmetics Evaluation' by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) or submit a report for approval according to regulations.
• Strict Ingredient Standards: You must verify that the products do not contain prohibited ingredients or exceed the blending limits set by the 「Regulations on the Evaluation of Functional Cosmetics」.
• Import Requirement Verification: Like general cosmetics, you must file a Standard Import Declaration (EDI) with the Korea Pharmaceutical Traders Association (KPTA). Functional proof documentation must be prepared in advance to ensure smooth customs clearance.

Strengthened Management for Solid Soaps, Hair Fibers, and Hair Removal Wax

The management of solid soaps (toilet soaps), hair fibers, and hair removal wax was transferred from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. Under the government's 'Safety Management Measures for Household Chemical Products,' these items were formally incorporated into the Enforcement Rules of the Cosmetics Act as of December 31, 2019.

As these products moved from being 'consumer goods' to 'cosmetics,' the following practical changes occurred:

• Toilet Soap (Solid Soap): Even simple cleansing soaps can now only be imported and distributed by businesses registered as a Cosmetics Responsible Distributor. They must also meet management standards equivalent to cosmetic manufacturing facilities.
• Hair Fibers: Since hair fibers are applied to the body to fill in thinning hair, they are now subject to the safety standards defined by the Cosmetics Act.
• Hair Removal Wax: Waxes used for the physical removal of hair are also classified as cosmetics and must pass inspections regarding hazardous substance content before clearance is granted.

Key Professional Advice for Import Customs Clearance

When importing these items, your priority should be verifying your status as an importer under the Cosmetics Act rather than simply checking the HS Code. To import products classified as cosmetics, you must be registered as a Cosmetics Responsible Distributor and appoint a qualified Quality Manager to oversee safety standards.

Furthermore, for every shipment, you must process a Standard Import Declaration (EDI). It is essential to conduct a preliminary review of the Ingredients List obtained from the overseas manufacturer to ensure no domestically prohibited raw materials are included. Specifically for hair dyes (functional cosmetics), if certain ingredients exceed domestic limits, it can lead to a denial of clearance or a disposal order, resulting in significant financial loss. Therefore, preliminary ingredient matching and verification via a professional is highly recommended.

In conclusion, all items mentioned are currently classified as cosmetics (including functional cosmetics). We advise you to thoroughly prepare for the import requirements mandated by the Cosmetics Act to ensure safe and prompt customs clearance.