Find HS Code and trade information for cuticle remover tool

Cuticle Remover Tool

A cuticle remover tool is a nail care implement used to soften and facilitate the removal of the cuticle, the layer of dead skin at the base of the fingernail. These tools are designed to improve the appearance of nails, prepare them for manicures, and promote healthy nail growth.

Material:

• Stainless Steel: Common for pushers and various scraping/lifting tools due to durability and ease of sterilization.
• Plastic/Acrylic: Often used for cuticle peelers or as handles for metal tools.
• Rubber/Silicone: Found in some pusher designs for gentler cuticle manipulation.
• Chemical Solutions: Many removers utilize formulations containing potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, or other alkaline chemicals to break down dead cuticle tissue.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of a cuticle remover tool is to:

• Soften Cuticles: Chemical removers dissolve dead skin cells, making removal easier and less damaging.
• Remove Dead Skin: Tools physically lift and scrape away loosened cuticle tissue.
• Prepare Nails for Manicures: A clean cuticle area provides a smooth base for polish application and extends the life of a manicure.
• Improve Nail Appearance: Removing excess cuticle can make nails appear longer and healthier.

Function:

Cuticle removers function through two primary mechanisms:

• Chemical Action: Alkaline solutions break the protein bonds in dead cuticle cells, causing them to liquefy.
• Mechanical Action: Tools use scraping, lifting, and pushing motions to detach the softened cuticle from the nail plate.

Usage Scenarios:

• Professional Manicures: Salons routinely use cuticle removers as part of a standard manicure procedure.
• Home Nail Care: Individuals can use these tools for personal nail maintenance.
• Pedicures: Cuticle removers are also used to soften and remove cuticles on toenails.
• Repairing Hangnails: Gentle removal of cuticle around hangnails can prevent further tearing or infection.

Common Types:

• Cuticle Pusher: A tool with a rounded or flat end used to gently push back the cuticle. These can be made of metal, wood, or rubber.
• Cuticle Nipper: Small, scissor-like tool used to carefully trim hangnails and excess cuticle. Requires careful use to avoid injury.
• Cuticle Spatula: Used to apply and remove cuticle remover solutions.
• Cuticle Peeler: A tool designed to gently lift away loosened cuticle after using a remover solution.
• Cuticle Remover Liquid/Gel: Chemical solutions containing alkaline ingredients that soften the cuticle. These are typically applied around the nail and allowed to sit for a short period before removal.
• E-File with Cuticle Bits: Electric nail files with specialized bits for removing cuticle. Requires training and precision.
• Cuticle Fork: A tool with two prongs used to lift and remove softened cuticle.

Safety Considerations:

• Avoid Excessive Use: Overuse of cuticle removers and aggressive trimming can damage the nail matrix and lead to infection.
• Sterilization: Metal tools should be thoroughly sterilized before and after each use to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Precautions with Chemical Solutions: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
• Professional Assistance: If you are unsure about using these tools, seek assistance from a qualified nail technician.

Cuticle remover tools fall under articles of cutlery used for manicure or pedicure purposes. Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 8214203000: This HS code covers “Other articles of cutlery (for example, hair clippers, butchers' or kitchen cleavers, chopping or mincing knives, paper knives); manicure or pedicure sets and instruments (including nail files); base metal parts thereof: Manicure or pedicure sets and instruments (including nail files), and parts thereof: Cuticle or cornknives, cuticle pushers, nail files, nailcleaners, nail nippers and clippers, all the foregoing used for manicure or pedicure purposes, and parts thereof”.

  • 82: Chapter 82 covers knives with cutting blades, other cutlery, and articles of cutlery.
  • 14: Heading 8214 specifically covers articles of cutlery for manicure, pedicure, and other similar purposes.
  • 203000: This subheading narrows down to manicure or pedicure sets and instruments, including cuticle or cornknives, cuticle pushers, nail files, nailcleaners, nail nippers and clippers.

• 8214909000: This HS code covers “Other articles of cutlery (for example, hair clippers, butchers' or kitchen cleavers, chopping or mincing knives, paper knives); manicure or pedicure sets and instruments (including nail files); base metal parts thereof: Other: Other (including parts)”.

  • 82: Chapter 82 covers knives with cutting blades, other cutlery, and articles of cutlery.
  • 14: Heading 8214 specifically covers articles of cutlery for manicure, pedicure, and other similar purposes.
  • 909000: This subheading covers other articles not specifically mentioned elsewhere within heading 8214, including parts.

Regarding HS code 8214203000 and 8214909000, the applicable tax rate is a base tariff of 4.0% or 1.4¢ each + 3.2% respectively. A 30.0% additional tariff will be applied after April 2, 2025. The total tariff rate will be 34.0% or 1.4¢ each + 3.2% + 30.0% respectively.