For businesses dealing with cosmetics and skincare products, getting the GST classification right is more than just a formality; it’s the key to smooth billing, accurate tax filing, and staying compliant with Indian GST laws. If you’re wondering which products fall under the 33049 HSN code GST rate, you’re not alone. This particular HSN code is often used in the personal care and beauty industry, and understanding its scope can save you from a lot of confusion and potential penalties.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 33049 HSN code, the types of products it includes, the applicable GST rate, and how using tools like GST billing software and inventory management software, including MargBooks, can help your business run more smoothly.
What Exactly Is the 33049 HSN Code?
The 33049 HSN code falls under Chapter 33 of the GST schedule, which deals with perfumery, cosmetics, and toilet preparations. More specifically, 3304 covers beauty or make-up products and skin care preparations that are not classified as medicinal.
The 33049 sub-category includes a wide variety of personal care products commonly used in homes, salons, spas, and cosmetic stores across India.
GST Rate Applicable to Products Under HSN Code 33049
As per the current GST structure, products under the 33049 HSN code attract an 18% GST rate. This rate is split as 9% CGST and 9% SGST for intra-state sales, or 18% IGST for inter-state transactions.
This rate applies to non-essential cosmetic and skincare items. Since these are not medical products, they are not eligible for reduced GST slabs such as 5% or 12%.
Keep in mind, the GST rate can be updated by the GST Council, so it’s always a good idea to stay informed and consult your tax advisor or GST software for the latest updates.
What Products Fall Under the 33049 HSN Code?
Now, let’s talk about the kinds of products that fall under this category. Here’s a list of commonly used items that typically get classified under 33049:
1. Make-Up Products
- Foundations, compact powders, and BB creams
- Lipsticks, lip liners, and glosses
- Eye shadows, mascaras, and eyeliners
- Blushes and highlighters
2. Skin Care Preparations (Non-medicinal)
- Face creams, moisturisers, and cold creams
- Toners, serums, and facial oils
- Cleansers and face washes
- Exfoliating scrubs and face masks
3. Sun Protection Products
- Sunscreen lotions and creams
- Sunblock sprays
- Suntan lotions
4. Hand and Nail Care Products
- Nail polishes and removers
- Cuticle creams and oils
- Hand creams and exfoliants
All these items fall under the 33049 HSN code GST rate of 18%, unless explicitly exempted or reclassified under a different code due to medicinal content or formulation.
Why Accurate HSN Classification Matters?
Wrong classification of products under GST can lead to unnecessary penalties, tax mismatches, and notices from authorities. Many small businesses often overlook the importance of HSN codes or apply them incorrectly.
This is where having a smart GST billing software can make a huge difference. Software solutions, Marg Books, not only help you apply the correct HSN code automatically but also take care of tax calculations, invoice formats, and filing needs.
Role of GST Billing Software in Managing Compliance
Running a business that deals with dozens or even hundreds of beauty and skincare products means there’s little room for manual errors. Using a reliable GST billing software can ensure you’re always compliant.
Here’s how such software helps:
- Automatically suggests the correct HSN code based on product type
- Applies the applicable GST rate (18% for 33049) without manual input
- Generates GST-compliant invoices quickly and accurately
- Keeps track of filing deadlines and tax summaries
Marg Books, for instance, is one such tool that offers GST-ready invoicing along with e-invoicing, e-way bill integration, and easy filing reports all tailored for Indian businesses.
How Inventory Management Software Complements GST Billing?
You may be getting your GST billing right, but what about stock levels, batch tracking, or product expiry? For businesses dealing in beauty and cosmetic products, effective stock control is just as important as tax compliance.
That’s why an integrated inventory management software is essential. Especially for fast-moving consumer goods such as cosmetics, proper stock tracking helps you avoid over-ordering or stock-outs.
With Marg Books, you get real-time inventory updates, low stock alerts, batch-wise tracking, and even expiry date reminders all within the same platform that handles your billing.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the 33049 HSN code GST rate is not just about being tax compliant it’s about building trust with your customers, avoiding penalties, and making your business operations smoother. From make-up items to skincare essentials, if you’re dealing with non-medicinal beauty products, there’s a high chance your items fall under this code and are taxed at 18%.
To avoid mistakes and save time, consider using smart tools, MargBooks, which combine GST billing software and inventory management software in one easy-to-use solution. Whether you’re a salon owner, a beauty product retailer, or an online seller, these tools help you stay focused on growth while they handle compliance.
