The Impact of Tariffs on the Beauty Industry: Navigating the May and June Dates and Stocking Up on Wholesale Products

Attention, beauty professionals! As industry trends shift and economic factors come into play, staying informed is essential. Tariffs can significantly influence your business, affecting product prices, availability, and ultimately your profits. Understanding how these trade policies impact your beauty products, especially in the lashes and brows segment, will help you prepare, adapt, and inform your clients effectively.

With important dates coming up in May and June, it’s time to gear up. This article will explore what tariffs are, how they affect your business, and provide practical tips for optimizing your retail experience.

What are Tariffs?

Tariffs are taxes levied by governments on imported goods. Their main purpose is to influence international trade by making foreign products more expensive compared to local products. For instance, a 25% tariff on imported beauty supplies may result in higher retail prices. This is crucial for you, as a beauty professional, since many supplies such as lashes and brow products originate overseas.

A rise in tariffs can lead to increased prices for consumers. In a recent study, it was revealed that a 10% tariff on imported cosmetics led to a price increase of approximately 3% at retail stores. Understanding how tariffs affect your costs is vital since these increased expenses may force you to either absorb the costs or pass them onto your clients.

Close-up view of beauty product packaging on a display shelf.

How Do Tariffs Affect You and Your Business?

For beauty professionals, particularly in the lashes and brows niche, tariffs can heighten the costs of essential supplies. A staggering 70% of beauty products used in the U.S. are imported, meaning any fluctuation in tariffs can have ripple effects. Higher costs might force businesses to either tighten budgets or pass increased fees onto clients, impacting retention rates.

In tough economic times, luxury services like lash extensions may see a decrease in demand. Shifting your focus toward retail sales can provide a safety net. For example, if you have a well-stocked inventory, you can still meet demand when service requests fluctuate. Stocking up on retail items before tariffs take effect can help preserve your profitability.

Eye-level view of retail beauty display with lashes and brow products.

Importance of Client Education

Selling beauty products is about much more than transactions. It's also about building relationships through education. Equip your clients with knowledge on how to care for their lash extensions and brows at home. For instance, recommending a nourishing serum can help maintain extensions, potentially extending their lifespan by up to 30%. Keeping clients informed not only enriches their experience but also builds loyalty. They'll appreciate your insights and may opt to purchase more products from your retail inventory.

Stocking Up on Retail Products

With the looming threat of tariffs, now is the time to strategically stock up on wholesale beauty products before the critical dates in May and June. The risk of rising prices due to tariffs makes it essential to plan your inventory wisely.

While a lean inventory might suffice temporarily, having a robust selection of high-demand items such as adhesives and brow gels can give you a competitive advantage. Make it a priority to stock popular products that cater to current beauty trends, ensuring that clients find what they need.

Important Dates to Remember

Being aware of significant dates related to tariffs can help shape your operational strategy. Here are two critical milestones:

✅ May 2, 2025 – De Minimis Exemption Eliminated for China

The U.S. ended the $800 de minimis exemption for goods imported from China. Now, all Chinese imports—regardless of value—are subject to duties. This change particularly affects small shipments via postal services.  

✅ May 31, 2025 – Select Tariff Exclusions Expire

The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) extended 164 product-specific exclusions (including certain machinery and medical items) through May 31, 2025. After this date, these products will be subject to standard Section 301 tariffs unless further extensions are granted.   

✅ June 1, 2025 – Increased Duties on Chinese Postal Shipments

For goods shipped from China via international postal services, the U.S. will increase the specific duty to $150 per item or 90% of the item’s value, whichever is higher. This change significantly raises costs for small parcel imports.   

✅ June 14, 2025 – Most Section 301 Tariff Exclusions Expire

The majority of the 429 product-specific exclusions (352 general and 77 COVID-related) from Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports will expire on June 14, 2025. Products losing their exclusions will then be subject to applicable tariffs, typically 25%

Monitoring these dates is essential for maintaining a well-stocked inventory and a profitable business. Proper planning can protect you from the immediate impact of tariffs.

Wide angle view of stylish retail space showcasing beauty products.

Staying Ahead in the Beauty Game

Managing the challenges posed by tariffs may feel overwhelming, but with adequate knowledge and strategic planning, you can navigate this landscape successfully. Focus on educating your clients while stocking up on essential wholesale products before the key dates in May and June.

Transforming your business model to emphasize retail, especially around lashes and brows, can increase your resilience to economic fluctuations. By staying proactive about changes in tariffs and their ramifications, you can maintain a competitive edge in the dynamic beauty industry.

In this evolving setting, knowledge truly empowers beauty professionals. Continue enhancing your services and education efforts, and you'll be well-dressed for whatever economic changes come your way.