French skincare has a reputation for quality and elegance, and it’s easy to find global websites offering international shipping straight from France, UK, or other European countries.
But before you hit “checkout,” it’s important to understand what happens when your order crosses U.S. borders — and why buying from a U.S.-based business often costs less in the end.
1. Import fees apply no matter how small your order is
Many shoppers assume that if a package’s value is low, it won’t be taxed or charged at the border. Unfortunately, that’s not true anymore.
When skincare products enter the United States, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) both get involved. These agencies review cosmetic imports, and fees are applied regardless of shipment value.
That means even a $50 serum can trigger:
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Customs duties (tariffs): 15% or $7.50
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Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): a mandatory customs fee, with a minimum charge of about $30–$35, even on low-value parcels.
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Carrier or brokerage fees: FedEx, UPS, and DHL charge extra for customs clearance and FDA processing, often $56 per shipment.
So, while your French order might look cheaper online, these “surprise” costs can add 40–50% or more to the total by the time it reaches your door.
2. Carriers add their own handling and FDA filing fees
Express carriers act as your customs broker when a package arrives. They handle the paperwork, pay duties on your behalf, and then bill you for it later — often with added service charges.
Common add-ons include:
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Customs brokerage or clearance fees
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FDA reporting or handling fees (since skincare is FDA-regulated)
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Duty advancement or collection fees
You can’t decline these — they’re automatically added before your package is delivered.
3. U.S. retailers already handle all import obligations
When you buy from a business established in the United States, you avoid all these extra steps and hidden costs.
Here’s why:
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The retailer has already paid the customs duties, MPF, and carrier brokerage fees on their bulk shipments.
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Their products are FDA-compliant and cleared for sale in the U.S.
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You pay only the sticker price and at Lefrenchskincare you don't even pay local sales tax, just like any other domestic purchase.
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Returns and replacements are faster and easier — no international paperwork or customs delays.
In short, they’ve done the importing work (and paid the fees) so you don’t have to.
4. Buying domestic gives you peace of mind
Beyond saving money, buying through a U.S. retailer gives you:
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Guaranteed compliance: Products meet FDA labeling and safety standards.
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Faster shipping: No customs delays or inspection holds.
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Simpler returns: You deal with a domestic company, not an overseas sender.
You get authentic French skincare — but with local customer support and no surprise bills from your carrier.
