Since most of us are born with an innate sense of justice, it’s particularly annoying when we realize that some things are just not fair. Exhibit A: the pink tax. Despite years of consumer activism and outcry, companies continue to charge more for women’s products than men’s products that serve the same function. Here are four frustrating examples of the pink tax in action. Ugh.

What Is The Pink Tax

The pink tax is a phenomenon that affects women and girls more than men. It’s the idea that women and girls pay more for products and services marketed to them simply because they are female. The tax includes everything from shampoo to dry cleaning to car repairs. Follow along as we explore some of the most common examples of it in action, and we’ll also discuss why it exists and how to solve it.

The idea goes back to the 18th century. British Parliament designated certain occupations as “men’s work” and other jobs as “women’s work.” Pink is a color traditionally associated with the feminine side of things. Women were charged a higher tax rate than males to incentivize more females to take the “women’s work.”

Examples

One of the most blatant examples of the pink tax is the price difference between men’s and women’s razors.

A study by The New York Times found that, on average, women pay about 48% more for razors and other personal grooming products than men. In some cases, the only difference between men’s and women’s products is the color of the packaging.

Women’s Clothing

Another example is in clothing prices. Studies have shown that women often pay more for clothes, even when they are the same as menswear options. This example may be because retailers know that women are more likely to buy items based on their looks rather than how they fit. As a result, women’s clothes tend to be more expensive than men’s clothes of the same style and quality.

Clothing brands, like the ones sold by such companies as Ralph Lauren, JC Penney, and The Gap, offer women’s versions of their clothing, but the prices are not the same if you’re a woman. Coats from these brands cost more for women – from $550 to $850 – than they do for men. Women’s jeans are twice as expensive as men’s (they cost $439 vs. $198) and are thicker.

Feminine Hygiene

Women pay $1.8 billion in extra taxes annually for using personal care products with the words “feminine” or “feminine hygiene” printed on the box or the package.

You’re probably thinking, “I can’t imagine that would be fair.” Unless you’re thinking about the old saying, “The squeaky wheel gets the grease.” This is a form of discrimination against women who, on average, use more feminine hygiene products, so it’s not hard to imagine an uproar if this ever came to light.

Pink Tax Statistics

The pink tax also affects products specifically marketed to girls and young women. For instance, a study by the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs found that items like deodorant, shampoo, and conditioner for women cost an average of seven percent more than similar products for men even though the ingredients in these products are usually identical.

Why It Exists

One theory is that it’s simply due to sexism and gender discrimination. Retailers know they can get away with charging women more for certain items because women have historically been paid less than men and have less disposable income.

The Effects

Whatever the reasons, it’s clear that higher prices put an unfair burden on women and girls. The pink tax can further widen the gender pay gap in a society where women earn less than men. Additionally, higher costs can make it harder for women to save money and build financial security.

Related: Women’s Rights Activism

Conclusion

Citizens can do several things to address the pink tax. One solution is to raise awareness about the issue and educate consumers about the price differences between men’s and women’s products. Another solution is for lawmakers to pass legislation outlawing gender-based pricing discrimination. Finally, shoppers can vote with their wallets by purchasing products from companies that don’t charge more for women’s versions of items.

What Is the Pink Tax - the 4 Worst Examples