Women have been cheated out of their hard-earned money, notoriously already slashed thanks to the gender pay gap, for years. The crime, best known as the cute, innocent-sounding “pink-tax” is nothing more than “grand theft woman.”
When products skew pink, they skyrocket in price and often shrink in size. This means that women are left with less of what they need twice — less product and less cash. Fight back against the Pink Tax and buy strategically in these five product categories.
1. Period Care Alternatives
Men and women have different physiological needs, but the female form has been force-fed sub-par period care. Tampons and pads are functional, but their antiquated design and health risks leave little to be desired. Menstrual cups are eco-friendly but present a steep and anxiety-inducing learning curve, with the fear of leaks frequently winning out.
Reach for period underwear instead and get the best of both worlds — ease of use and leak protection. Lined with multiple layers of technologically advanced fabric, menstrual flow is wicked away from the body, absorbed, and retained. Available in nearly every style, color, and size, no woman is without alternative options for period care.
This advanced underwear can be worn with traditional period products for extra protection or peace of mind. Plus, women who’ve traditionally struggled with typical period care now have options.
Period underwear lasts just as long as your regular underwear does, and the price is in line with traditional underwear. Worn all day like regular underwear, it also adds more flexibility to your life, eliminating period-induced bathroom breaks.
Women managing bladder leaks and postpartum care can also use period underwear as alternatives to bulky undergarments. This means no more repeat purchases of expensive, uncomfortable leak protection and better-fitting and confidence-boosting leak protection.
2. Men’s Clothing
Step beyond the women’s section of your favorite store’s offerings and into the men’s section for more affordable options. Whether you’re looking for an oversized sweatshirt or everyday basic t-shirt, the men’s department likely has what you need.
Wide-waistband sweatshirts are having a moment, thanks to their easy comfort and suitability for curvy hips. In the women’s section, this is a special offering, but in the men’s section, it’s the norm. The fabric weight of men’s offerings is often more durable, too, reducing pilling and looking newer, longer.
Denim designed for men can flatter the female form, and from stores you may not frequent. Classic western-wear brands often found at feed and livestock stores are affordable and more durable than those mimicking their style.
Basic t-shirts complete a minimalist look, but off-the-rack basics for women can be inflated. Opt for the department store specials in the men’s area to fill your everyday basics. Add in socks, too, especially as tall, scrunch-worthy styles are enjoying a moment.
3. Non-Mainstream Shaving Supplies
Some of the most famously over-priced-for-no-reason items are shaving supplies. Across gendered products, this one’s already on lockdown at your local pharmacy, but look at the packaging closely. Products marketed to men are often priced lower yet have higher razor cartridge counts, especially on new razor handles.
Aside from styling, there’s no measurable difference between men’s and women’s razors. Think utilitarian about your shaving and choose the blade count that works for you, regardless of product labeling.
Shaving products and aids are another thing to watch for, as fruity, colorful shave creams in tiny sizes reign supreme. The price for women’s shave gel is often more than twice the price as men’s shave cream but both work similarly. Reach for the men’s shave cream, which can even be found at the dollar store.
Combat pink tax on your hair removal products altogether and explore laser hair removal. In-office treatment has been around for years, but at-home laser devices can be obtained for less than $200. Charged with enough flashes to fully remove unwanted hair in multiple areas, it saves you money and time long-term.
4. Shop Gender Neutral
You should choose items that reflect your style, but doing so isn’t necessary in every area of life. Sometimes, the products you need just need to work, so being gender agnostic can be a great money-saving strategy.
A teapot just needs to hold your tea, not tell your life story. Opt for classic, effective products that pull their weight when you buy new. If you’re committed to cottage-core, thrift for florals and lace, which will give you a more authentic look anyway.
Shop with gender-neutral brands for others in your family, too. Shop basic outfitters for kids’ clothes that can work for all of your little ones and even passed down. Follow suit with toys and look for classic favorites in primary colors that spark every kids’ imagination.
Buy medication wisely, too, recognizing marketing gimmicks when you see them. Pain medication marketed to women is often little more than a lesser dose of traditional medication plus caffeine. Shop your favorite box store for medication necessities and leave the false advertising behind.
Shop With Brands Who Respect Your Money
Women have woken up to the penalties they’ve paid thanks to the pink tax, and brands have, too. Startups focused on serving women without taking advantage of them have done well and show no signs of stopping.
Find brands whose products are fairly priced and well-designed, and share the word with others. Make the pink tax irrelevant, keeping more of your money and getting all the value.
