Is the Pink Tax Real? What Gen Z Women Need to Know
If you’ve ever grabbed the “women’s” version of something and wondered why it costs more just because it’s pink or has glitter…welcome to the pink tax. It isn’t an official tax; it’s a price markup on products marketed to women, from razors and deodorant to basic T-shirts and sometimes services like dry cleaning.
Where the pink tax shows up
Same product, different color: Razors, shampoo, body wash. Different packaging, higher price.
“For her” versions: Smaller sizes, “delicate” scents, premium price.
Services: Alterations, haircuts, dry cleaning—women’s items often cost more to service than similar men’s items.
Why this still happens
Marketing teams know we’ve been trained to buy “our” version. Add a little scent, change the bottle, use soft pastels, and it feels tailored—even when it’s the same formula.
How to fight back (and keep your coins)
Compare unit prices, not vibes. Check the cost per ounce or per count.
Buy “gender-neutral” or men’s where it makes sense. Razors and deodorant are common wins.
Switch to subscription or bulk. Club stores and online subscriptions cut per-use costs.
Try refillable and unscented. Refills are cheaper over time; unscented avoids the “girly premium.”
Use your voice. Leave reviews, email brands, support companies with transparent pricing.
When paying more might be worth it
If a product genuinely serves your needs (fit, ingredients, materials), it’s not “wrong” to pay more—just make sure it’s for real utility, not because the bottle says “for her.”
Mini-challenge
On your next drugstore run, compare two items side by side and snap a photo of the price per ounce. Tag @thegrlinitiative and share the better buy.
