Girl Math: Pay Extra

- Ankit

What Is the Concept of Gender-Based Pricing?

If you’ve noticed that a woman’s razor is more expensive than a man’s even though they are the same, you’ve seen gender-based pricing, or what’s known as the “pink tax.” Although it goes unnoticed, gender inequality is a constant issue.

The Pink Tax in India Every Day:

Gender differences in prices are found in many places in India.

The price of a Gillette Venus razor is usually ₹50–₹100 higher than that of a Gillette Mach3.

Women usually pay ₹300–₹500 for a basic haircut, but men can have the same style for just ₹100–₹200.

Women’s clothes are usually more expensive and described as “must-have” fashion pieces, even if they are made from the same basic materials as men’s.

It’s not only about making things better; it’s about expecting more. Applying a pink label or lavender fragrance can make the price higher.

However, Why Does This Take Place?

Women are made to believe, in many ways, that their value is based on how they look. The pressure leads to the success of the beauty, grooming, and wellness industries. It is well known by brands that women tend to spend more to fit into society’s expectations, so they price their products accordingly.

It’s clever. It is not fair.

Without laws, there are no questions.

While some nations are now fighting against gendered pricing, India has not passed any special laws to prevent it. Most of the time, we aren’t aware that it is happening to us. We pay without protest, since this type of inequality is now considered normal.

The High Price of Being a Woman

Another problem is that women are paid less, do more work around the house for free, and still have to pay more to participate on an equal footing. It’s more important to focus on dignity, fairness, and value, not only on the amount of money.

How Can You Help?

See how the two are not the same. Compare prices.

Don’t hesitate to mention it when you see it online, in reviews, or at stores.

Choose brands that sell their products at the same price for everyone.

Being aware of a little can create big changes. You are the first person to start.

Final Thought

When you shop for something or book an appointment, try to ask yourself:

Is the extra cost for me just because I’m a woman, or because I’m supposed to accept it?

If the answer is yes, we need to start speaking up and showing our bills.