BEAUTY TAX BLUES: Sales tax on makeup products frustrates women, shopkeepers

A recent government decision to impose a 23-25% sales tax on makeup products has sparked concerns among women and shopkeepers alike, reported 24NewsHD TV Chanel Thursday.

The increased tax has led to a significant rise in prices, making it more challenging for women to maintain their desired beauty standards. Face wash, for instance, has seen a price surge from Rs 350 to Rs 575, while branded face wash has skyrocketed from Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,800. Even mascara, a staple cosmetic item, is now being sold for Rs 350 more than its original price.

The impact of these price hikes is not limited to consumers alone, as shopkeepers have begun to worry about reduced business opportunities. With the cost of cosmetics doubling, business owners find themselves grappling with the dilemma of sustaining profitability in such a challenging economic climate.

Women, too, are expressing their distress over the sudden surge in prices and the overall inflationary pressures affecting their ability to afford beauty products. Some women running beauty parlours have voiced their concerns, highlighting how the increased costs of cosmetics have put a strain on their budgets.

One frustrated woman, while purchasing makeup from a store, directed her anger towards the government, criticizing the imposition of taxes that seemingly have no tangible impact on public services or infrastructure development. The burden of these taxes is now reflected in the rising prices of essential beauty items.

The impact of the new tax measures is evident across various makeup categories. Lip pencils, for example, have seen a Rs 50 increase, making them cost Rs 150. Regular blushes, which were previously priced at Rs 150, now sell for Rs 350. Similarly, branded expansion kits have experienced a significant price jump, going from Rs 500 to Rs 1,500. Even everyday items like lipsticks have seen their prices surge from Rs 150 to Rs 400, while hair color prices have gone up from Rs 125 to Rs 350.

The implications of these price hikes extend beyond individual purchases, affecting the overall affordability and accessibility of beauty products. As women and shopkeepers navigate these financial challenges, the government's decision to impose higher sales taxes on makeup products continues to draw criticism and raise concerns about the overall impact on the cosmetics industry and consumer well-being.