Tomorrow is “Tax Day” here in the US so in honor of the big day we present our list of tax related beauty items that sort of, kind of have to do with science a little bit.
1. Modeling + makeup = money!
If you’re a model you can deduct certain makeup and some clothing items. Project Runway, here I come!
2. Surgery for sale
Cosmetic surgery is not tax deductible if its sole purpose is to make you more attractive. Ironic, huh? And speaking of surgery…
3. Trans-taxable
In 2005, the IRS eliminated the deduction for having transgender surgery. I guess they figured losing your penis was enough of a deduction!
4. Got Makeup?
If you’re like me, you’ll occasionally pick up some products and then never get around to using them. So if you have unopened cosmetics hiding in a closet somewhere collect them up and donate to a women’s shelter for a tax deduction. (Check with your accountant on this one first, I’m a Beauty Brain, not a Tax Brain!)
5. Looking for extra income?
If you sign up to sell Mary Kay cosmetics, the $100 starter kit fee you have to pay for is tax deductible! The good news is you’ll end up a with a lot of Mary Kay cosmetics. The bad news is that you’ll end up with a lot of Mary Kay cosmetics.
6. Those wacky Aussies, Part I
If you live in Australia you can deduct cosmetics provided it’s a necessary part of your job. For example, if you’re an actor you can deduct the cost of maintaining your hairstyle or the cost of stage makeup. You can NOT, however, deduct the cost of cleansing products for skin conditions. Unless of course you have the occupation described in our next item…
7. Those wacky Aussies, Part II
Those wacky Aussies! If you’re an Australian stripper you can deduct not only makeup and makeup removers but also costumes and lingerie as well as. I bet you think there’s NO place else on Earth that gives you a deal like that! Well you’re wrong. Keep reading…
8. Those crazy Canadians
In Canada, sex workers (a somewhat dubious occupational category that includes strippers, prostitutes and porn stars) can deduct not only cosmetics but also clothing, condoms, cosmetic surgery and even “implements.” They get to deduct implements!
9. Save but don’t skimp
Ok, unless you’re willing to live in Australia or Canada and work in the “adult entertainment” business, you’re probably worried about spending too much on cosmetics and not getting a tax break. You might feel better if you read these important reasons to NOT skimp on your appearance.
10. Don’t worry, be a hottie
What? You’re still worried about spending too much on beauty products? Ok, here’s our last tip: check out these 10 ways to look hot without breaking the bank.
– Mid Brain
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Eva Says:
In the US, if you are a bartender or are in any of the nightclub job venues, then you can deduct makeup, hair, lingerie, and clothing:)
Judy Says:
That last link on “10 ways to be a hottie without breaking the bank” is A MUST READ for all beauty junkies in these perilous economic times….SHOP at the DRUGSTORE…rather than the DEP’T STORE. There is ALWAYS something on sale and you can always return it. Yay! More reason to check out Paula Begoun’s recent list of high/low picks for cosmetics.
Karen Says:
Great article; great links!
10 Interesting Tidbits About Taxes And Cosmetics - MakeupTalk Says:
[...] Ok, here’s our last tip: check out these 10 ways to look hot without breaking the bank. Source __________________ 44 y/o, black hair, dark brown eyes, NC25 To view links or images in [...]
teddyp Says:
I find #3 somewhat offensive. Does anyone else?
T
johanna Says:
Dear Beauty Brains
What skin care products do you all use?
Johanna C