Today I want to talk about something that’s been simmering for a while: the quiet discrimination adult-oriented businesses face when trying to operate professionally online.
I run a verified, age-gated, ethically operated leather gear business. I don’t sell smut—I sell craftsmanship, culture, and connection. But platforms like Pinterest don’t seem to care about nuance.
This morning, I received the following email from Pinterest:
You recently uploaded a catalog to Pinterest, but it looks like your business does not follow some of our merchant guidelines… Your business does not meet our policy on prohibited products… While we are unable to approve your business for distributing products on Pinterest, we hope you will continue to use Pinterest to promote your business organically or through ads…
They go on to say I’ve been rejected as a merchant. No access to their merchant tools. No product distribution. Just a vague “violation” and a warning that further infractions could lead to account deactivation.
So: This is what I got from the emails :
So let me get this straight: As a merchant? No. But as an advertiser? Sure—hand over your dollars.
I’m not allowed to distribute my catalog, but I’m welcome to pay for ads. That’s the message.
And since my product photos are apparently too much for Pinterest’s delicate sensibilities, maybe I’ll just insert a custom image that says:
“Place your imagination here—my photos are banned.”
Let me be clear: I advertise responsibly across platforms like Instagram, Google, TikTok, and WhatsApp. My site includes age verification. My imagery is no more provocative than mainstream lingerie ads.
Pinterest’s rejection doesn’t just block my catalog—it sends a message that adult-oriented businesses, no matter how ethical or tasteful, aren’t welcome.
I won’t let that stand. I’ll continue to educate, advocate, and build my brand on platforms that respect nuance and integrity.
If you’re a creator, merchant, or customer in the adult space, you deserve better. And I’ll keep fighting for that.
