:quality(85):upscale()/2025/07/29/744/n/1922153/59c149696888fc36f3aef1.05112632_.png?ssl=1 "FSA- and HSA-Eligible Beauty Products to Shop")
Shopping for beauty products can be fun, but it can also add up quickly. No matter how good they make you feel (or look), no one expects a trip to Ulta or Sephora to appear on their credit card bill. However, you can save on your beauty routine by using your FSA (flexible spending account) and HSA (health savings account) on eligible beauty products.
Enrolling in any of these programs allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars for certain medical expenses and conditions, such as over-the-counter medications and even skin care products. To help you make the most of your FSA or HSA benefits and shop strategically, we've enlisted the help of a board-certified dermatologist. Nitin ReddyMD to detail the benefits, what types of products are eligible and why, and how to optimize your shopping list. We've also included some of the best FSA- and HSA-eligible skin care products you can stock up on, including a few of our editor picks.
The Best FSA and HSA Eligible Beauty Products You Can Buy Right Now
What is the difference between an FSA and an HSA?
To take full advantage of these benefits, it's helpful to understand what FSA and HSA accounts are and the differences between them. According to Dr. Reddy, both FSA and HSA benefits allow you to set aside pre-tax money to spend on health care expenses, but FSAs have an annual contribution limit that you can specify during the enrollment period. He notes that employers typically offer FSAs, and HSAs are contingent on participation in a high-deductible health plan.
“One of the main benefits of an HSA is that it is portable and stays with the account owner when changing jobs,” says Dr. Reddy. “Other benefits of an HSA include higher contribution limits, rollovers, investment options and flexible withdrawals. It is critical to carefully review the terms, contribution limits, and associated costs of both types of accounts to determine their suitability for your needs.”
How can beauty products qualify for tax-free benefits?
Dr. Reddy says that while beauty products themselves may not qualify for FSA/HSA, those that contain ingredients proven to treat conditions such as acne, eczema or prevent skin cancer may be eligible for FSA/HSA coverage. “For example, over-the-counter retinol, a known anti-aging ingredient in many cosmetic products, is present in many acne treatment“Similarly, blemish correctors containing salicylic acid, another effective acne treatment ingredient, often qualify as FSA/HSA eligible.”
Along with acne treatment, sunscreen suitable because it helps prevent skin cancer. He also notes that some moisturizers may claim benefit if they help treat eczema. “If there is any doubt about eligibility for a particular product, it is always advisable to check with your account administrator first,” he says.
How We Test the Best FSA and HSA Eligible Beauty Products
We test a ton of products, so when we say something is worth your FSA or HSA dollars, we mean it.
- We check eligibility – Each product featured has been verified against FSA and HSA guidelines to confirm it is eligible for reimbursement, usually through a trusted retailer such as an FSA store or official brand documentation.
- We try them ourselves – Our team of editors personally tests each product to evaluate texture, scent, ease of application and overall impression.
- We speak to dermatologists and experts – For products like acne treatments, sunscreens or medicated skin care, we consult with board-certified dermatologists to understand the ingredients and what makes them effective.
- We take into account user feedback – We analyze hundreds of verified reviews to find out what real users are saying about the results, potential side effects, and long-term benefits.
- We test different skin types – From sensitive and acne-prone to oily and dry, we ensure that products are rated for a variety of skin types and tones whenever possible.
- We estimate the cost – Whether it's acceptable or not, the product should be worth your money. We consider price, product size, and performance to determine if it is a reasonable FSA/HSA expense.
How can consumers take advantage of FSA/HSA benefits for beauty products?
“Any products marked as FSA/HSA eligible can be purchased using your FSA or HSA account, providing a convenient way to manage your healthcare expenses while saving taxes,” he says. Sites like Sephora, CVSAnd Amazon There are certain sections you can shop in that filter out products that are eligible for the benefit. “I recommend carefully evaluating your skin care regimen to determine which products may qualify for coverage. Consulting with a local dermatologist can help you develop a customized skin care regimen that suits your specific skin conditions,” says Dr. Reddy.
He recommends replacing non-eligible items with FSA/HSA eligible items, but cautions against spending too much on non-essential items if you can help it.
Below, we've rounded up the best beauty products you can get with your FSA or HSA benefits.
Expert featured in this article
Nitin Reddy is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
Update December 23, 2025, 3:00 pm ET: Prices have been updated and availability of all products has been checked.
User reviews may have been lightly edited for clarity.
