Will HSA pay for retinol?

Asked by: Don Zboncak  |  Last update: October 23, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (53 votes)

"For instance, over-the-counter retinol, a well-known antiaging ingredient in many beauty products, is in many acne treatments, making it eligible for FSA/HSA funds," Dr.

Can I use my HSA for retinol?

All retinol and prescription retinoids are HSA/FSA eligible! (I learned this recently too) Sunscreen I already knew was. I got mine directly from Amazon using a debit card associated with my HSA account. You can search all HSA/FSA products directly from Amazon or is the HSA storefront directly for SPF!

What skincare can I use my HSA for?

Eligible products may include sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, acne cleansers and medicated ointments, eczema treatments, scar and wound care products, and anti-itch creams. Basic skincare and cosmetic treatments are typically not covered.

Is tretinoin covered under HSA?

It can be used to treat acne, fine wrinkles, dark spots, and rough skin. It works by speeding up cell turnover. Yes! Medications prescribed by a licensed provider are eligible to be paid for or reimbursed by your HSA or FSA.

Can you use HSA for vitamin supplements?

In general, vitamins are not considered an HSA eligible expense unless they are prescribed by a doctor for a specific medical condition.

How To Use Your FSA & HSA on AMAZON (Easy)

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Can I use my HSA for gym membership?

Generally, the IRS doesn't allow pretax dollars in HSAs or FSAs for gym memberships. This is because they see them as expenses for general well-being rather than medical necessity. However, with a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN), your HSA or FSA could be used to fund those expenses.

Is collagen HSA eligible?

Collagen may qualify for FSA/HSA reimbursement if prescribed by a healthcare provider to address a specific medical condition. Examples include: Osteoarthritis: Collagen supplements may help reduce joint pain and improve function in individuals with osteoarthritis.

Is retinol FSA eligible?

Retinoids. Prescription and over-the-counter retinoids may be used to treat acne, and are also FSA-eligible.

Can I buy deodorant with HSA?

Deodorant reimbursement is not eligible with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA), limited-purpose flexible spending account (LPFSA) or a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA).

Are tampons HSA eligible?

With the passage of the CARES Act in March 2020, tampons and other menstrual care products are now fully FSA-/HSA-eligible. According to the text of the bill, menstrual care products include, “tampon, pad, liner, cup, sponge, or similar product used by individuals with respect to menstruation…”

Can you buy hair products with HSA?

Over-the-counter toiletries or personal hygiene items which may include, but are not limited to shampoo, toothpaste, conditioners, hand creams, deodorant, shaving cream, razors, dental floss, body powders, hair gels/sprays, make-up, nail polish accessories, soap, mouthwash, etc., are not reimbursable.

Can I use my HSA for massages?

Your HSA can pay for massage therapy, though you'll likely need a letter of medical necessity (LMN) from your doctor. An LMN states what condition the treatment is for, how many sessions you need, and any other relevant details. An HSA may also be used on alternative or holistic treatments, such as: Massage therapy.

Can I buy sunscreen with HSA?

Sunscreen for adults and for kids is eligible for reimbursement with flexible spending accounts (FSA), health savings accounts (HSA), and health reimbursement accounts (HRA) under certain conditions. Only sunscreens with SPF 15+ and "broad spectrum" protection are eligible.

What skin treatments are covered by HSA?

However, if you have a skin condition that requires treatment, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis, the cost of prescription medications, dermatologist visits, and related products may be eligible for HSA reimbursement.

Are electric toothbrushes HSA eligible?

Routine electric toothbrushes for general oral hygiene are usually not eligible.

Does HSA cover toilet paper?

Toiletries used for everyday personal use aren't FSA and HSA eligible items. Items like shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, cosmetics and toilet paper are considered personal hygiene products, not medical aids.

Is the Apple Watch HSA eligible?

Even though Fitbits and Apple Watches measure important health data, they currently do not qualify for HSA reimbursement, as they are considered for general health use and not intended to treat or manage a specific medical condition.

Are vitamins HSA eligible?

Most vitamins and supplements are not eligible with an FSA or HSA because the IRS considers them for general good health.

Can I buy face moisturizer with HSA?

Medicated face cream is eligible for reimbursement with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA). Medicated face cream is not eligible with a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA) or a limited-purpose flexible spending account (LPFSA).

Can I use HSA for retinol?

If to treat acne, it is eligible. However, the cost of regular skin care does not qualify. If the expense can be used for both cosmetic and medical (such as Retin-A, which can be used to treat both acne and wrinkles), a physician's recommendation* with the medical condition is required.

Can I put gym on FSA?

Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) let you reserve pre-tax dollars for eligible medical expenses. Fitness fees do not always qualify as eligible HSA/FSA expenses. But they may qualify if a provider recommends that you exercise to prevent or treat a medical condition.

Can you buy body wash with HSA?

Medicated body or face wash is eligible for reimbursement with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA).

Are fitness watches HSA eligible?

To purchase a fitness tracker with a consumer-directed healthcare account like an FSA, HSA or HRA, a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) is required to show that the device will be used to treat a legitimate medical condition such as obesity.

Can I pay for Noom with my HSA?

Your Noom Med (Telehealth) subscription should be a qualifying medical expense for most HSA/FSA plans. While we're unable to accept direct payments at this time, we can provide you with the documentation needed for reimbursement. When you signed up, you should've received a subscription receipt in your email.

Can I use my HSA for Botox?

Can you use HSA funds to pay for Botox? If you're using Botox for cosmetic purposes like reducing wrinkles or fine lines, it's not considered an HSA-eligible expense. However, Botox may be HSA eligible if it's used to treat a medical condition like chronic migraines, severe muscle spasms, or overactive bladder.