Is Acne Treatment (Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid) HSA/FSA Eligible?
Treats a recognized medical condition (acne), which separates it from general cosmetic skincare.
Account rule vs. tax deduction: since January 1, 2020, over-the-counter medicine can be paid from an HSA or FSA without a prescription. CARES Act §3702 removed the prescription requirement from IRC §223 for HSAs, and Pub. 969 states the same rule for FSAs and HRAs. That change covers the accounts only: Pub. 502 still does not allow an itemized deduction for non-prescribed drugs other than insulin.
How the rule applies
Acne is a recognized skin condition, and over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are medicines for it. That is what separates them from everyday skincare, which is excluded.
What to keep for your records
Keep the receipt showing the product name. Products with active ingredients and drug facts labels are easiest to defend.
Watch out for
Cleansers, moisturizers and cosmetic items bought for appearance are not eligible, even if the box mentions acne-prone skin. Look for a Drug Facts panel on the package as a quick test.
Where to buy it HSA/FSA-eligible
Pay with your HSA or FSA card directly, or buy elsewhere and save the receipt to submit for reimbursement.
Shop on FSA Store → Shop on HSA Store →Related in OTC Medications
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This ruling applies the HSA/FSA account rules (IRC §223, IRS Pub. 969), the medical-care definition they rely on (IRC §213(d), IRS Pub. 502) and any later statutory change or IRS guidance listed above. It is for informational purposes only. Eligibility can vary slightly by plan administrator — when in doubt, confirm with yours before purchasing.