Shopping for beauty products can be fun, but it can also add up fast. No matter how good they make you feel (or look), no one looks forward to seeing the credit card bill post an Ulta or Sephora trip. However, you can save on your beauty routine by using your FSA (flexible spending account) and HSA (health savings account) on beauty products that are eligible.
Enrolling in either of these programs allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars for certain medical expenses and conditions, like over-the-counter medications and even skin-care products [1]. To help you make the most of your FSA or HSA benefits and shop strategically, we enlisted the help of board certified dermatologist Nithin Reddy [2], MD, to break down the benefits, what types of products qualify and why, and how to optimize your shopping list. We also included some of the best FSA- and HSA-eligible skin-care products you can stock up on with your funds, including a few of our editor-backed picks.
The Best FSA- and HSA-Eligible Beauty Products to Shop Now
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible healing ointment: [2] Aquaphor Healing Ointment Skin Protectant Advanced Therapy Moisturizer [3] at $13, originally $14
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible pimple patches: [3] Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Variety Pack [4] at $14
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible eczema cream: [4] La Roche-Posay Lipikar Soothing Relief Eczema Cream [5] at $17
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible sunscreen: [5] Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36 [6] at $18
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible face wash: [6] CeraVe SA Face Wash Cleanser [7] at $19
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible moisturizer: [7] Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence [8] at $19, originally $25
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible acne treatment gel: [8] Differin Acne Treatment Gel [9] at $24, originally $37
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible tinted sunscreen: [9] Innbeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 43 PA +++ [10] at $36
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible acne treatment mask: [10] Peter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask [11] at $53
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible red light therapy mask: [11] Solawave Neck & Chest Pro Light Therapy Mask [12] at $349
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible facial toning device: [12] NuFace Trinity+ Starter Kit [13] at $395
- Best FSA- and HSA-eligible LED face mask: [13] Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro [14] at $455
What Is the Difference Between an FSA and an HSA?
In order to fully take advantage of these benefits, it is helpful to understand what exactly FSA and HSA accounts are and the differences between them. Both FSA and HSA benefits let you set aside pre-tax money to spend on healthcare costs, but there's an annual contribution limit for an FSA that you can specify during your enrollment period, according to Dr. Reddy. He points out that employers usually offer FSAs, and HSAs are contingent on enrolling in a high-deductible health plan.
"One of the main advantages of an HSA is that it is portable, staying with the account holder through job transitions," Dr. Reddy says. "Other HSA advantages include higher contribution limits, rollovers, investment opportunities, and flexible withdrawals. It is crucial to thoroughly review the terms and conditions, contribution limits, and qualified expenses with both types of accounts to determine their suitability for your needs."
How Can Beauty Products Qualify For the Tax-Free Benefit?
Dr. Reddy says that while beauty products alone may not qualify as FSA/HSA eligible, those containing ingredients proven to treat medical conditions — like acne, eczema, or in the prevention of skin cancer can be eligible for FSA/HSA coverage. "For instance, over-the-counter retinol, a well-known antiaging ingredient in many beauty products, is in many acne treatments [15], making it eligible for FSA/HSA funds," Dr. Reddy says. "Similarly, blemish correctors that contain salicylic acid, another effective ingredient for treating acne, often qualify as FSA/HSA eligible."
Along with acne treatments, sunscreen [16] is eligible, since it helps prevent skin cancer. He also notes that some moisturizers can qualify for the benefit if they help with eczema management. "If there is any doubt about a specific product's eligibility, it is always advisable to first consult with your account administrator," he says.
How We Test the Best FSA- and HSA-Eligible Beauty Products
We test [17] a ton of products, so when we say something is worth your FSA or HSA dollars, we mean it.
- We verify eligibility – Every product featured has been checked against FSA and HSA guidelines to confirm it qualifies for reimbursement, typically through a trusted retailer like the FSA Store or a brand's official documentation.
- We try them ourselves – Our team of editors personally tests each product to evaluate texture, scent, ease of application, and overall experience.
- We speak to dermatologists and experts – For items like acne treatments, sunscreens, or medicated skin care, we consult board-certified dermatologists to understand the ingredients and what makes them effective.
- We consider user reviews – We analyze hundreds of verified reviews to see what real users are saying about results, potential side effects, and long-term benefits.
- We test across skin types – From sensitive and acne-prone to oily and dry, we ensure that products are evaluated across a range of skin types and tones when possible.
- We assess value – Eligible or not, a product needs to be worth your money. We factor in price, product size, and performance to determine if it's a smart FSA/HSA spend.
How Can Consumers Take Advantage of Their FSA/HSA Benefits For Beauty Products?
"Any products labeled as FSA/HSA eligible can be purchased using your FSA or HSA account, providing a convenient way to manage your healthcare expenses by offering tax savings," he says. Sites like Sephora [18], CVS [19], and Amazon [20] have specific sections you can shop from that filter the products that are eligible for the benefit. "I recommend carefully assessing your skin-care routine to identify which products may qualify for coverage. Consulting with your local dermatologist can help you develop a tailored skin-care routine that caters to your specific skin conditions," Dr. Reddy says.
He recommends swapping products that aren't covered by the benefit with FSA/HSA-eligible items but warns not to overspend on non-essential items if you can help it.
Ahead, we rounded up the best beauty products you can get using your FSA or HSA benefits.
Expert Featured in This Article
Nithin Reddy [21] is an NYC-based board certified dermatologist.
Update on January 23, 2026 at 11:00 AM ET: Updated prices and checked stock for all products.
User reviews may have been lightly edited for clarity.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment Skin Protectant Advanced Therapy Moisturizer [22] ($13, originally $14)
If you're constantly restocking on Aquaphor's Healing Ointment for all your dry skin woes, you can get it with your FSA and HSA funds. The healing ointment is not only a skin-slugging [23] must have, but it's actually beneficial in healing cuts, burns, and even irritated skin. You can use this anywhere on your body for a myriad of reasons for smoother, softer skin. The squeeze tube packaging is travel-friendly, but you can also get the larger tub container [24] for at-home use.
- Pros: Multi-use, dermatologist recommended, deeply hydrating, approved for FSA/HSA use
- Cons: Thick texture can feel greasy, not ideal under makeup
- Type: Ointment
- Finish: Dewy
- Who it's best for: Those with dry, cracked, or sensitive skin, anyone into slugging
- Extras: Fragrance-free, safe for kids
What Reviewers Say: "This is a good item to have in your first aid kit at home. We use it for dry skin, and for minor scrapes."
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Variety Pack [25] ($14)
You can stock up on acne patches with your FSA and HSA funds too, since hydrocolloid patches help manage and treat breakouts. These patches from Hero Cosmetics are ultra-thin, so you can wear them out and about while making sure your pimples are protected. This variety pack comes with 26 patches, including 12 original patches, 12 invisible patches, and two patches for cluster breakouts. Read more in our Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patches review [26].
- Pros: Blends seamlessly into skin, visibly reduce pimples overnight, great variety of shapes
- Cons: Not ideal for cystic or deep under-the-skin breakouts
- Type: Hydrocolloid acne patch
- Finish: Matte, invisible version has a sheer, skin-like finish
- Who it's best for: Anyone with whiteheads or surface-level acne who wants a low effort fix
- Extras: Dermatologist-tested, drug-free, safe for all skin types
Editor Quote: "From its unmatched staying power to the undeniable results, I can say that the Hero Cosmetics Mighty Acne Patch truly lives up to the hype. Thanks to its gel formula, the patch gently clings to the skin for hours while effortlessly absorbing all of the gunk in the pimple." - Naomi Parris, assistant shopping editor
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Soothing Relief Eczema Cream [27] ($17)
Dr. Reddy also recommends La Roche-Posay's Lipikar Soothing Relief Eczema Cream since it's packed with ingredients like colloidal oatmeal that help restore the skin barrier and relieve inflammation and irritation. It can be used on the face and body throughout the day on affected areas. In fact, it's accepted by the National Eczema Association.
- Pros: Clinically tested, accepted by the National Eczema Association, gentle enough for daily use on face and body
- Cons: Slightly thicker texture may take a minute to absorb
- Type: Cream
- Finish: Soft, hydrated finish
- Who it's best for: Those with eczema-prone, sensitive, or very dry skin
- Extras: Fragrance-free, formulated with colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, and La Roche Posay's thermal spring water
What Reviewers Say: "1000/10! Cannot recommend this product enough! I have sensitive skin and eczema, and this product works like a charm."
Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36 [28] ($18)
If you're looking for an affordable, everyday sunscreen that feels like nothing on the skin, meet the Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen. It contains skin-calming ingredients like green tea, cica, and sunflower seed oil, which makes this chemical sunscreen perfect for all skin types. It's an editor-backed pick for good reason. Read our Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Sunscreen review [29] for more.
- Pros: Lightweight, hydrating, doesn't leave a white cast, layers well under makeup
- Cons: Lower SPF than some may prefer (SPF 36)
- Type: Chemical sunscreen
- Finish: Natural, dewy
- Who it's best for: All skin types, especially sensitive or redness-prone skin
- Extras: Infused with green tea, cica, and sunflower seed oil, reef-friendly formula
Editor Quote: "It's smooth and creamy, kind of like a balmy moisturizer, but it still feels so refreshing and lightweight on the skin that I often forget I have SPF on." - Anvita Reddy, former assistant shopping editor
Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence [30] ($19, originally $25)
In case you're a fan of K-beauty products, you'll want to keep this moisturizer from Cosrx on hand. Admittedly, the idea of using a snail-infused product raises eyebrows, but this essence lives up to the hype it's been getting on TikTok. Apart from snail secretion filtrate, it's formulated with allantoin and hyaluronic acid which are known to hydrate and repair the skin. One of our editors is obsessed, which she discusses in her Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence review [31].
- Pros: Hydrating, makes the skin smoother, best results if used overnight
- Cons: Has a sticky texture so it might be best to do a patch test
- Type: Moisturizer
- Finish: Brighter tone, dewy
- Who it's best for: Anyone who struggles with dry skin and uneven tone
- Extras: Dermatologist-tested
Editor Quote: "It's been months since I started using the essence daily. I use it after cleansing and before applying moisturizer, and I am a complete convert. Though I was worried the additional skin-care step would clog my pores over time, leading to pimples and what have you, my skin's texture has actually improved, and it feels way more even now. The hydration payoff is also huge, and I feel like it actually helps my moisturizer work better, too. For a while, I had been feeling as though the cream would just sit atop my skin after application, and now I feel like it's actually penetrating through and sinking in. Best of all, I finally feel close to glazed doughnut status." — Kelsey Garcia, lifestyle director
CeraVe SA Face Wash Cleanser [32] ($19)
This one is a classic, editor-backed pick. The CeraVe SA Face Wash Cleanser contains acne-fighting salicylic acid, making it an FSA- and HSA-eligible face wash that can help treat existing breakouts and prevent future ones from forming. It's also got hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to help balance out your skin and keep it hydrated. This is ideal for those with normal to oily skin types, but is also safe for sensitive skin.
- Pros: Gently exfoliates without stripping skin, fragrance-free, effective for acne and texture
- Cons: May be too drying for very dry skin types
- Type: Gel cleanser
- Finish: Clean, non-tight
- Who it's best for: Normal to oily or acne-prone skin types, anyone dealing with texture or clogged pores
- Extras: Contains salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, developed with dermatologists
What Reviewers Say: "Love this cleanser! It's very effective and is very easy to put on."
Differin Acne Treatment Gel [33] ($24, originally $37)
"Retinoids not only treat acne but are also shown to have multiple antiaging benefits," Dr. Reddy says, and his over-the-counter choice is the Differin Acne Treatment Gel. The 0.1 percent adapalene treatment helps treat acne and is more tolerable than other prescription retinoids like tretinoin. It's best to use this treatment in your nighttime routine with a sunscreen in the morning. Read more in our Differin Acne Treatment Gel review [34].
- Pros: FDA-approved retinoid, effective at treating and preventing acne, also helps with fine lines and skin texture
- Cons: Can cause dryness or irritation during the first few weeks of use, requires consistent sunscreen use
- Type: Topical retinoid treatment (adapalene 0.1%)
- Finish: Lightweight gel
- Who it's best for: Acne-prone skin, beginners looking to start a retinoid routine with something gentle but effective
- Extras: Available over the counter and FSA/HSA eligible
Editor Quote: "I gladly buy myself a refill of this Differin Gel every time I'm running low, which happens about every month and a half." – Jessica Harrington, beauty section lead
Innbeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 43 PA +++ [35] ($36)
If you're looking for an everyday mineral sunscreen that doesn't leave a white cast, meet the Innbeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow Broad Spectrum Sunscreen. It comes in two flexible shades — one compatible with lighter skin tones and one compatible with darker skin tones. It's formulated with 14.2 percent non-nano zinc oxide, and contains vitamin C and rice extract for added antioxidant protection. It's great for all skin types, and feels weightless and hydrating on the skin. It's an editor-backed pick for good reason. Read our Innbeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow Broad Spectrum Sunscreen review [36] for more.
- Pros: No white cast, tinted for flexible tone matching, mineral SPF with added antioxidants
- Cons: Limited shade range
- Type: Mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide-based)
- Finish: Natural, slightly glowy
- Shades: Three
- Who it's best for: Anyone looking for tinted mineral SPF that blends well and feels weightless
- Extras: Infused with vitamin C, peptides, and rice extract, reef-safe, suitable for sensitive skin
Editor Quote: "Rather than a pasty white cast, I'm left with radiant, glowy skin and subtle coverage that helps give my skin a more even-toned appearance. As someone who deals with dark spots and hyperpigmentation, this was a huge plus for me. Beyond the flexible shades, this is one of the most elegant mineral sunscreens I've ever tried (and I've tested a lot). It's lightweight with a silky cream texture that seamlessly blends into the skin." - Anvita Reddy, former assistant shopping editor
Peter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask [37] ($53)
This acne treatment mask from Peter Thomas Roth contains 10 percent sulfur, which can helps diminish existing breakouts, making it FSA- and HSA-eligible. It also has kaolin clay and bentonite clay that soak up excess oil while aloe vera soothes the skin. Apply this to the affected areas and leave it on for five to 10 minutes. You can use this mask treatment two to three times per week.
- Pros: Potent 10 percent sulfur concentration, oil absorbing clay blend, soothing with aloe vera
- Cons: Strong sulfur scent, may be too drying for sensitive or dry skin types
- Type: Acne treatment mask
- Finish: Matte, oil-free
- Who it's best for: Oily or acne-prone skin, those dealing with frequent breakouts or clogged pores
- Extras: Dermatologist-recommended ingredients
What Reviewers Say: "This product is a go-to for my sensitive, dry, acne-prone skin. I've used it for a few years now, and nothing else compares."
Solawave Neck & Chest Pro Light Therapy Mask [38] ($349)
Solawave's already-viral neck & chest therapy mask features multiple LEDs created to deliver consistent light energy across the neck and chest, while promoting a brighter tone, skin elasticity, and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. All you have to do is use it three to five times a week for three minutes. It's also made from soft, ergonomic silicone and comes with adjustable straps for comfortable wear.
- Pros: FDA-cleared, results seen within eight weeks
- Cons: High price point, may be sensitive for melanated skin types
- Type: Red light therapy mask
- Who it's best for: Anyone looking to conquer wrinkles
- Extras: An award-winning product
What Reviewers Say: "Much less pigmentation on my chest. Skin is so much softer."
NuFace Trinity+ Starter Kit [39] ($395)
This facial toning device from NuFace is a top-rated FDA-approved mask, and for good reason. It uses microcurrent technology and low-level electrical currents to target facial muscles. Of course, TikTok and Instagram influencers alike have proclaimed the device's miracle-working powers that lift their faces real time, which one editor puts to the test in our NuFace Trinity Facial Toning Device review [40].
- Pros: FDA-cleared, clinically backed tech for both acne and aging, quick daily treatment
- Cons: High price point, needs everyday use for long-lasting results
- Type: Facial toning device
- Finish: improved skin firmness
- Who it's best for: Anyone looking for an at-home spa alternative to advance their skin texture
- Extras: An award-winning product
Editor Quote: "While the results were not as dramatic as the transformations I saw on Instagram, I was completely blown away the first time I used it. My face looked lifted and sculpted, and each time I've used it since then, I've seen similar results." — Ariel Baker, former associate beauty editor
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro [41] ($455)
The Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro is one of the only FDA-cleared LED face masks with both antiaging and acne benefits, making it a splurge item that you can get with your FSA and HSA funds. The editor-backed LED mask has 100 red lights that help stimulate the production of collagen over time and 62 blue lights to target acne-causing bacteria. For more information, check out our in-depth Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro review [42].
- Pros: FDA-cleared, clinically backed tech for both acne and aging, quick daily treatment
- Cons: High price point, needs consistent use for results
- Type: LED light therapy mask
- Finish: Long-term: improved skin tone, texture, and clarity
- Who it's best for: Anyone looking for a non-invasive treatment to target acne, fine lines, or both
- Extras: Three light settings (red, blue, combo), rechargeable, automatically shuts off after three minutes
Editor Quote: "I like to use the LED mask as part of my nighttime skin-care routine after cleansing. I put it on, then occupy myself for three minutes while the lights do their thing . . . If I feel a breakout coming on, I use the blue light; if my skin feels pretty balanced, I'll use the red and blue; if I'm already having a great skin day, I'll do the red." — Jessica Harrington, beauty section lead
What to Look Forward to
We're looking at a number of new options for our next update. These include: the La Roche Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil [43] as a great alternative to makeup wipes and the Dermaflash Luxe+ Advanced Sonic Dermaplaning and Peach Fuzz Removal [44] for a splurge-worthy dermaplaning option.
— Additional reporting by Balim Tezel and Naomi Parris
Anvita Reddy [45] (she/her) is a former assistant editor for PS Shopping. She has a passion for products and reviews home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. At PS, she tested skin care, makeup, and hair care, plus countless other beauty products.
Balim Tezel [46] (she/her) is a former shopping updates editor at PS and the founder of Maison des Nus, a New York-based affordable luxury brand blending streetwear and elevated essentials, with a playful edge. She graduated from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism in 2019, and now lives in Flatiron.
Naomi Parris [47] is the assistant shopping editor at Popsugar, based in New York. With over eight years of experience and previous roles held on the brand's Beauty and Operations teams, she enjoys telling stories that merge fashion, beauty, and Black culture. Naomi has also lent her skillful pen to Essence Girls United, Elle, Bustle, and Elite Daily. When she's not crafting shopping roundups, high-profile features, beauty op-eds, or trend guides, you can find Naomi behind her blog "Eli-Nay," where she inspires readers through style guides, cultural pieces, and innovative content on her Instagram.