Does FSA cover sunscreen?
Sunscreen is FSA-eligible as long as it's SPF 15 or higher and labeled broad-spectrum — lower-SPF products and plain suntan lotion don't qualify.
What flips the answer
- Covered when
The product is SPF 15+ and labeled broad-spectrum.
- Not covered when
The product is SPF under 15, or is suntan lotion or tanning oil without broad-spectrum SPF protection.
SPF 15+ broad-spectrum sunscreen is classified as an over-the-counter drug because it prevents sunburn and reduces skin cancer and premature-aging risk, which is why FSA and HSA administrators treat it as a qualified medical expense without a prescription.
To qualify, a product needs both an SPF of 15 or higher and a "broad spectrum" label, meaning it protects against UVA and UVB rays. Products under SPF 15, or suntan lotion and tanning oil that aren't labeled broad-spectrum, are excluded.
Combination products — moisturizer with SPF, lip balm with SPF — generally qualify too, as long as they meet the same SPF and broad-spectrum threshold and the receipt itemizes the purchase.
That's the general answer. Yours is written in your actual policy.
Drop in your policy or benefits document and get the answer for your exact coverage — with the clause it comes from. Nothing is stored.
Check my policy →