Yes, lice treatment is eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Is Lice Treatment FSA/HSA Eligible?
Lice treatment products are used to diagnose and treat an active lice infestation, which is a medical condition recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and covered under IRS Code Section 213(d). Because lice treatments are designed to eliminate a medical condition rather than for general hygiene or cosmetic purposes, they qualify as eligible medical expenses.
Under the CARES Act of 2020, over-the-counter (OTC) lice treatment products are eligible without a prescription. These include a wide range of topical products and kits, such as:
Permethrin-based treatments (e.g., Nix®)
Pyrethrin-based shampoos and creams (e.g., Rid®)
Lice removal combs (when sold as part of a treatment kit)
Prescription-strength treatments (e.g., Sklice®, Natroba®)
These products are specifically formulated to kill lice and nits and are considered direct treatment for a diagnosable condition.
What’s Not Covered?
General-use shampoos, conditioners, or hair care products that claim to “repel” lice but are not formulated or labeled to treat an active infestation are not considered eligible. Additionally, accessories such as standalone combs, sprays, or essential oils marketed for prevention without an approved active ingredient may not qualify unless part of a complete treatment kit.
If a lice treatment product includes cosmetic or non-medical items bundled together, only the medically necessary portion of the purchase may be eligible.
How to Buy Lice Treatment with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase lice treatment products directly at buyFSA.com using your FSA or HSA card. Every item listed on buyFSA.com is FSA- and HSA-eligible, so there’s no guesswork or reimbursement hassle.
If purchasing elsewhere:
Use your FSA or HSA card at checkout (in-store or online)
Look for products labeled “FSA/HSA eligible”
Choose treatments that are specifically intended to eliminate lice, not just to prevent or deter them
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requires documentation
