
Thinking about laser skin treatments to improve your look, reduce scars, or treat skin issues? You might be wondering if you can use your Health Savings Account (HSA) to help pay for it.
An HSA is a special savings account for medical expenses, but whether a treatment qualifies depends on if it’s considered medically necessary.
In this blog, we’ll break down if laser skin treatments are HSA-eligible and share details about related procedures like cosmetic and plastic surgeries.
Understanding HSAs and What You Can Use Them For
An HSA (Health Savings Account) is a savings account that gives you tax benefits if you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP).
You can use the money in your HSA to pay for certain medical expenses approved by the IRS. These include treatments or procedures that diagnose, treat, or prevent medical conditions. However, cosmetic procedures usually don’t qualify because they aren’t medically necessary.
To find out what counts as a qualified medical expense, check IRS Publication 502. If a treatment reduces pain, improves your body’s function, or addresses a specific health issue, it will likely qualify for HSA use.
Is Laser Skin Treatment Considered Medical or Cosmetic?
Laser skin treatments can be used for both medical and cosmetic reasons, and whether you can use HSA funds to cover the cost depends on the purpose of the treatment.

When Laser Skin Treatment Might Be HSA-Eligible
You may be able to use your HSA for laser treatments if they address a medical condition. Here are some examples:
- Acne Scars: If severe acne scars are causing emotional or functional issues, treatment could be considered medically necessary.
- Rosacea: Laser therapy for managing this chronic skin condition may qualify.
- Burn Scars: Reducing scar tissue from burns or injuries is often seen as medically justified.
- Warts or Lesions: Removing warts, moles, or other growths for health-related reasons may also be eligible.
In these cases, having a doctor’s recommendation and proper documentation can help confirm the treatment is medically necessary for HSA use.
When Laser Skin Treatment Is Not HSA-Eligible
If the treatment is purely cosmetic, like reducing wrinkles, fine lines, or sunspots to enhance appearance, it won’t qualify. Cosmetic procedures are considered elective and not aimed at treating or preventing a medical condition.
For HSA eligibility, the key factor is whether the procedure serves a medical purpose or is purely for aesthetics.
Can You Use Your HSA for Elective Surgery?
The word “elective” can be confusing when it comes to surgeries. It simply means the procedure is planned in advance and isn’t an emergency, but that doesn’t automatically make it cosmetic.
HSA Coverage for Elective Surgeries
Elective surgeries that address a medical condition are often HSA-eligible. For example:
- Gallbladder Removal: Though scheduled in advance, this surgery treats a medical problem.
- Hernia Repair: Similarly, this procedure is elective but medically necessary.
However, if the surgery is elective and purely cosmetic—like a facelift—it won’t qualify for HSA coverage.
Can You Use Your HSA for Cosmetic Surgery?
In most cases, cosmetic surgeries aren’t covered by HSA funds because they’re meant to improve appearance and don’t treat a medical issue. The IRS defines cosmetic surgery as procedures done purely for looks and not to fix a health problem.
Exceptions to the Rule
Some cosmetic procedures may qualify if they’re medically necessary, such as:
- Reconstructive Surgery: For example, facial reconstruction after an accident.
- Breast Reconstruction: After a mastectomy for breast cancer, this is considered medically necessary.
Can You Use Your HSA for Plastic Surgery?
Plastic surgery can fall into two categories: reconstructive or cosmetic. Whether you can use your HSA depends on the purpose of the surgery.
HSA-Eligible Plastic Surgery
If the surgery is meant to fix a medical issue or restore function, it’s typically HSA-eligible. Examples include:
- Cleft Lip or Palate Repair: Correcting birth defects.
- Skin Grafts: For treating burns.
- Nasal Surgery: Fixing breathing problems, like a deviated septum.

Non-HSA-Eligible Plastic Surgery
If the procedure is purely cosmetic, it won’t qualify. For example:
- Rhinoplasty: If it’s just for appearance, not for medical reasons.
- Liposuction: When done solely for cosmetic purposes.
Can You Use Your HSA for a Breast Lift or Breast Implants?
Breast surgeries can be tricky when it comes to HSA coverage. Here’s how it works:
When It’s Covered
You can use HSA funds for breast surgery if it’s medically necessary, such as:
- After a Mastectomy: Breast implants or lifts after breast cancer surgery are HSA-eligible.
- Breast Reduction for Health Reasons: If the surgery is needed to relieve back pain or other physical discomfort, it may qualify.
When It’s Not Covered
If the procedure is purely cosmetic, like:
- Breast Lifts or Implants for Appearance: Surgeries done just for aesthetic reasons aren’t HSA-eligible.
How to Make the Most of Your HSA for Medical Expenses
If you’re planning a procedure or treatment and want to use your HSA, follow these simple steps:
- Talk to Your Doctor: Make sure you have a clear diagnosis and confirm the treatment is for a medical purpose.
- Get Documentation: If the procedure might be considered borderline, ask your doctor for a letter explaining why it’s medically necessary.
- Save Your Receipts: Keep all receipts and paperwork to prove your expenses, just in case you’re ever audited.
These steps can help you use your HSA confidently and avoid any issues later on.
How to Use Your HSA for Laser Skin Treatments at Beyond The Surface
Using your HSA for laser skin treatments at Beyond The Surface is simple. First, check with your HSA provider to confirm if your laser treatment qualifies as medically necessary (e.g., for acne scarring or sun damage).
During your consultation, our team will provide documentation and a detailed treatment plan. If your treatment is covered, you can pay directly using your HSA card or submit claims for reimbursement.
Keep receipts and medical documentation, as your HSA administrator may require them. Contact our office for guidance, and we’ll ensure a smooth process to help you access your benefits efficiently.

Why Choose Beyond The Surface for Your Laser Skin Treatments?
Choose Beyond The Surface for expert laser skin treatments with the latest technology. Our certified team offers services like acne scar treatment and skin resurfacing, providing personalized care and great results to meet your unique skin needs.
Final Thoughts
Laser skin treatments and other elective procedures might be covered by your HSA, but it all depends on whether the treatment is for a real medical issue. Cosmetic procedures, which are just for appearance, usually aren’t covered.
If you’re not sure whether a specific treatment qualifies for HSA coverage, it’s a good idea to talk to your HSA provider or a tax professional to avoid surprises.
By understanding the rules and having the right paperwork, you can make the most of your HSA while working toward your health and wellness goals.
At Beyond The Surface, located in Edgewater, NJ, our team is here to help guide you through the process and provide the expert care you deserve.
Ready to get started? Book a consultation with us today to explore your options for laser skin treatments and find out if your HSA can be used. Contact Beyond The Surface for more information!
FAQs
It depends on the reason for the treatment. If the laser treatment is considered medically necessary (e.g., to treat a skin condition like rosacea, acne scars, or hyperpigmentation due to a medical condition), you may be able to use your HSA funds. However, treatments done solely for cosmetic purposes typically do not qualify.
You’ll need documentation from your healthcare provider stating that the treatment is medically necessary. Additionally, check with your HSA provider for specific eligibility guidelines and requirements.
No, cosmetic treatments such as laser hair removal or treatments to improve general appearance are not eligible for HSA reimbursement. HSA funds are limited to medical treatments that diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent disease.
Yes, if the prescription is provided by a licensed medical professional and is related to a qualifying medical condition. Be sure to retain a copy of the prescription and receipts.
Yes, many aesthetic clinics offer financing options or payment plans for cosmetic treatments. You may also check with your provider for discounts or promotions.
You can consult your HSA provider or a tax professional for clarification. Additionally, your healthcare provider may provide insights into whether a treatment qualifies as medically necessary.
Get in touch
Feel free to reach out and ask us anything!