Shaving Cream or Lotion: HSA Eligibility

Is shaving cream or lotion eligible for reimbursement?

Shaving cream or lotion is a mainstay in morning routines for both men and women that is applied to the face or wherever hair grows to make the process of shaving easier and reduce the chances of potential nicks and cuts from razors. These products are not eligible for reimbursement with consumer-directed healthcare accounts, as they are considered to be cosmetic products that do not play a role in the treatment or prevention of a legitimate medical condition.

Shaving creams and lotions typically contain a number of the same ingredients that are designed to lubricate the skin to allow for easier shaving, moisturize the skin and hair follicles and emolliating ingredients to soften and soothe the skin long after shaving is completed. Today's most common type of shaving cream in pressurized cans was introduced in 1949 by Carter-Wallace, and this variant continues to be extremely popular in the form of creams and gels for various parts of the body.

The most common active ingredients in commercial shaving creams include some of the following, such as water, stearic acid, potassium hydroxide, myristic acid, coconut acid, glycerin and sodium hydroxide. Additionally, other ingredients such as fragrances, essential oil derivatives and botanicals may also be added to suit varying skin types (Sharpologist.com). However, because these products rarely contain medicated ingredients and are classified as products that are used to promote one's general health and hygiene, they are not eligible for reimbursement with consumer-directed healthcare accounts.