In December our days are busy with the holiday season, but don’t forget that December is usually the last month of the year to deplete your Medical FLEX plan with qualifying medical expenses. This includes some over the counter skin care products like sunscreens. Check with your plan administrator to see which of your 2009 skin care product purchases qualify.

As a dermatologist, my patients seeking FLEX plan reimbursement for their skin care products typically ask me for a letter documenting their medical diagnosis and stating that their products are needed to treat this active medical condition.

It’s my understanding that skin care products in general do not qualify as medical expenses when they’re used for routine hygiene.  Surprisingly, they also don’t qualify if they’re used for prevention of a medical condition (sunscreen may be the exception here, ask your plan administrator).  To qualify for FLEX reimbursement, your medicated products must be used to treat, not prevent an active medical condition. For example, I’ve seen some plans cover my OTB SKIN medicated acne products when used by patients or their dependents  to treat active acne.  Also, over the counter products to treat psoriasis may be covered.

Of course your plan and medical needs are unique. Find out if you or your family members have qualifying medical conditions and expenses by talking to your plan administrator, tax specialist and your doctor. Ask them if  your skin care product purchases qualify as medical expenses and find out what documentation you need for your records. Remember, just because the treatment makes sense doesn’t mean the IRS thinks the expense qualifies.