While it’s true that real beauty is on the inside, the fact is, most women want to look their best on the outside too. But to stay gorgeous and glowing from head to toe you need hair care, skin care, make-up, body treatments and more. Beauty products can add up to a big expense that can easily blow your budget. With these tips and tricks, you won’t have to spend a fortune to look like a million.

• Shop the sales. Be sure to check Flyerland.ca for weekly flyers from London Drugs, PharmaPlus and Rexall and stock up on your preferred products when they’re on sale. Or try a different brand when there’s a bargain—you may discover a new favourite.

• Play the points programs. Be sure to register for the loyalty programs at your regular stores such as Shoppers Drug Mart. With everyday purchases you can accumulate points and save on more expensive products.

• Get your gift with purchase. Buy your more costly beauty items during bonus time to qualify for a free gift from Sears and The Bay with Lancôme, Clinique and many other favourites. Gift with purchase offers let you sample new products. You can keep the ones you like best and trade with friends.

• Save dollars on scents. Perfume sample packages are a great way to try fresh fragrances without spending big bucks. They’re the perfect size for travelling or you can give them as gifts.

• Take expert advice. Magazines often have features comparing brands and uncovering the best kept secrets in beauty buys. Bargain brands can be as good as pricey products so give them a try—you may be pleasantly surprised.

• Host a home spa day/Avon party. If you can’t get out to the spa, bring the spa home! Invite a few friends over and ask them to bring the products they love best so everyone can share. Or, why not host an Avon party and learn the latest trends and make-up tips from an expert in the comfort of your own home. Healthy snacks, beverages and great conversation make the day complete.

• Plan a product swap. We’ve all bought beauty products that haven’t been the best choice for us. If you have some barely used items cluttering up your bathroom cupboard, clear them out and plan a swap party with friends. Just be sure the products have not expired.

• Try tools of the trade. Compare prices on the hottest tools you use every day—hair dryers, curling irons, flatirons, hot rollers and more from Walmart or Zellers. It may be time to replace the old one, but it’s also good to have a backup so buy a spare when you find a sale.

• Check out dollar store deals. Every day you use items for makeup application and removal such cotton balls, swabs, pads and wipes. Buy these items at dollar stores for big savings.

• Get organized! Check out stores like Solutions for baskets and boxes that will help you organize your beauty supplies to keep products and tools at your fingertips. They make attractive decorations too.