Why does it seem like skin care products are so expensive? What I find so interesting is that the prices range from just a few dollars for certain items available at your local discount retailer to hundreds at department stores and medical facilities.

It has often been said that quality has its price and your precious skin is not something you want to skimp on. So how do you get the very best products to meet your specific needs while spending the least amount possible?

First of all, you should realize that getting the care your skin needs is an investment in you - your health, your appearance and your self-confidence. But that is not to say you should spend huge amounts of money needlessly. By finding quality products that do exactly what you need them to do - no more and no less - you'll be getting the best deal possible.

Alternatively, if you just purchase a skincare cream because it's cheap, you're just wasting money if it doesn't meet your needs. In fact, you might as well not use anything in that instance. It's similar to buying a dress that's on sale at an unbelievable price and then letting it sit in your closet for years. Eventually you just toss it out or donate it to charity. It may have been a good deal for someone else, but it wasn't for you.

Once you find the skin care product you need and want, then it's time to search for the best deal. There are a number of places online that offer the exact same products you'll find in a department store but at a fraction of the price. Many of them offer free shipping and even send samples along with your order. You won't miss out on anything except the crowds at the mall by ordering skincare treatments this way.

Aside from bargain shopping, there are other ways to save on skin care needs. Here are just a few to consider:

- Don't feel like you need to buy the latest and greatest. Products that have been around for awhile can still work well for you - that's why they're still around. Avoid getting caught up in the hype that always surrounds the introduction of a new wrinkle cream or firming serum. Stick to the basics.

- Protect your skin from further damage and aging by avoiding overexposure to the sun. When you're out, be sure to apply a quality sunscreen to all exposed areas.

- If you smoke, quit. If you live with or spend a lot of time with smokers, encourage them to quit or limit your time around them while they are smoking. Cigarette smoke can cause damage to both your skin and your health, even if it is second-hand.

- Drink plenty of water and cut down on caffeine and alcohol. You've heard it before - adequate water consumption keeps you hydrated and helps all systems in your body to function properly. If you're not taking care of yourself, expect that to be reflected in your skin regardless of the products you use.

- Get your beauty sleep. If you don't believe rest has an impact on you skin, just go look in the mirror after a too-short night.

- Keep stress in check. Both your health and skin suffer when stress is a common occurrence in your life. Take the necessary steps to minimize it as much as possible.

By taking care of yourself, accurately assessing your skin care needs and shopping around at online stores for the best deals and perks, you'll be able to cut down on your skin care product expenses and still make that all-important investment in yourself.