Copyright (c) 2010 John HowellCosmetics can be expensive. It seems the department stores know just how to get a woman addicted to their product before hitting her with a budget-wrecking bill.And once you're hooked, it's tough to deny yourself the next time around. Ladies, take heart. There are ways to save money on makeup products while still feeling like a million bucks. But you have to know where to look.Here are just a few ideas for how to find affordable makeup products.Drug stores - Your local pharmacy or drug store can be a great resource for saving bucks when it comes to makeup products.The trick is to shop the department store brands first and get an idea for colors and types of products you're interested in. Then hit up the drug store or your favorite discount retailer to seek out similar looks. This takes a little legwork, but you can typically save at least $10 per item.Online - The internet is a great resource for finding affordable makeup products. You can find discount retailers or even buy from your favorite discount store and have the product shipped straight to your door.A great way to find items you like is to look for online retailers who will let you sample a free version of their makeup products before you commit to buying an entire makeup collection. One popular online makeup retailer also includes as many as five free sample items with each and every order!While it might seem more expensive to buy makeup this way because of shipping, consider how much time and gas money you'll save yourself.Swap meet - A recent trend in online makeup websites is to join up like-minded women to swap makeup products. These sites operate like a message board or forum and women from all backgrounds meet to swap never-opened or gently used makeup products.Didn't like a new eye shadow you tried? Bought too much of one item on your last buying spree? Swap these products out for something new to try with another person on the site.The upside to this is that it will only cost you shipping. The downside is that you might receive something that wasn't what you thought it would be. But hey, it was free, right?If you try this route, just be sure and swap with someone you've gotten to know a little beforehand.