Look for local alternatives, head uptown to the flashier shops, and as a last resort, visit the biggest, fanciest tourist hotel you can find in a large city. They may or may not have a small supply of toiletries, cosmetics, sunscreen, tampons, combs and such, all at outrageous prices. Otherwise, just wait until you get to a more modern city. Bringing home trinkets from your far-flung travels is part of the fun of going. They will make interesting gifts and souvenirs of your travels for years to come.
Some travelers buy more than others, and some buy a lot more.
It is a noble sentiment, but for many, it's as difficult as traveling without a camera. The more you travel, the more particular you will become about the kinds of souvenirs you buy. We would like to think that this shows a growing sense of good taste in exotic trinkets. When you first get off the plane, everything looks new and interesting. Nowdays, many of the handicrafts are made specifically for your consumption, and some of them are meant to last at least until you leave town.