How Fast Can You Be Ready?

31. Or, if you have just a few minutes, blow out only the top and front sections of your hair. Then pull it back into a bun at the nape of your neck. No one will be able to tell that you ignored the bottom layers.

32. Straighten and defrizz your hair as you blow-dry by holding the dryer vertically and keeping the nozzle pointed down. The direction of the air will flatten the cuticle so hair looks smoother and more shiny (with less effort on your part).

33. To boost volume or disguise your roots, zigzag your part or move it to the opposite side.

34. For quick volume, flip your head upside down, spritz your roots with hairspray, lift your head up, and then massage your scalp for a few seconds.

35. Want to get the exact haircolor you want—the first time around? Give your stylist a photograph of the shade you have in mind. Describing it will take a lot longer than showing it, and a small miscommunication can cost you many hours (and dollars) in color correction.

36. Cut down on highlight appointments by finding a stylist who does balayage (painting the hair) instead of using foils. The results are more subtle and natural looking, so you won't need a touch-up for at least three or four months (rather than one or two).

37. Choose a haircolor only two or three shades lighter than your natural one. Anything more dramatic and you'll have noticeable roots in a matter of weeks.

38. If your hair is less than a third gray and you want to cover it, ask your stylist to use a demi-permanent dye. It takes less time to apply, and the color slowly washes out, so there won't be an obvious demarcation as your hair grows.

39. Your face doesn't get dirty while you sleep; splash it with water instead of using a cleanser in the morning (unless you're very oily).

40. Skip toner. You may like how it feels, but it doesn't improve your skin.