For an instant refresh, try these quick beauty fixes

The Kit’s Katherine Lalancette suggests the top time-saving Toronto beauty services that maximize quality, too

The next-gen gel mani

All of the gel pros with none of the cons. CND’s new Shellac Luxe is applied in two simple steps (as opposed to the classic three), dries almost instantly and stays put for two weeks. The best part? Whereas most hard polishes take about 15 minutes to remove, this one lifts in 60 seconds without damaging nails, thus totally eliminating our biggest gel grievance. Try it out for yourself at one of Tips Nail Bar’s two locations. CND Shellac Luxe manicure, $56, tipsnailbar.ca

The in-and-out blowout

Blow-dry bars have been around for a while (and how we ever survived before, we’ll never know), but Vent goes the extra mile. There are complimentary head massages, phone-charging stations at every chair, a fully appointed bar and early morning appointments so you can swing by before that big morning meeting. Book online for optimal convenience and sign up for a membership to cut costs and score a free blowout on your birthday. Vent blow dry bar blowout, $50, ventblowdrybar.com

The done-in-minutes wax

Hair removal is no fun for anyone, so it should at the very least be quick. Such is the philosophy at Fuzz Wax Bar. The multi-salon chain focuses on one thing and one thing only: waxing. Its “Fuzzologists” are trained to make the process as fast and efficient as possible, using hard wax to minimize the ouch factor (and nix paper waste). Bonus: Fuzz also offers money-saving memberships tailored to your grooming preferences.

Fuzz Wax Bar wax services, price varies depending on area, fuzzwaxbar.com

The ultra-fast facial

Radiant skin in half an hour? That’ll be a yes for us. Blitz Facial Bar Blitz + Glow treatment combines a deep cleanse, targeted solutions and a sheet mask to give your complexion a pick-me-up you can see. Oh, and you also get a hand/arm or scalp massage while your mask does its thing, leaving you blissfully relaxed. Crave more? Add a booster to your service (options include jade rolling, brightening extras and more) for a custom treat. Blitz facial bar blitz + glow facial, $48 blitzfacialbar.com