PUTTING TECH TO THE TEST
Finding work-life balance is always tricky, but thanks to a rise in concierge-style beauty apps serving San Francisco, squeezing in manicures and blowouts between meetings just got easier. By connecting freelance hair, makeup and nail artists with clients who need a touch-up (stat!), new companies like Manicube and StyleBee are delivering vetted beauty professionals straight to your door — at your home, office or even hotel. We put a handful of on-demand beauty services to the test, to see how getting glam on-the-clock really works.
MANICUBE
Offers: 15-25 minute in-office manicures.
Cost: $15-$25.
How to book: Ask your company to invite Manicube to the office, then make appointments and pay via the app or online.
Put to the test: Out of 60 polishes from brands like Essie, OPI and Zoya, we chose a “high-maintenance mani” using long-wear CND Vinylux. Our digits stayed polished longer than our wildest dreams.
Workability: High. Although our conference room takeover raised eyebrows, we like that Manicube takes a cue from the finance industry’s on-site barbers and gets company execs on board before setting up shop.
Pros: Workplace-friendly, competitively priced.
Cons: Currently only available to groups.
STYLEBEE
Offers: Blowouts, up-dos, makeup, massage.
Cost: $50-$160.
How to book: Create a profile and schedule via the app at least two hours in advance.
Put to the test: We came into work with freshly washed, still-wet hair and requested a glamorous blowout.
Workability: Medium. Our stylist was discreet, efficient and oh so talented. Although a noisy blow dryer at work won’t be daily practice, this makes major sense for special occasions — if you have a private area to get coiffed, that is.
Pros: Excellent customer service, speedy blow-dry, great results.
Cons: You’ll get addicted.
HILOVELY
Offers: Blowouts, up-dos, makeup, lash extensions — the company is an offshoot of Lashfully.
Cost: $48-$150.
How to book: Browse services and book via the app or website.
Put to the test: We scheduled a makeup application and requested an “editorial” look with a golden smoky eye and red lips.
Workability: Medium. Our artist brought a makeup chair and plenty of products, but took a bit longer than scheduled.
Pros: Best for a polished, natural look on a high-profile day.
Cons: Although the description says that makeup appointments include a temporary lash application, we were disappointed to discover this is actually a separate service.
VENSETTE
Offers: Blowouts, up-dos and makeup in less than 45 minutes.
Cost: $100-$300.
How to book: Browse inspiration photos, then book via the app or website.
What we got: A retro-inspired “Siren” blowout.
Workability: Medium. Our stylist was professional and came prepared to style our chosen do.
Pros: The user experience is elevated by gorgeous inspiration photos. According to our stylist, Vensette also offers manicures, not listed on the menu.
Cons: The high price makes this more of an occasional luxury.
*Services provided at a discount for review purposes.