More than a quarter of women treat themselves to a top-to-toe makeover before hitting the beach on holiday, including manis, pedis, facials and fake tans, according to a survey by QVC.
But if you barely have time to even write a pre-holiday to-do list, or your vacation prep is more likely to include a last-minute dash around the beauty aisles in Duty Free, fear not - simply go for a cheat option instead.
These six SOS products will help you feel confident in a flash.
YOU HAVEN'T HAD TIME TO... WORKOUT
THE CHEAT: Nuriss Bingo-Wing Fade-Away Cream, £65 (nuriss.co.uk)
If those good intentions to lift free weights five times a week rapidly went out of the window, there is a Plan B. This cream won't work bingo wing-melting magic overnight, but spend two minutes applying it twice a day in the run-up to your holiday, and your skin should feel taughter. For maximum results, massage into your upper arms in circular upward motions.
YOU HAVEN'T HAD TIME TO... BODY BRUSH
THE CHEAT: Manuka Doctor ApiBronze Anti-Cellulite Bronzing Gel, currently reduced to £14.95 from £24.99 (manukadoctor.co.uk)
Daily dry body brushing really does help diminish cellulite, but it's a ritual that can easily fall by the wayside. Smooth this lightweight gel over your legs for a two-in-one treatment. Pay special attention massaging into bottom and thighs, to help reduce dimpling. The golden glow develops in one hour, so pack it in your suitcase to extend the effects while you're away.
YOU HAVEN'T HAD TIME TO... TAN
THE CHEAT: Fake Bake 5 Minute Mousse, £20 (Boots.com)
Self tan is the instant route to a slimmer silhouette. This genius speed-dry mousse eliminates the need for the overnight biscuit pong wait. Just five minutes is all you need for the tan to develop, meaning you can apply on the morning of your departure flight. Smooth on with a self-tan mitt to avoid tell-tale orange palms.
YOU HAVEN'T HAD TIME TO... WAX
THE CHEAT: Nair Argan Oil Bikini & Underarm Glide-on, £5.10 (Boots stores)
Stray hairs and swimsuits are not a good mix. If you haven't had time to book in for a professional wax, this roll-on formula is a happy hair removal fix. For a mess-free finish, twist up the no-touch applicator, smooth on and rinse off for fuzz-free skin that lasts for up to seven days.
YOU HAVEN'T HAD TIME TO... PEDI
THE CHEAT: Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi Electronic Foot File, currently reduced to £29.99 from £39.99 (Boots.com)
If you've found time to shop for new sandals, fancy feet are a must. For the next best thing to a date with a beauty therapist, see off sandpaper soles with this nifty DIY tool. Smooth the rotating roller over hard skin for baby soft tootsies in five minutes flat. There's even a tool for extra course skin, if more groundwork is required.
YOU HAVEN'T HAD TIME TO... POLISH
THE CHEAT: Barry M Sunset Daylight Curing Nail Paint & Topcoat, £4.99 each (barrym.com)
Never make the mistake of painting your fingernails right before you pack. If you're really pushed for time, prep talons at home and then paint with this Barry M formula, which comes in eight shades, from the comfort of your hotel balcony. To achieve a gel-like finish, the polish and two-step top coat cures in natural daylight, for super-glossy nails that'll be chip-free for up to 10 days.
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