PROBLEM: An up-do that falls down

SOLUTION: Don't rely on hairpins to keep your updo intact, says hairstylist Michael Shaun Corby, who has finessed the tresses of Lindsay Lohan, Jennifer Aniston and Paris Hilton. Instead, start with a ponytail that's secured with double elastic bands, and then twist that into a French knot, a loopy bun or a sleek chignon. Finish with a light holding product. "Your upstyle will be so durable," Corby says, "you'll practically be able to go surfing and not have to worry."

PROBLEM: Hair that looks greasy

SOLUTION: Mix a finishing cocktail by combining equal parts of a silicone product with a pomade, suggests Hollywood hair guru Peter Ishkhans, whose client roster includes Eva Mendes and Jessica Biel. Rub the two products between your palms until just a film remains. Then work your fingers from the nape of your neck up through your hair. "Remember the first place where your put your hands is where you'll have the most product," Ishkhans says, "and an excess in the front will ruin everything." Cold Case's Kathryn Morris doesn't have to worry about lipstick that doesn't last.

PROBLEM: Wilting makeup

SOLUTION: First, create a barrier against sweat and humidity by prepping skin with a light moisturizer and daytime eye cream, followed by a gel foundation primer. Allow the products 10 minutes to absorb before applying color make-up. Skip heavy formulations, and instead build coverage with sheer products. As a last step, set makeup with a sweep of translucent loose powder.

PROBLEM: Lipstick that doesn't last

SOLUTION: Want lips like Cold Case's Kathryn Morris? Layering is the key to lipstick that doesn't disappear with the first sip of a cocktail, says Robert Bolanos, a Beverly Hills makeup artist whose clients include Jessica Alba and Queen Latifah. Prep your lips with a thin layer of concealer, then fill in the center with a neutral liner. Next, apply your lipstick with a lip brush, top with gloss and outline your entire mouth with the liner. Then, apply a dusting of translucent powder and apply another coat of gloss.

PROBLEM: Limp lashes

SOLUTION: You could fatten your fringe with false eyelashes made of mink. Or plump up your own lashes with a coat of primer. Bolanos likes L'Oreal's Double-Extend Lash Fortifier. This two-step volume-booster combines a base coat that thickens each lash with tiny fibers and a non-clumping mascara.

PROBLEM: A giant day-of zit

SOLUTION: Don't pop impulsively or you'll end up with a red blotch, says Ole Henriksen, whose Hollywood spa draws such Renee Zellweger. If it's an under-the-skin crater, wrap an ice cube in a handkerchief and roll over it. Use a warm compress on gunk-filled zits, pressing light. Then, apply astringent.