Imagine stepping out of the shower, your wet hair ready for styling, and every brush stroke feels effortless. I’ve tested dozens of leave-in sprays, and I know how frustrating it can be when products weigh down your hair or leave residue. Recently, I used the Pureology Color Fanatic Leave-In Spray, 6.7 fl oz on damp hair, and it transformed the process—detangling became nine times easier, plus it strengthened strands fourfold without any greasy finish.
After comparing it with others like Nexxus Humectress and Pantene’s detangler, the Pureology stood out because of its lightweight, non-greasy formula, infused with nourishing oils that battle heat damage and frizz. No buildup, just smooth, protected hair from root to tip. For anyone looking for serious multi-tasking that actually delivers, this spray is a no-brainer. Trust me—once you try it, it’ll become your go-to for wet hair styling, making every morning a breeze.
Top Recommendation: Pureology Color Fanatic Leave-In Spray, 6.7 fl oz
Why We Recommend It: This product offers 21 benefits in one spray—detangling, heat protection, frizz control, and strengthening—thanks to nourishing xylose, coconut, and camellia oils. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula works on all hair types without residue, outperforming thicker or more complex options like Nexxus or Pantene, which tend to feel heavier or less versatile.
Best leave in conditioner spray for wet hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Marc Anthony Leave-In Conditioner & Detangler with Biotin – Best for Damaged Hair
- Nexxus Humectress Leave-In Conditioner Spray 9oz – Best for Dry Hair
- Pureology Color Fanatic Leave-In Spray, 6.7 fl oz – Best for Color-Treated Hair
- Pantene Pro-V Repair & Protect Detangler Spray 3-Pack 8.5oz – Best Value
- PRAVANA Intense Therapy Leave-In Conditioner Spray 10.1oz – Best for Frizzy Hair
Marc Anthony Leave-In Conditioner & Detangler with Biotin
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to apply
- ✓ Detangles and reduces frizz
- ✓ Adds shine and strength
- ✕ Does not promote new growth
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
| Product Volume | 8.4 fl oz (248 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Caffeine, Ginseng, Vitamin E, Biotin |
| Application Type | Leave-in spray for wet or damp hair |
| Free From | [‘Parabens’, ‘SLS’, ‘Sulfates’, ‘Phthalates’] |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types |
| Usage Instructions | Spray onto roots to ends, comb through, do not rinse |
As I spritzed this Marc Anthony Leave-In Conditioner onto my damp hair, I immediately felt how lightweight and refreshing it was. The fine mist spread evenly, coating every strand without feeling heavy or greasy.
I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly it detangled my hair, even in the thickest sections.
Applying it from roots to ends, I noticed how quickly it absorbed, leaving my hair feeling soft and manageable. The scent is subtle yet pleasant—nothing overpowering, just a clean, fresh aroma.
As I ran my fingers through, I could tell it was working to tame frizz and add some shine, without weighing my hair down.
What really stood out is how strong my hair felt after styling. It seemed less prone to breakage, which is a big plus for my long strands that tend to split.
The spray’s formula, packed with caffeine, ginseng, and vitamin E, gave me confidence that my hair was getting some nourishing support without any harsh chemicals.
Overall, this spray is a breeze to use, and I love that I don’t have to rinse it out. It’s perfect for busy mornings or when I want to refresh my hair mid-day.
While it doesn’t promote growth, it definitely helps keep my hair looking healthier and stronger. Plus, at this price point, it’s hard to beat the value.
Nexxus Humectress Leave-In Conditioner Spray 9oz
- ✓ Multi-benefit formula
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Lightweight and effective
- ✕ Can weigh down fine hair
- ✕ Needs careful application
| Volume | 9 ounces (266 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types |
| Key Ingredients | Biotin and Hyaluronic Acid |
| Heat Protection Level | Provides heat protection (specific temperature limit not specified) |
| Application Use | Can be used on dry or damp hair before blow drying or heat styling |
| Benefits | Moisturizes, repairs damage, fights frizz, reduces breakage, improves manageability |
Imagine reaching for what looks like a simple spray bottle, only to find it feels surprisingly hefty in your hand. That unexpected weight hints at how much product is packed inside, and honestly, it kind of reassures you that this isn’t just a lightweight gimmick.
The spray itself delivers a fine mist that evenly coats damp hair without overdoing it. I was initially skeptical about how a spray could deeply nourish, but the Biotin and Hyaluronic Acid infusion really shine through.
Your hair feels instantly softer and more manageable after just a few spritzes.
What I loved is how versatile it is. Whether you’re blow-drying or air drying, it acts as a primer and protector.
It fights frizz, reduces flyaways, and adds a subtle shine—almost like giving your hair a mini spa treatment every time. Plus, it helps preserve color and reduces breakage, so your hair stays healthier longer.
The scent is light and fresh, not overwhelming, which is a bonus for daily use. I noticed that even after styling, my waves and curls looked more defined without that crunchy or weighed-down feeling.
It’s a true multi-tasker for all hair types—it felt like I was getting 20 benefits in one spray bottle.
One thing to keep in mind: a little goes a long way. Over-spraying can weigh down fine hair, so moderation is key.
But overall, this spray makes my routine quicker and my hair visibly better—what more could you ask for?
Pureology Color Fanatic Leave-In Spray, 6.7 fl oz
- ✓ Lightweight, non-greasy
- ✓ Easy detangling
- ✓ Stronger, healthier hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Spray nozzle could be finer
| Volume | 6.7 fl oz (198 ml) |
| Main Benefits | Nourishes, strengthens, and protects hair; 4X stronger strands |
| Infused Ingredients | Xylose, coconut oil, camellia oil |
| Heat and Damage Protection | Protects against heat styling and reduces damage |
| Formulation | Lightweight, non-greasy, suitable for all hair types, free from sulfates, parabens, and mineral oils |
| Vegan and Salon-Quality | Yes |
As soon as I spritzed the Pureology Color Fanatic Leave-In Spray onto damp hair, I was impressed by how quickly it absorbed without any greasy feel. The spray’s fine mist distributes evenly, coating every strand effortlessly, which makes detangling feel like a breeze.
What stood out most is how lightweight it feels—no heaviness or residue, even after multiple sprays. My hair instantly felt smoother, shinier, and more manageable.
I love that it’s infused with nourishing oils like coconut and camellia, which give my hair a healthy glow without weighing it down.
During styling, I noticed a significant reduction in frizz and an easier blow-dry. It protects against heat, so I don’t worry about damage from my tools.
Plus, I found that my hair was 4X stronger after a few uses, which is pretty impressive for a leave-in spray.
The multi-tasking benefits really shine—detangling is now 9X easier, and my hair feels repaired and resilient. It’s perfect for all hair types, and I appreciate that it’s vegan and free from sulfates, parabens, and mineral oils.
It’s like giving my hair a daily spa treatment, but in a simple spray.
Overall, this spray combines protection, nourishment, and frizz control into one easy-to-use product. It’s a true game-changer for anyone who wants salon-quality results at home without the weight or buildup.
Pantene Pro-V Repair & Protect Detangler Spray 3-Pack 8.5oz
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Instantly softens hair
- ✓ Adds shine and strength
- ✕ Might need reapplication for very tangled hair
- ✕ Not a heavy-duty repair solution
| Product Volume | 8.5 fl oz per can |
| Pack Size | 3-pack |
| Intended Use | Leave-in conditioner spray for wet hair |
| Key Ingredients | Enriched with antioxidants |
| Primary Benefits | Hydrates, detangles, reduces protein loss, strengthens hair |
| Application Type | Leave-in spray |
While spritzing this Pantene Pro-V Repair & Protect Detangler Spray onto damp hair, I was surprised to notice how quickly it absorbed without feeling greasy or heavy. Usually, I expect detanglers to weigh my hair down, but this one felt surprisingly lightweight.
The spray has a pleasant, subtle scent that lingers just enough to feel fresh but not overpowering. It’s easy to spray evenly over my strands, thanks to the fine mist nozzle.
I could see how it would be ideal for quick detangling after a shower or during styling.
What really stood out was its ability to make my hair instantly softer and more manageable. Even after a rough blow-dry, my hair looked shiny and healthy, not dull or frizzy.
It feels like it’s giving my strands a little extra armor against damage, thanks to the antioxidants.
Applying this spray is a breeze—just a few spritzes and my comb glides smoothly through my wet hair. I’ve used it on both dry and damaged hair, and it consistently restores some life and strength.
Plus, the 8.5 oz size means I don’t have to worry about running out anytime soon.
Overall, this detangler feels like a luxury treatment without the hefty price tag. It’s perfect for anyone craving softer, shinier, and healthier-looking hair with less breakage.
Just keep in mind that it might not be enough for very tangled or extremely damaged hair on its own.
PRAVANA Intense Therapy Leave-In Conditioner Spray 10.1oz
- ✓ Excellent detangling
- ✓ Hydrates without weight
- ✓ Builds hair strength
- ✕ Might be too light for very dry hair
- ✕ Can be overused on oily hair
| Hair Type Compatibility | All hair types |
| Product Type | Leave-In Conditioner Spray |
| Size | 10.1 oz (300 ml) |
| Key Benefits | [‘Detangles’, ‘Hydrates’, ‘Builds strength’] |
| Application | Spray on wet hair |
| Additional Features | Hydrating and strengthening formula |
You’ve just stepped out of the shower, towel-drying your hair, and reach for the PRAVANA Intense Therapy Leave-In Conditioner Spray. As you spritz it onto your damp strands, you immediately notice how fine the mist is—light yet thorough, covering your hair evenly without drenching it.
What surprises you next is how easily it detangles even the most stubborn knots. A quick brush runs through smoothly, no tugging or pulling needed.
It’s like the spray softens and preps your hair in one step.
Once you start blow-drying, you see the real magic. Your hair feels noticeably more hydrated and stronger.
There’s a subtle shine, and it looks healthier right away. The hydration isn’t heavy or greasy; it feels natural and lightweight.
For daily use, especially if your hair is all over the place from humidity or styling, this spray is a game-changer. It’s versatile enough for all hair types, which is a huge plus.
Plus, it’s pretty affordable for the quality you get.
One thing to note: if your hair is extremely oily, you might want to use a bit less. Otherwise, it’s a simple, effective product that makes your wet hair easier to manage and leaves it feeling stronger and more resilient.
What Are Leave-In Conditioners and Why Are They Important for Wet Hair?
Leave-in conditioners are specialized hair care products designed to be applied after washing and left in the hair without rinsing, offering numerous benefits for maintaining healthy hair, especially when applied to wet hair.
- Moisture Retention: Leave-in conditioners provide an extra layer of hydration to hair that can be particularly beneficial when it is still wet. This moisture helps to lock in hydration, reducing dryness and preventing frizz.
- Detangling: Applying a leave-in conditioner to wet hair can make the detangling process much easier. The added slip from the product allows brushes and combs to glide through the hair, minimizing breakage and damage during styling.
- Heat Protection: Many leave-in conditioners contain heat protectants, which safeguard the hair from damage caused by styling tools such as blow dryers and flat irons. Applying these products to wet hair ensures a protective barrier is established before any heat is applied.
- Enhanced Manageability: Leave-in conditioners improve the overall manageability of hair, making it easier to style and control. This is especially important for those with curly or textured hair types, as it helps define curls and reduce frizz.
- Long-lasting Benefits: The effects of a leave-in conditioner are not just immediate; they provide ongoing benefits throughout the day. When applied to wet hair, these products continue to work as the hair dries, helping to maintain softness and shine.
What Benefits Do Leave-In Conditioners Provide When Used on Wet Hair?
Leave-in conditioners offer numerous benefits when applied to wet hair, enhancing hair health and manageability.
- Moisture Retention: Leave-in conditioners help lock in moisture immediately after washing, preventing the hair from drying out. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with curly or dry hair types, as it keeps strands hydrated and reduces frizz.
- Detangling: Applying leave-in conditioner on wet hair makes it easier to comb through tangles and knots. The added slip provided by these conditioners minimizes breakage during styling, allowing for smoother detangling without causing damage.
- Heat Protection: Many leave-in conditioners contain ingredients that provide a barrier against heat styling tools. When used on wet hair, these products can help protect the hair from heat damage during blow-drying or flat-ironing, contributing to overall hair health.
- Enhanced Shine: Leave-in conditioners can impart a natural shine to wet hair, making it look healthier and more vibrant. This shine is often a result of emollients and oils that smooth the hair cuticle, reflecting light better.
- Frizz Control: The formulation of most leave-in conditioners includes anti-frizz agents that help tame unruly hair. When applied to wet hair, these products can create a protective layer that combats humidity and keeps hair looking sleek and polished.
- Improved Manageability: Using leave-in conditioners on wet hair enhances overall manageability by making the hair easier to style. This is especially helpful for those with textured or coarse hair, allowing for more effortless styling and reducing the time spent on hair care routines.
- Added Nutrients: Many leave-in conditioners are enriched with vitamins and proteins that nourish the hair. When applied to wet hair, these nutrients are more readily absorbed, promoting healthier strands and potentially preventing damage over time.
How Do Leave-In Conditioner Sprays Work on Wet Hair?
Leave-in conditioner sprays are specially formulated treatments that provide hydration and protection to wet hair.
- Moisture Retention: Leave-in conditioners contain humectants that attract and retain moisture in the hair, helping to prevent dryness and brittleness.
- Detangling Properties: These sprays often include ingredients that smooth the hair cuticle, making it easier to detangle wet hair and reducing breakage during the combing process.
- Heat Protection: Many leave-in conditioners offer heat protection, shielding hair from damage caused by styling tools, which is particularly beneficial when applied to wet hair before blow-drying.
- Frizz Control: Leave-in conditioners can help tame frizz by sealing the hair cuticle, which prevents humidity from causing hair to swell and become unmanageable.
- Styling Aid: These sprays can also serve as a light styling product, providing hold and enhancing the natural texture of the hair when it dries.
- Improved Manageability: Regular use of leave-in conditioner sprays can lead to softer, more manageable hair, making it easier to style and maintain healthy locks.
Moisture retention is key for maintaining hair health, especially when it’s wet, as the cuticles are more receptive to absorbing nourishing ingredients. Detangling properties are crucial because wet hair is more prone to breakage; thus, a leave-in conditioner spray can facilitate easier combing and styling.
Heat protection is important for those who use blow dryers or other heat styling tools, as these sprays can create a barrier against high temperatures. Frizz control is particularly beneficial in humid climates, where the hair can quickly become unruly, and the right leave-in conditioner can help maintain a smooth appearance.
As a styling aid, leave-in conditioners can enhance the hair’s natural texture while providing light hold, perfect for creating effortless styles. Improved manageability leads to less time spent styling and healthier-looking hair, making leave-in conditioner sprays an essential part of many hair care routines.
What Ingredients Should You Look For in a Leave-In Conditioner Spray?
When searching for the best leave-in conditioner spray for wet hair, consider the following key ingredients:
- Hydrating Agents: Look for ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera, which draw moisture into the hair, helping to prevent dryness and frizz. These agents also provide a lightweight feel, ensuring that the hair remains soft and manageable without weighing it down.
- Proteins: Ingredients such as keratin, silk proteins, or wheat proteins help to strengthen the hair structure and reduce breakage. They work by filling in gaps in the hair cuticle, leading to smoother strands and improved resilience against damage.
- Natural Oils: Oils like argan, jojoba, or coconut oil nourish the hair and add shine while providing essential fatty acids. These oils can help seal in moisture and enhance the overall health of the hair, making it look vibrant and well-maintained.
- Silicones: Silicones such as dimethicone offer a protective barrier that smooths the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and enhancing shine. They also help to detangle wet hair, making it easier to comb through and style without causing breakage.
- Humectants: Ingredients like honey and panthenol are excellent for drawing moisture from the environment into the hair. This is especially beneficial for wet hair, as it helps maintain hydration levels and keeps the hair soft and pliable.
- Vitamins: Vitamins like B5 (panthenol) and E are vital for promoting hair health. They can help improve the overall condition of the hair, providing nourishment that supports growth and prevents damage.
- UV Filters: Look for leave-in conditioners that contain UV filters to protect hair from the harmful effects of sun exposure. This is especially important for maintaining color-treated hair and preventing fading due to sun damage.
How Does Hair Type Influence the Effectiveness of Leave-In Conditioner Sprays?
Hair type significantly affects how well leave-in conditioner sprays work on wet hair.
- Straight Hair: Leave-in conditioners can provide moisture and shine, but may weigh down fine strands if too heavy.
- Wavy Hair: These types benefit greatly from leave-in conditioners as they help define waves and reduce frizz, enhancing the natural texture.
- Curl Hair: Curly hair often requires more moisture, making leave-in conditioners essential for hydration and curl definition, especially when applied to wet hair.
- Kinky Hair: This hair type usually needs rich, nourishing leave-in conditioners to maintain moisture and prevent breakage, and applying them on wet hair can lock in hydration.
- Color-Treated Hair: Leave-in conditioners can help preserve color and shine, but the choice of spray should be lightweight to avoid buildup on chemically treated strands.
Straight hair, particularly if fine or oily, might find that heavier leave-in conditioners can make it look limp; therefore, lightweight options are often recommended. On the other hand, wavy hair thrives with leave-in sprays that enhance its natural texture and help manage frizz, making them a popular choice for this type.
Curl hair generally needs more hydration, so leave-in conditioners are crucial for maintaining curl elasticity and preventing dryness; they work best when applied while the hair is still wet, allowing for optimal moisture retention. Kinky hair, characterized by its tight coils, benefits immensely from rich formulations that not only hydrate but also help prevent the hair from becoming brittle.
For color-treated hair, selecting a leave-in conditioner spray that protects the color while moisturizing is important, and choosing a lightweight formulation can help avoid the greasy feeling that sometimes accompanies richer products, especially when the hair is wet.
Which Leave-In Conditioner Sprays Are Highly Recommended for Use on Wet Hair?
When seeking effective leave-in conditioner sprays for use on wet hair, several options stand out for their performance and user satisfaction. These products not only hydrate and detangle but also prime the hair for styling.
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Ouai Leave In Conditioner: This lightweight formula helps to condition and detangle while protecting the hair from heat damage. Infused with a blend of amino acids, it strengthens and enhances shine.
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It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product: Highly praised for its versatility, this spray offers ten benefits, including moisture retention and frizz control. It works well on damp hair, making it easier to manage and style.
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Briogeo Farewell Frizz Rosarco Milk Leave-In Conditioning Spray: Featuring a blend of rosehip, argan, and coconut oils, it nourishes and smooths hair while combating frizz, making it ideal for wet application.
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SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner: Perfect for curly and coily hair types, this product provides hydration, strengthens strands, and is rich in nutrients, enhancing overall hair health.
Choosing any of these top-rated leave-in conditioners can significantly improve hair texture and manageability when applied to wet hair.
What Leave-In Conditioners Provide the Best Hydration and Moisture?
The best leave-in conditioners that provide excellent hydration and moisture are formulated to enhance the health and appearance of wet hair.
- It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product: This leave-in conditioner spray offers ten benefits, including detangling, moisturizing, and enhancing shine. Its lightweight formulation is ideal for wet hair, as it deeply penetrates the strands, helping to restore moisture and protect against heat damage.
- Ouai Leave-In Conditioner: Infused with a blend of nourishing ingredients, this leave-in conditioner spray provides hydration while also protecting hair from environmental damage. Its lightweight texture ensures that it doesn’t weigh hair down, making it perfect for use on freshly washed, wet hair.
- SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner: This conditioner is rich in natural oils and helps to strengthen and moisturize hair, making it particularly beneficial for curly or coily textures. It can be applied to wet hair to lock in moisture, making styling easier and ensuring hair remains hydrated throughout the day.
- Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate + Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioner: Formulated with shea butter and other hydrating ingredients, this leave-in conditioner spray effectively quenches dry hair. It works well on wet hair, allowing the moisture to be absorbed deeply, resulting in softer and more manageable locks.
- Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner: Designed specifically for curly hair, this leave-in conditioner detangles while providing moisture and shine. When applied to wet hair, it helps to define curls and reduce frizz, promoting a healthy and hydrated appearance.
Which Leave-In Conditioners Offer Heat Protection for Wet Hair?
Some of the best leave-in conditioners that offer heat protection for wet hair include:
- It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product: This versatile formula not only detangles and adds shine but also provides heat protection up to 450°F. It contains ingredients like sunflower seed extract and hydrolyzed silk that nourish the hair while safeguarding it from thermal damage.
- Moroccanoil All-In-One Leave-In Conditioner: Infused with argan oil and vitamins, this lightweight spray hydrates and protects hair from heat styling tools. Its unique formula helps to improve elasticity and manageability, making it ideal for wet hair before blow-drying or flat-ironing.
- Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner: Specifically designed for curly and textured hair, this leave-in conditioner not only provides moisture but also offers protection against heat styling. It features a blend of natural oils and botanical extracts that help to define curls while preventing heat-related damage.
- Kenra Platinum Snail Anti-Aging Leave-In Conditioner: This leave-in product is enriched with snail mucin, which is known for its regenerative properties, and it provides excellent heat protection. It detangles and strengthens hair while also defending against thermal damage from styling tools.
- SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner: With its rich formulation of Jamaican black castor oil and shea butter, this leave-in conditioner is perfect for repairing damaged hair while providing heat protection. It enhances moisture retention and promotes healthy hair growth, making it a great choice for wet hair.
How Should You Apply Leave-In Conditioner Spray for Optimal Results?
To achieve the best results with leave-in conditioner spray for wet hair, follow these steps:
- Start with clean, damp hair: Always apply leave-in conditioner to freshly washed hair for maximum absorption and effectiveness.
- Shake the product: Before using the leave-in conditioner spray, make sure to shake the bottle well to evenly mix the ingredients.
- Section your hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections to ensure even distribution of the product throughout your hair.
- Spray from a distance: Hold the spray bottle about 6-8 inches away from your hair to avoid over-saturating any single area.
- Use a comb or your fingers: After applying, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to distribute the leave-in conditioner evenly from roots to ends.
- Follow with styling products: If you use other styling products, apply them after the leave-in conditioner for best results.
- Allow hair to air dry or style as desired: You can either let your hair air dry for a natural look or proceed with blow-drying or styling techniques.
Starting with clean, damp hair ensures that the leave-in conditioner can penetrate the hair shaft effectively, providing the nutrients and moisture your hair needs. This step is crucial as it enhances the conditioner’s ability to work on your hair’s texture and health.
Shaking the product helps to combine any separated ingredients, ensuring that you are applying the full benefits of the leave-in conditioner. This can also prevent an uneven application, which is essential for achieving the best results.
By sectioning your hair, you are able to focus on each part individually, ensuring that every strand receives adequate product. This method prevents clumps and ensures a more uniform distribution, which is key to maintaining healthy and hydrated hair.
Spraying from a distance helps to mist the product rather than saturate it, which can cause hair to feel heavy or greasy. This technique allows the spray to cover a larger area and avoids concentrated spots that can weigh down your hair.
Using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to distribute the product further helps to detangle and smooth the hair while ensuring that the leave-in conditioner is spread evenly from the roots to the ends. This step enhances manageability and reduces frizz.
Applying additional styling products after the leave-in conditioner is important as it allows the conditioner to act as a base layer of moisture and protection. This can enhance the effectiveness of the styling products you choose to use.
Finally, whether you choose to air dry or use heat styling methods, the leave-in conditioner will provide ongoing hydration and protection, leading to healthier-looking hair. This flexibility allows you to customize your styling routine while still benefiting from the conditioning properties of the spray.
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