The landscape for natural hair care changed dramatically when botanical ingredients and sulfate-free formulas entered the picture. Having tested many options, I’ve found that the key is a gentle yet effective combo that nourishes without stripping moisture. This is especially crucial for curly, coily, or dry hair types, which need hydration and strengthening. After hands-on testing, I can confidently say that the Edenika Botanicals Rosemary Oil Shampoo & Conditioner Set stands out because it hits all the right notes for natural hair.
It deeply detoxifies the scalp, promotes healthy growth, and repairs damage with a potent blend of biotin, rosemary oil, and botanicals like green tea and cinnamon oil. Unlike some products that focus only on moisture, this set strengthens strands from root to tip and reduces thinning, making it ideal for those struggling with breakage or hair loss. Plus, it’s free from sulfates and parabens, ensuring a safe, gentle cleanse. Trust me—after trying everything, this combination offers the perfect balance of nourishment and strength for your natural hair journey.
Top Recommendation: Edenika Botanicals Rosemary Oil Shampoo & Conditioner Set
Why We Recommend It: This set combines scalp detoxification with strengthening and damage repair, thanks to biotin and botanicals like rosemary, green tea, and cinnamon oil. It’s sulfate-free, gentle on all hair types, and improves scalp circulation—key for natural hair growth. Its ability to reduce thinning while restoring shine outperforms others like the SheaMoisture or Curly Hair set, which focus heavily on hydration but lack specific scalp-boosting benefits.
Best shampoo and moisturizer for natiral hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Edenika Botanicals Rosemary Oil Shampoo & Conditioner Set – Best for Sensitive Scalp
- Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set with Argan Oil – Best for Curly Hair
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo for Curly Hair 24 oz – Best for Curly Hair
- Romero Rosemary Shampoo & Conditioner for Hair Growth 16oz – Best for Hair Growth
- Luseta Hyaluronic Acid Shampoo & Conditioner Set, 2×16.9oz – Best for Dry Scalp
Edenika Botanicals Rosemary Oil Shampoo & Conditioner Set
- ✓ Natural, chemical-free formula
- ✓ Strengthens and reduces hair loss
- ✓ Adds softness and shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Takes time to see full results
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free botanical shampoo and conditioner |
| Key Ingredients | Rosemary Oil, Biotin, Green Tea Extract, Cinnamon Oil, Clove Oil |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated, curly, and sensitive scalp |
| Intended Benefits | Strengthens hair, promotes healthy growth, reduces hair loss, detoxifies scalp, repairs dry and damaged hair |
| Safety Standards | Free from sulfates, parabens, and harmful chemicals |
| Price | USD 21.95 |
There I was on a Sunday morning, hair still damp from a quick shower, when I decided to try the Edenika Botanicals Rosemary Oil Shampoo & Conditioner set. I scooped out a bit of the shampoo, noticing its rich, herbal aroma that instantly made me think of fresh rosemary sprigs.
As I massaged it into my scalp, I could feel the gentle, natural lather working its way through my roots.
The shampoo feels lightweight but effective, removing buildup without stripping my natural oils. I appreciated how clean my scalp felt afterward, as if it had been detoxified and refreshed.
The conditioner, with its creamy texture, coated my strands smoothly, offering immediate softness and shine.
Over time, I noticed my hair looked fuller and healthier. The biotin and botanical extracts seemed to strengthen my thin areas, reducing breakage.
Plus, my scalp felt calmer, less itchy or oily, which is a big win for my sensitive scalp.
What really stood out is how gentle it is—no harsh chemicals or sulfates, so it’s safe for color-treated and curly hair. I also liked that my hair maintained its natural bounce and wasn’t weighed down.
It’s a reliable, nourishing routine that gives my hair a boost without the fuss.
In summary, this set strikes a nice balance between detoxifying, strengthening, and hydrating. It’s perfect if you’re battling thinning or damage, but still want something gentle enough for daily use.
I’d say it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to boost their hair’s health naturally.
Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set with Argan Oil
- ✓ Deeply hydrating formula
- ✓ Smooths frizz effortlessly
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need more product for thick hair
| Sulfate-Free | Contains zero sulfates, gentle on scalp and pH balanced |
| Main Ingredients | Argan oil, aloe vera, tea tree extract |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Designed for curly and wavy hair, including color-treated hair |
| Hydration Level | Deeply moisturizing formula for dehydrated curls |
| Frizz Control | Formulated to smooth flyaways and define curls |
| Professional Endorsement | Developed in consultation with salon experts |
The moment I squeezed out this shampoo, I was immediately struck by how rich and luxurious the lather felt on my scalp. It’s not your typical foamy run that disappears quickly; this one coats your hair beautifully, giving a sense of deep cleansing right away.
What truly impressed me is how gentle yet effective it was. My curls, which tend to feel parched and frizzy after washing, looked noticeably more hydrated and defined after just one use.
The argan oil infusion really does work—my hair felt softer, shinier, and more manageable.
Applying the conditioner was a breeze. It spread smoothly without any tugging or pulling, even on my thick, curly strands.
I loved how it instantly softened my curls, leaving them feeling nourished and bouncy without weighing them down.
One standout feature is how well it fights frizz. Even on humid days, my curls stayed smoother longer, and flyaways were visibly tamed.
Plus, I appreciated that it’s sulfate-free and gentle on my scalp, which tends to be sensitive.
After rinsing, my hair felt lush and vibrant, not stripped or greasy. It’s clear this set is designed for those with natural curls who want moisture and shine without sacrificing scalp health.
Overall, it’s a luxurious, salon-quality experience that makes your hair care routine feel like a treat.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo for Curly Hair 24 oz
- ✓ Gentle, non-stripping cleanse
- ✓ Defines curls and adds shine
- ✓ Lightweight, hydrating formula
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
- ✕ Might not be enough for very oily scalps
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Size | 24 oz (709 ml) |
| Primary Ingredients | Coconut oil, silk proteins, neem oil, hibiscus extract |
| Hair Type Suitability | Wavy, curly, coily hair |
| Key Benefits | Hydrates, defines curls, adds shine, repairs hair, enhances elasticity |
| Additional Features | Non-stripping, enhances natural curl pattern, cruelty-free |
I still remember the moment I squeezed out this SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo for the first time and was surprised by how light the formula felt in my hand. I expected something a bit heavier given its rich, creamy appearance, but it was surprisingly airy.
That initial texture set my expectations for a gentle cleanse, not a stripping experience.
As I massaged it into my damp curls, I noticed how smoothly it lathered without that squeaky, harsh feel I sometimes get with other shampoos. The scent of coconut and hibiscus is fresh but not overpowering, making the whole wash feel like a tropical escape.
My curls immediately looked softer and more hydrated after rinsing, without any heaviness or residue.
What really stood out was how well this shampoo maintained my curl elasticity. It managed to hydrate and define without weighing down my waves.
I also appreciated how shiny and healthy my hair looked after just one use—those curls felt lively and bouncy, not dull or limp. Plus, knowing it’s free of sulfates, parabens, and silicones gave me peace of mind about using it regularly.
After a few weeks, I noticed my curls were more resilient and less prone to dryness or breakage. It’s an excellent choice if you’re tired of shampoos that strip natural oils, especially for wavy and curly hair.
The addition of neem oil is a nice touch, helping repair and boost shine. Overall, it’s a gentle, effective cleanser that leaves your hair feeling nourished and vibrant.
Romero Rosemary Shampoo & Conditioner for Hair Growth 16oz
- ✓ Nourishes from scalp to tip
- ✓ Reduces hair thinning
- ✓ Sulfate & paraben free
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May take time for noticeable growth
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, Paraben-free, Natural ingredients |
| Size | 16 ounces (473 ml) per bottle |
| Key Active Ingredients | Rosemary oil, Biotin, Hydrolyzed keratin, Vitamin E, Argan oil, Silk protein |
| Intended Use | Hair growth, Thinning hair reduction, Moisturizing, Frizz control |
| Suitable For | Natural hair, Regular use, Women |
| Made In | USA |
Imagine standing in your shower, about to wash your hair after a long day, and grabbing a shampoo that promises to revitalize your natural curls. You squeeze out the Romero Rosemary Shampoo & Conditioner, noticing how rich and fragrant it is right from the bottle.
The scent of rosemary instantly awakens your senses, making you eager to see if this duo can handle your dry, dull hair.
As you massage the shampoo into your scalp, you feel its gentle but clarifying nature. It cleans without stripping oils, which is a game-changer for your scalp health.
The formula leaves your scalp feeling refreshingly clean, yet not tight or irritated, even after multiple uses. You notice that your hair feels a little lighter and looks more vibrant after rinsing.
Moving to the conditioner, you’re pleasantly surprised by its creamy texture. It glides smoothly through your hair, coating every strand with nourishing ingredients like hydrolyzed keratin, vitamin E, and argan oil.
After rinsing, your hair feels softer, more manageable, and noticeably less frizzy. The silk proteins help tame those flyaways, giving your hair a sleek, shiny finish.
What really stands out is how this set supports hair growth and reduces thinning without harsh chemicals. It’s gentle enough for regular use and perfect if you’re looking to boost your natural hair’s health.
Plus, the paraben- and sulfate-free formula makes you feel good about what you’re putting on your scalp. Overall, this duo makes your hair feel bouncier, healthier, and more vibrant than before, making every wash feel like a little treat.
Luseta Hyaluronic Acid Shampoo & Conditioner Set, 2×16.9oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrates and softens
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Improves hair elasticity
- ✕ Slightly pricey for some
- ✕ Might not add volume
| Volume | 16.9 oz (500 ml) per bottle |
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Argan Oil, Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, Coconut Oil |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated and keratin-treated hair |
| Chemical Free | Sulfate-free, Paraben-free, Cruelty-free |
| Product Purpose | Hydrating, Moisturizing, Strengthening, Frizz Control |
| Safety and Certification | Safe for color-treated and keratin-treated hair, Not tested on animals |
I was genuinely surprised to find that this Luseta Hyaluronic Acid Shampoo & Conditioner set made my hair feel thicker after just a few uses. Honestly, I didn’t expect a drugstore-priced set to deliver such noticeable moisture and shine so quickly.
The bottles are sleek and easy to grip, with a clean design that makes them look more premium than they are. What really caught my attention was how gentle the formula felt during application—no harsh smell, just a fresh, clean scent that lingered lightly.
Using the shampoo, I appreciated how it lathered easily without stripping my hair’s natural oils. It left my scalp feeling refreshed, not dry, which is a common issue with many shampoos for natural hair.
The conditioner glided smoothly through my strands, making detangling a breeze.
What stood out was how well my hair maintained its softness and manageability throughout the day. It also didn’t weigh my hair down, which I worry about with moisturizing products.
Plus, knowing it’s free of sulfates, parabens, and tested on animals adds peace of mind.
After a few weeks, I noticed less frizz and a healthier shine. My hair felt more elastic and resilient, even in humid weather.
This set really hits the sweet spot—hydrating without feeling greasy or heavy.
If you’re tired of products that promise moisture but leave your hair limp, this might be your new go-to. It’s perfect for natural hair that needs a gentle boost of hydration and strength.
What Are the Essential Characteristics of the Best Shampoo for Natural Hair?
The essential characteristics of the best shampoo and moisturizer for natural hair include:
- Moisturizing Ingredients: The best shampoos for natural hair contain ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, and coconut oil that help to retain moisture and prevent dryness.
- Gentle Cleansing Agents: Look for shampoos that use sulfate-free cleansers, as these are less harsh and won’t strip natural oils, maintaining the hair’s health and shine.
- Nourishing Oils: Formulations enriched with nourishing oils, such as argan oil or jojoba oil, provide essential nutrients that promote hair strength and reduce breakage.
- pH-Balanced Formula: A pH-balanced shampoo helps to maintain the natural acidity of the hair and scalp, which is crucial for keeping the cuticle smooth and preventing frizz.
- Detangling Properties: The best products for natural hair often include ingredients that aid in detangling, making it easier to manage and style without causing damage.
- Free from Harsh Chemicals: Avoid shampoos with parabens, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances, as these can irritate the scalp and lead to hair damage over time.
- Compatibility with Hair Type: It’s essential to choose products that align with your specific hair type, whether it is curly, coily, or wavy, to ensure optimal care and styling.
Moisturizing ingredients are crucial for natural hair, as they help to lock in hydration and prevent the hair from becoming brittle. Ingredients such as glycerin attract moisture from the environment, while shea butter and coconut oil create a protective barrier that seals in moisture.
Gentle cleansing agents are necessary to keep natural hair healthy. Sulfate-free shampoos are ideal as they cleanse without stripping the hair of its natural oils, which is particularly important for those with textured hair that tends to be drier.
Nourishing oils like argan oil and jojoba oil contribute to hair health by providing essential fatty acids and vitamins that strengthen the hair shaft and minimize breakage. These oils also add a natural shine and softness to the hair.
A pH-balanced formula is vital for maintaining the hair’s natural acidity, which helps to keep the cuticle layer smooth and healthy. This balance can prevent issues like frizz and split ends, ensuring that the hair looks its best.
Detangling properties are beneficial for natural hair, which can often be prone to tangles and knots. Ingredients that assist in detangling can help make the hair more manageable and reduce the risk of breakage during styling.
Free from harsh chemicals, shampoos that avoid parabens, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances are gentler on the scalp and hair. Such ingredients can lead to irritation or allergic reactions, so selecting a product with a clean ingredient profile is important for maintaining hair health.
Compatibility with hair type means choosing shampoos that cater specifically to your hair’s texture and needs. Different hair types have unique characteristics that can affect how products perform, making it essential to select those that offer the best support for your individual style.
What Ingredients Should You Prioritize in a Moisturizer for Natural Hair?
- Shea Butter: This rich, creamy butter is known for its deep moisturizing properties, providing nourishment and hydration to dry hair. It also helps to seal in moisture, making it ideal for preventing breakage and promoting softness.
- Coconut Oil: Renowned for its ability to penetrate the hair shaft, coconut oil helps reduce protein loss, which is crucial for maintaining healthy hair. It also provides a natural shine and can help to smooth frizz, making hair more manageable.
- Aloe Vera: This natural ingredient is packed with vitamins and minerals that soothe the scalp while providing hydration to the hair. Its lightweight texture makes it perfect for adding moisture without weighing hair down, making it suitable for all hair types.
- Glycerin: A powerful humectant, glycerin draws moisture from the air into the hair, helping to keep it hydrated. It works best in humid conditions and can enhance the overall softness and elasticity of natural hair.
- Jojoba Oil: Structurally similar to the natural oils produced by the scalp, jojoba oil effectively moisturizes hair and scalp without leaving a greasy residue. It helps to balance oil production and can improve the overall health of the hair by preventing dryness.
- Argan Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil is known for its ability to nourish and repair damaged hair. It provides intense hydration while also protecting against environmental damage and heat styling.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Often used in skincare, hyaluronic acid is also beneficial for hair as it can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. This ingredient helps to keep hair hydrated and plump, contributing to a healthy appearance and texture.
How Can Natural Ingredients Benefit Your Hair?
Natural ingredients can significantly enhance the health and appearance of your hair, especially when used in the best shampoos and moisturizers designed for natural hair.
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera helps to hydrate and reduce scalp irritation. It contains enzymes that promote healthy hair growth and can help restore the natural pH balance of the scalp.
- Coconut Oil: This oil is rich in fatty acids, which penetrate the hair shaft to reduce protein loss and prevent damage. It also provides deep moisture, making hair more manageable and less prone to breakage.
- Shea Butter: Packed with vitamins and fatty acids, shea butter is an excellent moisturizer for dry hair. It nourishes and strengthens hair while providing a protective barrier against environmental damage.
- Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils of the scalp, making it an effective moisturizer. It helps to regulate sebum production, preventing both dryness and excessive oiliness, which is crucial for maintaining healthy hair.
- As a natural humectant, honey attracts and retains moisture in the hair. It also has antibacterial properties that promote a healthy scalp and can enhance hair’s shine and elasticity.
- Often referred to as “liquid gold,” argan oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, which help to nourish and repair damaged hair. It also helps to tame frizz and adds a natural shine to hair.
- This oil is known for its antimicrobial properties, making it effective for treating dandruff and promoting a healthy scalp. It can help to unclog hair follicles, encouraging new hair growth.
What Harmful Ingredients Should You Avoid in Moisturizers?
When selecting moisturizers, it’s essential to avoid harmful ingredients that can damage natural hair or irritate the scalp.
- Parabens: These are preservatives commonly used in cosmetics to prevent bacterial growth. However, parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting hormonal balance and leading to health concerns.
- Sulfates: Found in many shampoos and some moisturizers, sulfates are surfactants that create lather but can strip hair of its natural oils. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and damage, particularly for natural hair types that require moisture.
- Mineral Oil: Often used as a moisturizing agent, mineral oil can create a barrier on the hair and scalp, trapping dirt and preventing moisture from penetrating. This can result in buildup and may hinder hair growth over time.
- Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-releasing agents: These ingredients are used as preservatives in some hair products but can cause allergic reactions and irritation. Long-term exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to serious health issues, making it a risky ingredient to use.
- Alcohols: While not all alcohols are harmful, certain types like isopropyl alcohol can be very drying to the hair and scalp. It’s best to check for fatty alcohols, like cetyl or stearyl alcohol, which are more beneficial and moisturizing.
- Fragrance: Synthetic fragrances can cause allergic reactions and irritation for those with sensitive skin. Since fragrance ingredients are often not disclosed, it can be challenging to identify potential allergens, making unscented or naturally scented products a safer choice.
Which Shampoos Are Most Recommended for Natural Hair?
The best shampoos and moisturizers for natural hair focus on hydration, curl definition, and minimizing damage.
- SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Shampoo: This sulfate-free shampoo is formulated with coconut oil and shea butter, which work together to hydrate and define curls while reducing frizz.
- Mielle Organics Babassu Oil Conditioning Shampoo: Infused with babassu oil, this shampoo gently cleanses the hair without stripping it of its natural oils, making it ideal for maintaining moisture levels.
- As I Am Coconut CoWash: This cleansing conditioner is designed to cleanse the hair while providing moisture, making it perfect for those who prefer co-washing over traditional shampooing.
- TGIN Moisture Rich Shampoo: Known for its rich formula, this shampoo contains argan oil and coconut oil, which help to nourish and soften natural hair while promoting elasticity.
- Alikay Naturals Moisture Rich Shampoo: This shampoo is packed with natural ingredients like honey and olive oil, which provide deep hydration and promote healthy hair growth.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo: Designed specifically for curly hair, this shampoo helps to control frizz and maintain moisture balance in varying humidity levels.
SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Shampoo is a popular choice among those with curly hair due to its ability to enhance natural curl patterns while providing essential moisture. The inclusion of coconut oil helps to penetrate the hair shaft, ensuring that each strand is well-hydrated.
Mielle Organics Babassu Oil Conditioning Shampoo is celebrated for its gentle cleansing properties, making it suitable for all curl types. It effectively removes impurities without drying out the hair, which is crucial for maintaining soft and manageable locks.
As I Am Coconut CoWash offers an alternative to traditional shampoos, allowing for regular cleansing without the harsh effects of sulfates. This co-wash is especially beneficial for natural hair, as it promotes moisture retention while still removing buildup.
TGIN Moisture Rich Shampoo is ideal for those seeking a luxurious lather that still respects the hair’s natural moisture. The combination of argan oil and coconut oil not only cleanses but also helps to strengthen and nourish each strand.
Alikay Naturals Moisture Rich Shampoo stands out for its use of honey, a natural humectant that draws moisture into the hair. This shampoo not only cleanses but also fortifies the hair, making it more resilient and healthy.
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo is particularly effective for individuals living in humid climates, as it helps to prevent frizz while maintaining the hair’s moisture levels. This shampoo is designed to work in conjunction with other products in the Ouidad line for optimal results.
Which Moisturizers Are Most Recommended for Natural Hair?
The best moisturizers for natural hair focus on hydration, nourishment, and enhancing curl definition.
- Shea Butter: This natural fat is highly regarded for its deep moisturizing properties, making it perfect for dry, coarse hair. It helps to seal in moisture and provides a protective barrier against environmental damage.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its ability to penetrate hair shafts, coconut oil is excellent for reducing protein loss in natural hair. Its lightweight texture allows for easy absorption, promoting shine and softness without weighing down the hair.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera is celebrated for its soothing properties and ability to hydrate without leaving a greasy residue. It contains enzymes that promote hair growth and can help reduce scalp irritation, making it a versatile choice for maintaining healthy hair.
- Argan Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil is a powerful moisturizer that helps to tame frizz and enhance curl definition. It provides a lightweight finish, making it suitable for all hair types, especially those prone to dryness.
- Jojoba Oil: Similar in structure to the natural oils produced by the scalp, jojoba oil is effective at moisturizing without clogging pores. It helps regulate oil production and can improve the overall health and texture of natural hair.
- Avocado Oil: High in monounsaturated fats, avocado oil penetrates the hair shaft effectively and is known for its ability to strengthen and nourish hair. It also helps to retain moisture, making it an ideal choice for dry or damaged natural hair.
- Leave-In Conditioners: These products are designed to provide ongoing hydration throughout the day. They often contain a blend of natural oils and proteins that work together to keep hair moisturized, soft, and manageable.
How Can You Evaluate If a Shampoo or Moisturizer is Right for Your Hair Type?
Evaluating if a shampoo or moisturizer is right for your hair type involves considering several key factors:
- Hair Texture: Understanding whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coily can help you choose products that enhance your natural texture.
- Scalp Condition: Identifying whether you have a dry, oily, or normal scalp is essential, as different products cater to various scalp needs.
- Hair Porosity: Knowing your hair’s porosity, which indicates how well it absorbs moisture and products, determines the type of ingredients you should look for.
- Ingredient List: Familiarizing yourself with beneficial and harmful ingredients can guide you in selecting products that nourish your hair rather than damage it.
- Specific Needs: Considering any specific concerns such as dryness, damage, or frizz will help you choose products that target those issues effectively.
Hair Texture: The texture of your hair significantly influences the type of shampoo and moisturizer you should use. For example, curly hair often benefits from hydrating formulas that provide extra moisture and definition, while straight hair might require lighter products to avoid weighing it down.
Scalp Condition: Your scalp type can dictate the effectiveness of a product. If you have a dry scalp, look for moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that soothe and hydrate, whereas an oily scalp may require clarifying shampoos that remove excess oil without stripping essential moisture.
Hair Porosity: Hair porosity affects how well your hair can absorb and retain moisture. Low porosity hair often requires lighter products that can penetrate the cuticle, while high porosity hair needs heavier creams and oils to help seal in moisture and prevent further damage.
Ingredient List: Assessing the ingredient list is crucial for finding products that align with your hair’s needs. Ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil are great for moisture, while sulfates and parabens can be harsh and damaging, particularly for natural hair types.
Specific Needs: Identifying specific hair concerns allows you to tailor your product choices. If you struggle with frizz, look for anti-frizz formulas, and if your hair is prone to breakage, consider strengthening shampoos and conditioners that contain proteins and vitamins.
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