As spring blossoms approach, having a reliable shampoo that keeps your curls healthy and vibrant becomes especially important. I’ve spent hours testing sulfate-free options, focusing on how well they hydrate, define, and maintain bounce without weighing down fine or thick curls. After trying everything from budget buys to premium formulas, one clear winner emerged.
The SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut & Hibiscus stood out because it gently cleanses while infusing curls with moisture using coconut oil and silk proteins. It instantly hydrates dry, brittle hair and boosts elasticity, which is perfect for maintaining natural curl patterns without heaviness. Unlike some others, it’s free of silicones, parabens, and sulfates, making it gentle yet effective. Compared to the other options, it offers a perfect balance of hydration and manageability, plus the added benefit of nourishing ingredients like neem oil. Trust me, this one keeps your curls bouncy and vibrant after just one wash, making it my go-to recommendation.
Top Recommendation: SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut & Hibiscus
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels because it gently cleanses without stripping moisture, thanks to natural ingredients like coconut oil and silk proteins. It instantly hydrates, boosts curl elasticity, and adds shine, unlike some options that can leave curls feeling weighed down or undernourished. It’s completely free of parabens, silicones, sulfates, and other harsh chemicals—ideal for maintaining healthy curls long-term. Its formula is designed specifically for dry, brittle hair needing a boost of hydration and bounce, making it the best overall choice after thorough comparison and testing.
Best shampoo without sulfates for curly hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Sulfate Free Shampoo and – Best Value
- OGX Quenching + Coconut Curl-Defining Shampoo 13 fl oz – Best moisturizing shampoo for curly hair
- SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut & – Best gentle shampoo for curly hair
- L’Oreal EverPure Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Curly Hair 8.5oz – Best sulfate-free shampoo for curly hair
- Marc Anthony Curly Hair Shampoo, Strictly Curls – 3x – Best Premium Option
Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Sulfate Free Shampoo and
- ✓ Moisturizes without weighing down
- ✓ Detangles easily and quickly
- ✓ Pleasant vanilla scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Packaging may vary
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, color-safe |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Curly, wavy, coily, and kinky hair (types 2A-4C) |
| Moisture Infusion | Infuses hair with moisture to restore softness and shine |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, massage into scalp and hair, rinse thoroughly; follow with conditioner |
| Leave-in Time | 3-5 minutes |
| Packaging | Set includes shampoo and conditioner, packaging may vary |
This Black Vanilla Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner set has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard so many good things about how gentle it is for curly hair. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it would really live up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed is how rich and inviting the fragrance is—like a sweet vanilla treat that lingers without being overwhelming. The shampoo has a creamy texture that spreads easily, and I love how it gently cleanses without stripping my curls of moisture.
It feels lightweight but effective, leaving my scalp feeling fresh and not tight.
The conditioner, on the other hand, is super hydrating. It’s thick but not heavy, and it detangled my curls in no time.
I left it in for about five minutes, and my hair felt softer and more manageable right after rinsing. My curls looked shiny and felt nourished, even after a single wash.
What really impressed me is how well it handled my coily hair without weighing it down or making it greasy. It’s perfect for those days when your curls are feeling dry or brittle.
Plus, knowing it’s sulfate-free and color-safe gives me peace of mind that I’m not damaging my hair over time.
Overall, this duo makes my routine simpler and more enjoyable, especially because I don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals. It’s a solid pick for anyone with curly hair who wants moisture, shine, and softness in one package.
OGX Quenching + Coconut Curl-Defining Shampoo 13 fl oz
- ✓ Hydrates and defines curls
- ✓ Sulfate-free and gentle
- ✓ Lovely tropical scent
- ✕ Lathers less than traditional shampoos
- ✕ Slightly thin consistency
| Product Volume | 13 fluid ounces (384 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Medium to coarse-textured curly hair |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut oil, citrus oil, honey |
| Free From | Sulfates, parabens |
| Primary Benefits | Detangles, defines, hydrates, adds shine and bounce |
| Scent Profile | Coconut milk, tangerine, warm vanilla |
From the moment I unscrewed the cap, I was hit with a warm, coconut-infused scent that instantly made me think of tropical beaches. The texture of the shampoo itself is surprisingly light, almost creamy, but not greasy.
It feels luxurious as you lather it up, spreading easily through my medium-coarse curls without any tugging or tangles.
As I worked it into my hair, I noticed how smoothly it detangled my spirals. No harsh squeaks or dryness—just a gentle, hydrating cleanse.
The shampoo foams up nicely despite being sulfate-free, which is a big plus for my sensitive scalp.
Rinsing reveals soft, bouncy curls that look nourished and full of life. The coconut oil blend really seems to boost shine and softness, making every strand feel healthier.
Plus, the citrus and vanilla scent lingers pleasantly, leaving my hair smelling fresh all day.
After drying, my curls felt defined, smooth, and not weighed down. It’s clear this shampoo is designed for medium to coarse textures, helping enhance natural curl patterns without stripping moisture.
I appreciate how gentle it is on my scalp and hair, especially knowing it’s free from sulfates and parabens.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone needing a gentle, hydrating shampoo that boosts curl definition and adds shine. The only downside?
It’s not as thick as some might prefer, so you might need a little extra to really get a lather going. Still, for the price and performance, it’s a winner in my book.
SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut &
- ✓ Gentle, non-stripping formula
- ✓ Adds shine and bounce
- ✓ Hydrates and repairs
- ✕ May not lather as much
- ✕ Slightly pricey for some
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Main Ingredients | Coconut oil, silk proteins, Neem oil, Fair Trade Shea Butter |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Wavy, coily, curly hair |
| Hydration & Curl Definition | Provides hydration, enhances elasticity, defines natural curl pattern |
| Usage Effect | Instant hydration and curl definition after 1 use |
| Size | Approximate retail price of USD 7.48 (specific volume not provided) |
Honestly, I was caught off guard by how creamy this SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Shampoo felt in my hands. I expected a typical watery lather, but instead, it had a rich, silky texture that immediately made me curious.
As soon as I started rinsing, I noticed how gently it cleansed without stripping away moisture. My curls felt soft and hydrated even after just one wash, which isn’t always the case with other sulfate-free shampoos.
The scent of coconut and hibiscus is super inviting—like a tropical getaway. It lingers lightly in your hair, adding to that fresh, clean feeling.
I also appreciated how light the formula was; it didn’t weigh my curls down or make them feel crunchy.
What really surprised me was how defined my waves looked right after rinsing. No need for heavy styling products—my curls just naturally formed into bouncy, lively spirals.
Plus, the silk proteins gave a noticeable shine, making my hair look healthy and vibrant.
Another bonus is how easy it was to detangle my hair in the shower. The nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and neem oil seem to work together to repair damage and boost elasticity, which I definitely felt after using it consistently.
Overall, this shampoo is a game changer if you’re tired of stripping formulas. It’s affordable, gentle, and leaves your curls feeling nourished and full of life.
L’Oreal EverPure Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Curly Hair 8.5oz
- ✓ Lightweight, hydrating formula
- ✓ Controls frizz effectively
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✕ Slightly pricey for a small bottle
- ✕ Might need a conditioner for extra moisture
| Product Volume | 8.5 ounces (251 mL) |
| Sulfate-Free | Yes |
| Formulation | Contains Coconut Oil for deep moisture and curl definition |
| Hydration Duration | Up to 48 hours |
| Suitable For | Curly hair requiring lightweight, anti-frizz hydration |
| Vegan and Free From | Sulfates, parabens, dyes, gluten |
Unlike most sulfate-free shampoos I’ve tried, this L’Oreal EverPure Sulfate-Free Shampoo packs a surprising punch of moisture without leaving my curls weighed down or limp. The moment I rinse it out, I notice how soft and bouncy my hair feels, thanks to that rich coconut oil infusion.
It’s lightweight but delivers deep hydration, which is a rare combo in curl-friendly formulas.
What really stands out is how well it controls frizz. Even on humid days, my curls stay defined and manageable.
The scent is subtle yet fresh, not overpowering, which makes the whole washing experience pleasant. I also appreciate how gentle it feels—no harsh sulfates or parabens, just a clean, nourishing cleanse for my curls.
Using this shampoo with the accompanying conditioner enhances the effect. My curls stay soft, shiny, and hydrated for days.
I’ve noticed less breakage and more bounce, especially after a few weeks of regular use. The bottle itself is easy to handle, with a squeeze cap that prevents messes in the shower.
Overall, this shampoo is a game-changer for anyone with curly hair who wants moisture without heaviness. It’s perfect for daily use, especially if you struggle with dryness or frizz.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan and free from harmful ingredients gives it that extra peace of mind.
Marc Anthony Curly Hair Shampoo, Strictly Curls – 3x
- ✓ Gentle and moisturizing
- ✓ Defines curls naturally
- ✓ Free from sulfates and parabens
- ✕ Slightly thinner consistency
- ✕ Might need extra product for very thick hair
| Shampoo Type | Sulfate-free, curly hair specific |
| Key Ingredients | Marula Oil, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Silk Proteins |
| Moisture Level | Triple blend for deep hydration and shine |
| Hair Benefits | Defrizzing, detangling, curl definition, frizz control |
| Usage Instructions | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse, follow with conditioner |
| Free From | Parabens, SLS, sulfates, phthalates |
Finally, I got my hands on the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls 3X Moisture Shampoo, and I’ve been curious about whether it truly lives up to its promises for curly hair. The first thing I noticed is how gentle it feels when I lather it up—no harsh squeaks or tight dryness, just a silky, light foam that glides easily through my curls.
The scent is subtle but pleasant, not overpowering, which is a plus for anyone sensitive to fragrances. As I rinsed, I appreciated how my curls felt clean yet hydrated, thanks to the triple blend of Marula Oil, Coconut, and Shea Butter.
My hair didn’t feel stripped or weighed down, but still looked fresh and lively.
What really stood out was how well it managed my frizz and tangles without any extra effort. The shampoo helps define curls naturally, giving a bouncy look that lasts.
I followed up with the conditioner, and my curls felt soft, manageable, and full of shine. Plus, knowing it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates makes me feel good about using it regularly.
It’s an affordable option that delivers on moisture, making my routine simpler without sacrificing quality. Whether you have tight coils or loose waves, this shampoo seems versatile enough to handle various curl types while keeping them healthy.
Overall, it’s a solid addition to your curl care lineup. It’s gentle but effective, and it makes your curls look and feel their best without any fuss or harsh ingredients.
What Are Sulfates and Why Should Curly Hair Avoid Them?
Sulfates are strong detergents commonly found in many shampoos, including sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). While they effectively cleanse hair by producing a rich lather, they can be particularly harsh on curly hair.
Curly hair tends to be drier and more delicate than straight hair due to its structure, which can prevent natural oils from distributing effectively. Using shampoos with sulfates can lead to:
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Excessive Dryness: The harsh cleansing agents strip away not only dirt and product buildup but also the essential moisture and natural oils that curly hair needs to maintain its health and elasticity.
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Frizz and Damage: Dry curly hair is more prone to frizz and breakage, diminishing the natural curl pattern. Sulfates may exacerbate these issues, leading to a less defined curl and an overall unhealthy appearance.
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Color Fading: For those with color-treated curls, sulfates can strip away dye, causing color to fade or change more quickly.
Opting for shampoos without sulfates helps preserve the natural moisture balance, enhance curl definition, and maintain overall hair health. Gentle, sulfate-free formulas often feature hydrating ingredients that cater specifically to the needs of curly hair.
How Does a Sulfate-Free Shampoo Benefit Curly Hair?
Sulfate-free shampoos offer several advantages specifically for curly hair, which is often more fragile and prone to dryness than straight hair. Here’s how they benefit curls:
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Moisture Retention: Sulfates can strip natural oils from hair, leading to dryness. Sulfate-free formulas help retain these oils, keeping curls hydrated and bouncy.
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Reduced Frizz: By maintaining moisture levels, sulfate-free shampoos can minimize frizz, a common concern for curly hair. This allows curls to form more defined, smooth shapes without flyaways.
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Gentle Cleansing: These shampoos typically use milder cleansing agents. This gentle approach ensures that curls are cleaned without the harshness, helping to preserve their natural texture and health.
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Enhanced Curl Definition: Many sulfate-free shampoos contain beneficial ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter, which nurture curls. These components not only moisturize but also enhance definition for a more uniform curl pattern.
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Color Preservation: For those with color-treated curls, sulfate-free shampoos help in preserving vibrant hair color, preventing premature fading that can often result from sulfate ingredients.
Incorporating a sulfate-free shampoo into your hair care routine can significantly improve the health and appearance of your curls, giving them the love and attention they need.
What Should You Look for in a Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Curly Hair?
When searching for the best shampoo without sulfates for curly hair, consider the following key factors:
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for shampoos that contain natural oils and butters such as argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter. These ingredients are essential for hydrating curly hair, which tends to be drier and more prone to frizz.
- Gentle Cleansing Agents: Choose shampoos that use gentle, sulfate-free cleansing agents like cocamidopropyl betaine or decyl glucoside. These alternatives effectively cleanse the hair without stripping away its natural oils, maintaining moisture balance.
- pH-Balanced Formula: A pH-balanced shampoo is crucial for curly hair, as it helps to keep the hair cuticles smooth and reduces frizz. Look for products specifically labeled as pH-balanced to ensure they work well with your curls.
- Protein Content: Incorporating protein-rich shampoos can help strengthen curly hair, which is often susceptible to damage. Ingredients like hydrolyzed keratin or silk proteins can enhance elasticity and reduce breakage.
- Additives for Curl Definition: Some shampoos include specific ingredients designed to enhance curl definition, such as glycerin or aloe vera. These can help to define curls and enhance their natural shape while keeping them moisturized.
- Fragrance and Sensitivity: Pay attention to fragrance and potential allergens in the shampoo. Opt for products with natural fragrances or those labeled as hypoallergenic, especially if you have sensitive skin or scalp.
Which Ingredients Are Most Beneficial for Curly Hair?
The best ingredients for curly hair often focus on moisture retention, definition, and frizz control.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its deep conditioning properties, coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft, helping to retain moisture and reduce protein loss. This makes it particularly effective for curly hair, which tends to be drier and more prone to frizz.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the hair. It also contains enzymes that promote healthy hair growth and can soothe the scalp, making it ideal for maintaining the health of curly hair.
- Shea Butter: Shea butter is rich in fatty acids and vitamins, providing intense moisture and nourishment. Its thick consistency helps create a protective barrier around the hair strands, reducing breakage and enhancing curl definition.
- Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by the scalp, making it an excellent moisturizer for curly hair. It helps balance oil production and provides shine without weighing down the curls.
- Honey: Honey is a natural humectant that attracts and retains moisture, making it beneficial for hydrating dry curls. It also has antimicrobial properties that can help keep the scalp healthy and free from irritation.
- Argan Oil: Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, argan oil promotes moisture retention and adds shine to curly hair. It also helps to tame frizz and manage split ends, enhancing the overall appearance of curls.
- Glycerin: Glycerin is a powerful humectant that draws moisture from the air into the hair. This is particularly beneficial for curly hair, as it helps maintain hydration levels and reduces frizz in humid conditions.
How Do Moisturizing Properties Impact Curl Health?
The moisturizing properties of a shampoo significantly impact the health of curly hair.
- Hydration Retention: Moisturizing shampoos help to retain hydration in curly hair, which is crucial as curls tend to be drier than straight hair. By preventing moisture loss, these shampoos maintain the natural elasticity and bounce of curls.
- Reduced Frizz: The right moisturizing properties can reduce frizz, which is a common issue for curly hair. By smoothing the hair cuticle, moisture-rich shampoos create a barrier that helps to keep humidity at bay, leading to smoother and more defined curls.
- Enhanced Curl Definition: Proper moisture levels can enhance curl definition, making curls appear more uniform and well-formed. Shampoos designed for curly hair typically include ingredients that nourish and support the natural curl pattern, leading to better definition.
- Scalp Health: A well-moisturized scalp promotes overall hair health, which is essential for maintaining curly hair. Hydrating shampoos often contain ingredients that soothe and nourish the scalp, reducing dryness and irritation that can affect hair growth and curl vitality.
- Strength and Resilience: Moisturizing shampoos contribute to the strength and resilience of curly hair by preventing breakage. When curls are well-hydrated, they are less prone to brittleness and damage, which is vital for maintaining healthy, vibrant curls.
What Are the Top Recommended Sulfate-Free Shampoos for Curly Hair?
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo: This product is specifically formulated to combat the effects of humidity, which can lead to frizzy hair. It uses a unique blend of ingredients to cleanse hair while providing moisture, ensuring curls remain well-defined and manageable regardless of the weather.
Giovanni 50:50 Balanced Hydrating-Clarifying Shampoo: This shampoo offers a dual benefit by both hydrating and clarifying, making it suitable for curly hair that may accumulate product buildup. Its sulfate-free formula helps maintain moisture while effectively cleaning the hair and scalp, promoting healthier curls.
Which Brands Are Known for Quality Curly Hair Care?
Several brands are recognized for their quality curly hair care products, particularly those offering shampoos without sulfates.
- DevaCurl: Known for its commitment to curly hair, DevaCurl offers a range of sulfate-free shampoos designed specifically for enhancing and maintaining curly textures.
- SheaMoisture: This brand incorporates natural ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil in its sulfate-free formulas, providing moisture and nourishment to dry, curly hair.
- Ouidad: Specializing in curly hair products, Ouidad’s sulfate-free shampoos are formulated to cleanse without stripping natural oils, promoting healthy curls.
- Briogeo: With a focus on clean ingredients, Briogeo’s sulfate-free shampoos utilize botanical extracts to hydrate and define curls while avoiding harsh chemicals.
- CURLS: This brand is dedicated to curly hair care and offers sulfate-free options that help to detangle and moisturize curls, making them manageable and bouncy.
DevaCurl is highly regarded in the curly hair community, featuring products that enhance curl definition and minimize frizz without using sulfates that can be harsh on curls. Their formulas are often praised for their ability to maintain moisture levels, which is crucial for curly hair health.
SheaMoisture stands out for its commitment to natural and organic ingredients, making its sulfate-free shampoos ideal for those looking to nourish their curls with rich, hydrating components. The brand’s focus on sustainability and social responsibility also resonates with many consumers.
Ouidad offers a specialized approach to curly hair care, with sulfate-free shampoos that are designed to cleanse without disrupting the natural curl pattern. Their products often include unique ingredients that help to enhance curl shape and bounce.
Briogeo emphasizes clean beauty, ensuring that their sulfate-free shampoos are free from harmful additives while still being effective in cleansing and moisturizing. Their commitment to using high-quality, plant-derived ingredients makes them a popular choice among curly hair enthusiasts.
CURLS is dedicated exclusively to the needs of curly hair, and their sulfate-free shampoos are formulated to provide moisture and slip, making it easier to detangle and style curls. Their products are often infused with natural oils and extracts that promote healthy curl formation and shine.
What Do User Reviews Reveal About These Products?
User reviews provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and satisfaction levels of various shampoos designed for curly hair without sulfates.
- Moisture Retention: Many reviews highlight how sulfate-free shampoos help maintain moisture levels in curly hair, which is often prone to dryness. Users report that these products effectively cleanse without stripping natural oils, leading to softer and more manageable curls.
- Frizz Control: A significant number of users mention how sulfate-free shampoos contribute to reducing frizz. Reviews often note that the gentle formulation helps to smooth the hair cuticle, resulting in defined curls that are less frizzy, especially in humid conditions.
- Scalp Health: Consumers frequently discuss the benefits of sulfate-free shampoos for scalp health. Many find that these products are less irritating and help maintain a balanced scalp environment, reducing issues like itchiness or dandruff.
- Ingredient Transparency: Reviews often emphasize the importance of ingredient transparency in sulfate-free shampoos. Users appreciate being able to read and understand the ingredients, often opting for those that include natural oils and botanical extracts for additional nourishment.
- Performance on Color-Treated Hair: For those with color-treated curls, user feedback commonly indicates that sulfate-free shampoos are gentler and help preserve color vibrancy. Many reviews suggest that these shampoos prevent fading and maintain the integrity of the hair while still providing adequate cleansing.
- Price Point: Many reviews also touch upon the price range of sulfate-free shampoos for curly hair. Users often compare budget-friendly options with high-end brands, discussing value for money in relation to performance and results.
How Can You Effectively Incorporate Sulfate-Free Shampoo into Your Hair Care Routine?
Incorporating sulfate-free shampoo into your hair care routine can help maintain the health and vibrancy of curly hair.
- Choose the Right Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Look for products specifically formulated for curly hair that contain nourishing ingredients.
- Pre-Wash Treatment: Consider using a pre-wash treatment to enhance moisture retention and prepare your curls for cleansing.
- Gentle Cleansing Technique: Use a gentle cleansing technique to avoid frizz and breakage while washing your hair.
- Follow with Conditioner: Always follow up with a hydrating conditioner to lock in moisture and enhance curl definition.
- Adjust Washing Frequency: Determine the appropriate washing frequency for your hair type to prevent dryness while keeping curls fresh.
Choose the Right Sulfate-Free Shampoo: When selecting a sulfate-free shampoo, prioritize those that include hydrating and natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or shea butter. These ingredients help to retain moisture, which is crucial for curly hair that tends to be drier and more prone to frizz.
Pre-Wash Treatment: Applying a pre-wash treatment can significantly improve the moisture levels in your curls before shampooing. Products like oils or deep conditioners can be applied to dry hair and left for a specified time to prepare your hair for cleansing, ensuring that it doesn’t strip away essential oils.
Gentle Cleansing Technique: While using sulfate-free shampoo, it’s important to employ a gentle cleansing technique by massaging the shampoo into your scalp rather than aggressively scrubbing. This helps to maintain the integrity of your curls and prevents damage or unnecessary frizz.
Follow with Conditioner: After washing with sulfate-free shampoo, always apply a rich conditioner that is designed for curly hair. This step is critical for replenishing moisture and ensuring that your curls remain defined and bouncy, as conditioner helps to detangle and soften hair strands.
Adjust Washing Frequency: Find the right balance in washing frequency based on your hair’s needs; some may need to wash their curls once a week, while others may find that washing every few days works best. This adjustment helps avoid over-drying your hair while keeping it clean and refreshed, which is essential for maintaining healthy curls.
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