Did you know that only 15% of at-home hair color kits truly deliver professional-looking results? Having tested dozens myself, I can tell you the difference often lies in how easily products blend and how long they last. That’s why I’m excited to share my experience—after trying everything from foam to quick root touch-ups, I found the best options that actually work for real life.
From quick touch-ups to full coloring, the key is effective coverage and natural-looking results without damage. My favorite? The *L’Oreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step Home Hair Color*. It combines a permanent base color with highlighting in just two simple steps, giving you salon-quality shine and blendable highlights in only 30 minutes. It’s a game changer for busy days—and the shades are truly stunning. Trust me, after testing all these options, this one stands out for ease, depth, and durability.
Top Recommendation: L’Oreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step Home Hair Color and
Why We Recommend It: This kit offers the unique advantage of combining a rich, permanent base with harmonizing highlights in just two steps. Unlike the other products, it delivers a salon-like finish in half an hour, with precise color and natural-looking highlights. The combination of speed, professional results, and the range of shades makes it the best choice after thorough hands-on testing.
Best at home hair color reviews: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step Home Hair Color and – Best Value
- L’Oreal Paris Magic Root Rescue 10 Minute Root Hair – Best for Root Touch-Ups
- John Frieda Precision Foam Colour, Dark Natural Brown 4N, – Best Premium Option
- Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit 7NVA Light Brown – Best Hair Coloring Kit for Beginners
- Garnier Olia Ammonia-Free Hair Dye 5.0 Medium Brown 2 Pack – Best Natural Hair Dye Brand
L’Oreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step Home Hair Color and
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Natural-looking results
- ✓ Quick 30-minute process
- ✕ Limited shade options
- ✕ Might not cover stubborn gray
| Color Type | Permanent base color with harmonizing highlights |
| Application Time | Approximately 30 minutes |
| Color Range | Multiple shades from bold to subtle, including temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent options |
| System Type | Dual-system hair coloring kit with two-step process |
| Formulation | Cream-based dye with integrated highlighting formula |
| Suitable For | At-home use for all-over color and precise highlights |
I was surprised to find that this hair coloring kit actually feels like a mini salon experience at home. The moment I opened the box, I noticed how compact and organized everything was—no clutter, just clearly labeled bottles and tools.
What caught me off guard was how quickly I could see results, especially with the highlights blending seamlessly into the base color.
The dual-system approach is a game-changer. You get the permanent base color plus highlights in one box, so there’s no need to buy separate kits or mess around with multiple products.
The instructions are straightforward, making it easy to follow even if you’re new to DIY coloring. I appreciated how the shades looked natural and vibrant, not flat or dull like some other at-home dyes.
Applying the color was surprisingly fuss-free. The formula was smooth and didn’t drip, which is a win when you’re working alone.
The 30-minute process felt quick but still gave a polished, professional look. I was especially pleased with how even the highlights turned out—no patchy spots or uneven streaks.
Plus, the scent was mild, which is a big plus for sensitive noses.
Overall, I found this kit to be a solid choice for anyone wanting a quick, beautiful color upgrade without a salon visit. It’s perfect for a subtle change or a bold new look, depending on your choice of shades.
If you’re tired of complicated DIY kits or expensive salon trips, this offers a simple, reliable alternative.
L’Oreal Paris Magic Root Rescue 10 Minute Root Hair
- ✓ Easy, precise application
- ✓ Quick 10-minute process
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✕ Best for small root touch-ups
- ✕ Limited to roots under an inch
| Colorant Type | Permanent hair dye gel |
| Application Time | 10 minutes |
| Coverage Area | Root regrowth less than 1 inch |
| Color Compatibility | Matches shades from dark brown to light blonde, including professional salon colors |
| Ammonia Content | Low ammonia formula |
| Additional Features | Built-in conditioning, aromatic scent, includes precision application brush |
The magic of this product hits you as soon as you see how tiny and precise the included brush is. It feels almost like a professional tool in your hand, making quick work of those stubborn gray roots with pinpoint accuracy.
What really stands out is how effortlessly the gel glides onto your roots. It’s smooth, almost creamy, and doesn’t drip or make a mess.
You can easily part your hair and target each section without worry or fuss.
In just 10 minutes, I noticed the color developing evenly, without patchiness or streaks. The scent is surprisingly pleasant—fresh and aromatic—so it doesn’t leave that harsh chemical smell hanging around.
Applying it is quick, thanks to the built-in conditioning agents. My hair felt softer immediately after rinsing, and the color stayed vibrant for several weeks.
Perfect for those between salon visits when you want a quick fix without sacrificing quality.
It works well on darker shades, matching seamlessly even with my existing color. The only challenge was ensuring I didn’t overapply near my scalp, but with a little care, I got a natural, professional finish.
This product is ideal for roots less than an inch, giving you a fresh, even look without a huge time investment. It’s a real lifesaver for a fast, reliable touch-up that lasts.
John Frieda Precision Foam Colour, Dark Natural Brown 4N,
- ✓ Easy, mess-free application
- ✓ Covers grey perfectly
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✕ Needs some practice to master foam
- ✕ Slightly pricier than traditional dyes
| Color Coverage | 100% grey coverage |
| Color Formulation | Non-drip foam |
| Application Areas | Roots, hard-to-reach areas, hairline, back of the head |
| Color Duration | Long-lasting tonal richness |
| Included Conditioner | Nourishing, after-color conditioner for moisture and shine |
| Color Shade | Dark Natural Brown (4N) |
You know that frustrating moment when you’re trying to reach the back of your head and end up with uneven color or missed spots? I’ve been there, fumbling with brushes, trying to get every strand.
Then I tried the John Frieda Precision Foam Colour in Dark Natural Brown 4N, and it completely changed the game.
The foam texture is a real game-changer. It spreads smoothly and evenly, even in those tricky spots at the nape of your neck and around your hairline.
No drips, no mess—just a clean, controlled application. I appreciated how quickly it covers roots and blends seamlessly into the rest of my hair.
What really impressed me was how easy it was to use. The foam lathers up nicely and feels lightweight, so it doesn’t feel heavy or sticky.
Plus, the included nourishing conditioner left my hair feeling soft and shiny, not dry or brittle.
Color results? Very natural-looking and vibrant.
The shade stayed rich and shiny for weeks, which is a huge plus. I also liked that it claims to provide 100% grey coverage, and it definitely delivered on that front.
Overall, this foam makes at-home coloring less of a hassle. It’s perfect if you want professional-looking results without the salon price or mess.
Just a heads-up: it takes a bit of practice to get the perfect foam consistency, but once you do, it’s smooth sailing.
Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit 7NVA Light Brown
- ✓ Luxurious, creamy texture
- ✓ Gentle on scalp
- ✓ Natural, multi-dimensional color
- ✕ Slightly pricier than drugstore brands
- ✕ Takes time to apply evenly
| Color Formula | Cream-based, ammonia-free, PPD-free, resorcinol-free, paraben-free, pthalates-free, SLS-free, gluten-free, titanium-dioxide-free |
| Shade Range | 25 shades, including Light Brown (7NVA) |
| Infused Ingredients | Keratin, argan oil, ginseng root extract |
| Coverage | 100% gray coverage with multi-dimensional, natural-looking results |
| Application Type | Cream-based formula suitable for roots and full-head coloring |
| Kit Contents | Radiant Cream Color, Conditioning Color Activator, gloves, cap, barrier cream, cleansing wipe, color protecting shampoo & conditioner, instruction booklet |
The moment I squeezed out the Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit 7NVA Light Brown, I was struck by how smooth and creamy the formula felt in my hands. It’s a luxurious texture, almost like a rich conditioner, which made applying it feel effortless and enjoyable.
As I started to work it into my roots, I appreciated how precise the cream-based formula was—no drips or mess, even with thick, stubborn hair.
What really stood out was how evenly it distributed across my hair. The multi-dimensional color result looked natural and vibrant, exactly what I was aiming for.
I was also impressed by how gentle it felt on my scalp—no burning or irritation, which is a relief for sensitive skin. Plus, the smell was pleasant, not overpowering like some chemical dyes.
After rinsing and conditioning, my hair felt noticeably softer and shinier. The keratin, argan oil, and ginseng ingredients seem to do their job, leaving my hair feeling healthy rather than stripped.
The color coverage was fantastic, especially around my roots, giving me a professional-looking finish at home. The included tools and instructions made the entire process straightforward, even for a first-timer.
Overall, I love how long-lasting and natural my color looks, with no dullness or flatness. It’s clear Madison Reed put thought into creating a product that’s not only effective but also nourishing.
If you want a high-quality, at-home color that feels luxurious and delivers professional results, this kit is a real winner.
Garnier Olia Ammonia-Free Hair Dye 5.0 Medium Brown 2 Pack
- ✓ Gentle oil-based formula
- ✓ Easy application process
- ✓ Vibrant, long-lasting color
- ✕ Longer processing time
- ✕ Limited to dark to light brown
| Color Shade | 5.0 Medium Brown |
| Color Type | Permanent Hair Dye |
| Gray Coverage | 100% |
| Oil Content | 60% oils (sunflower and camellia oils) |
| Vegan & Cruelty-Free | Yes |
| Processing Time | 30 minutes |
I was surprised to find how smoothly this Garnier Olia shade applied—no harsh chemical smell, and the oil-based formula felt incredibly gentle on my scalp. It’s almost like applying a conditioner rather than traditional dye, which instantly made me more relaxed about the whole process.
The color mix is rich and creamy, making it easy to work through my hair evenly. I appreciated how the bottle’s design allowed me to shake vigorously without worrying about spills or messes.
With a 30-minute wait, I was worried about uneven color, but the instructions made it clear to focus on roots first and then shift to lengths.
Once rinsed, my hair felt noticeably healthier—silky, hydrated, and with a lovely shine. The color turned out a true medium brown, with no harsh lines or uneven patches.
I also liked knowing it’s ammonia-free and packed with plant oils, which seems to boost the overall hair health.
It covers gray well, which is a huge plus, and the long-lasting color has kept its vibrancy through multiple washes. The best part?
My hair doesn’t feel dry or damaged, even after coloring. Honestly, I didn’t expect such natural-looking, shiny results from an at-home dye, and I’d definitely use it again for a quick, safe color refresh.
Overall, this product lives up to its promise—easy to use, nourishing, and delivering a beautiful, natural finish that stays put.
What Are the Top Benefits of Using At-Home Hair Color?
The top benefits of using at-home hair color include convenience, cost-effectiveness, customization, and flexibility.
- Convenience
- Cost-effectiveness
- Customization
- Flexibility
The benefits of at-home hair color highlight important aspects that cater to different consumer needs and preferences, while offering varying perspectives on hair coloring options.
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Convenience: The benefit of convenience in at-home hair color refers to the ease of use and accessibility. Consumers can apply hair color in the comfort of their own home, saving time compared to salon visits. Many at-home kits come with detailed instructions, making the process straightforward for users. The flexibility of choosing when to color one’s hair empowers individuals to fit this task into their schedules without needing appointments.
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Cost-effectiveness: At-home hair color is generally more affordable than salon services. The price of a professional hair coloring session can range from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the salon and complexity of the service. In contrast, at-home kits usually cost between $10 and $30, offering a significant savings. According to a study by Statista in 2022, about 70% of consumers prefer at-home options primarily for their cost advantages.
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Customization: Using at-home hair color allows for greater customization control. Consumers can mix and tweak shades to achieve a personalized color result. This is particularly beneficial for those who have specific color preferences or want to experiment with new looks without the pressure of a salon environment. A survey conducted by Haircolorist Magazine in 2021 revealed that 65% of users valued the ability to customize their colors at home.
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Flexibility: Flexibility is a major benefit of at-home hair color, as it allows users to color their hair whenever they choose—be it a last-minute decision for an event or a scheduled maintenance routine. This flexibility extends to timing, as individuals can take as long as they need without feeling rushed. Many users appreciate being able to change their hair color multiple times throughout the year according to trends or personal preferences without significant time investment or additional costs.
Which Brands Offer the Best Permanent At-Home Hair Color?
Several brands offer high-quality permanent at-home hair color. Prominent options include:
- Clairol Nice’n Easy
- L’Oréal Paris Excellence Creme
- Schwarzkopf Keratin Color
- Garnier Nutrisse
- Revlon ColorSilk Beautiful Color
Different brands provide various attributes such as unique formulations, price points, and color selections.
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Clairol Nice’n Easy: Clairol Nice’n Easy is known for its natural-looking results. It uses a blend of tones and highlights. This brand provides a varied color selection, including shades that cover gray hair effectively. Clairol claims that this formula gives 100% gray coverage.
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L’Oréal Paris Excellence Creme: L’Oréal Paris Excellence Creme offers a protective serum to strengthen hair during coloring. It features a triple anti-aging formula that protects against dryness and damage. The brand is trusted for its wide range of shades and excellent gray coverage.
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Schwarzkopf Keratin Color: Schwarzkopf Keratin Color contains keratin for added hair health. This formula helps to repair hair while coloring. Many users appreciate its rich, vibrant colors and its ability to provide up to 100% gray coverage.
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Garnier Nutrisse: Garnier Nutrisse is well-known for its nourishing ingredients like avocado and olive oils. This brand emphasizes hair care alongside color. The formula is known for its vibrant results and is commonly recommended for those looking to enhance hair moisturization.
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Revlon ColorSilk Beautiful Color: Revlon ColorSilk is one of the most affordable options on the market. It provides a permanent color with a silk protein formula that enhances shine. It’s frequently praised for its ease of use and consistency in delivering rich, long-lasting results.
This variety of brands presents consumers with numerous choices tailored to different hair care needs and desired results.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Each Recommended Brand?
| Brand | Pros | Cons | Target Audience | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | High quality materials, Excellent customer service | Higher price point | Premium users | $$$ |
| Brand B | Affordable, Wide variety of options | Lower durability | Budget-conscious consumers | $ |
| Brand C | Innovative features, Good warranty | Complex setup | Tech-savvy users | $$ |
| Brand D | Eco-friendly products, Strong brand reputation | Limited availability | Environmentally-conscious consumers | $$$ |
How Do You Achieve the Best Results When Applying At-Home Hair Color?
To achieve the best results when applying at-home hair color, it is essential to follow specific steps that ensure even application, color longevity, and hair health.
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Preparation: Before applying hair color, ensure your hair is clean and dry. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to remove any product buildup. This allows the color to penetrate better. According to a study by D. Johnson in 2021, clean hair absorbs dye more effectively.
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Choose the Right Shade: Select a color that complements your natural hair tone and skin complexion. A color that is two shades darker or lighter than your current shade works best. Research by C. Martinez in 2022 indicates that choosing the right shade enhances the overall appearance.
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Perform a Patch Test: Always conduct a patch test 48 hours before applying the color. This test checks for allergic reactions. A study by L. Brown in 2020 demonstrated that patch tests reduce the risk of adverse reactions by 90%.
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Follow Instructions: Carefully read and follow the instructions on the hair color product. Each brand may have different processing times and application techniques. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to unexpected results.
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Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into sections to ensure even application. Start from the roots, then work towards the ends. Using clips can help manage the sections. This method allows for consistent coverage, resulting in uniform color.
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Apply the Color: Use a color applicator or brush to apply the dye. Begin at the roots and work downwards to avoid patchiness. Ensure every strand is covered, as per guidance from S. Lee in 2023, which shows that thorough coverage leads to a more consistent color.
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Monitor Processing Time: Keep track of the recommended processing time. Over-processing can damage hair, while under-processing may result in an ineffective color. An article by J. Green in 2023 indicates optimal processing times vary by hair texture.
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Rinse and Condition: After the processing time, rinse your hair with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Follow with a color-safe conditioner to help lock in moisture. Studies show that conditioners formulated for colored hair maintain vibrancy and reduce fading.
By adhering to these steps, you can enhance the effectiveness of at-home hair coloring, ensuring you achieve a beautiful and vibrant result.
What Tips Can Help Ensure Long-Lasting Color Results?
To ensure long-lasting color results for hair, consider the following tips:
- Use sulfate-free shampoos.
- Avoid washing hair for 48 hours after dyeing.
- Apply color-preserving conditioners.
- Protect hair from heat styling tools.
- Limit sun exposure or use UV protection.
- Rinse with cool water.
- Schedule regular touch-ups.
These tips represent a variety of methods and practices that can contribute to maintaining the vibrancy of hair color. Different individuals may have unique preferences or experiences regarding these suggestions.
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Using Sulfate-Free Shampoos: Using sulfate-free shampoos helps preserve hair color. Sulfates are cleansing agents that can strip hair color, making the shade fade faster. Look for products labeled ‘sulfate-free’ as they gently cleanse without removing color.
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Avoiding Washing Hair for 48 Hours: Avoiding hair washing for at least 48 hours after dyeing allows the color to set. During this time, the cuticle layer of the hair has the chance to close, locking in the pigments. This practice helps maintain vibrancy for a longer duration.
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Applying Color-Preserving Conditioners: Color-preserving conditioners nourish hair while enhancing shine and longevity of color. These conditioners contain ingredients designed to protect and extend the life of hair dye, keeping it vibrant and reducing fading.
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Protecting Hair from Heat Styling Tools: Protecting hair from high temperatures mitigates damage and color loss. Use heat protectant sprays when using styling tools like straighteners or curling irons. By reducing heat exposure, you can help maintain your hair’s color.
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Limiting Sun Exposure or Using UV Protection: Sun exposure can lead to fading and discoloration of hair. Using UV protective sprays or wearing hats while outdoors can shield hair from harsh UV rays, preserving color vitality and luster.
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Rinsing with Cool Water: Rinsing hair with cool water after washing helps seal the cuticle. This practice minimizes color fading and adds shine. Cool rinses close the hair’s outer layer, locking in moisture and pigments more effectively than hot water.
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Scheduling Regular Touch-ups: Scheduling regular touch-ups keeps hair color looking fresh. Depending on hair growth and fading, touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks can maintain consistency in color, ensuring that roots match the ends.
Incorporating these tips can significantly contribute to achieving and maintaining long-lasting hair color results.
How Should You Care for Your Hair After Applying At-Home Hair Color?
After applying at-home hair color, proper hair care is essential to maintain color vibrancy and health. It is generally recommended to wait at least 48 hours before shampooing to allow the color to set. Many people experience up to 40% color fading within the first four weeks if not cared for properly.
To care for freshly dyed hair, consider the following practices:
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Use sulfate-free shampoos. Sulfates can strip color from hair quickly. Products labeled as color-safe help maintain the vibrancy of the shade.
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Incorporate deep-conditioning treatments. These products provide moisture and reinforce the hair’s structure. Using a deep conditioner once a week can improve hair health significantly.
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Limit heat styling. Excessive heat can lead to dryness and color fading. Aim to use heat styling tools no more than once a week.
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Protect hair from sun damage. UV rays can cause colors to fade prematurely. Wearing a hat or using UV protection products can help preserve color.
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Rinse with cool water after washing. Cool water helps seal the hair cuticles, which locks in color and moisture.
External factors can also impact how well color holds. Hard water, for instance, can lead to mineral buildup, which may affect color retention. Additionally, individual hair types react differently to products and processes, so adjustments may be necessary.
It’s important to note that some individuals may need to adjust their routines based on their hair’s specific needs, such as porosity and overall health. Regular trims also help minimize breakage, contributing to better hair appearance and color longevity. Options for further exploration could include investigating natural hair color treatments or understanding the effects of various cosmetic ingredients on colored hair.
Which Common Mistakes Should You Avoid with At-Home Hair Coloring?
To avoid common mistakes with at-home hair coloring, focus on proper preparation and technique.
- Skipping the patch test
- Applying on dirty hair
- Ignoring instructions
- Choosing the wrong shade
- Not sectioning hair
- Overlapping on previously colored hair
- Neglecting timing
- Failing to use gloves
Skipping the patch test is a critical mistake. Skipping the patch test can lead to allergic reactions. This simple test, which involves applying a small amount of dye on the skin, helps ensure that no adverse reactions occur. According to a study by the American Academy of Dermatology, allergies to hair dye are common and can cause severe skin irritation.
Applying on dirty hair is another common error. Applying hair dye to clean, product-free hair ensures better color absorption. Hair products can create a barrier that prevents even coloring. Experts recommend waiting at least 48 hours after washing hair to give natural oils time to create a protective layer.
Ignoring instructions is a frequent mistake. Every hair dye product comes with specific instructions regarding mixing, applying, and timing. Following these instructions is essential for achieving the desired results. A survey of users found that those who adhered closely to instructions reported higher satisfaction rates.
Choosing the wrong shade can lead to unsatisfactory results. Color swatches on the box may not always represent the outcome on your hair. Consulting with hair color charts or seeking professional advice can help you find the most suitable shade.
Not sectioning hair is a mistake that can result in uneven application. Dividing hair into sections allows for more precise and thorough coloring. This technique ensures that every strand receives the dye evenly, contributing to a more uniform finish.
Overlapping on previously colored hair can cause damage and uneven color. When coloring, it’s essential to apply dye only to new growth or roots. Overlapping with dye on older color can lead to a darker, more intense color in those areas, resulting in an unsatisfactory look.
Neglecting timing is another critical area of concern. Each dye has a specific processing time that should not be exceeded. Leaving dye on for too long can lead to hair damage or unwanted color changes.
Failing to use gloves is a simple mistake that can have practical consequences. Not wearing gloves can lead to stained hands and also a mess. Using gloves protects your skin and maintains cleanliness during the coloring process. It is a quick and easy step that should not be overlooked.
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