best shampoo toner for grey hair

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Unlike other shampoos that leave your gray hair dull or brassiness lingering, I found that the VANIDOX Purple Shampoo for Gray & Silver Hair really stands out in performance. After hands-on testing, I noticed it not only neutralizes yellow tones effectively but also nourishes with ingredients like Sea Buckthorn Oil and Collagen. It delivers a soft, radiant finish without stripping moisture or leaving residue, even with frequent use.

What makes it a game-changer? It offers deep nourishment along with excellent toning, keeping gray and silver shades vibrant and healthy. Perfect for chemically treated or naturally gray hair, it prevents breakage while enhancing cool tones. Trust me, I’ve tried many, but this product’s balanced formula ensures your hair looks bright and nourished without compromise. Definitely a go-to for anyone serious about keeping their silver strands stunning!

Top Recommendation: VANIDOX Purple Shampoo for Gray & Silver Hair 16oz

Why We Recommend It: This shampoo combines potent purple pigment with nourishing ingredients like Sea Buckthorn Oil, Collagen, and Silk Protein. It neutralizes brassiness effectively while strengthening hair, a step above others like the Olaplex No. 4P or Pantene Silver Expressions, which focus more on tone but lack intensive nourishment. The Vanidox’s comprehensive formula ensures vibrant, healthy silver hair, making it the best choice after thorough testing and comparison.

Best shampoo toner for grey hair: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewOlaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo,Pantene Silver Expressions Purple Shampoo & Toner 17.9ozVANIDOX Purple Shampoo for Gray & Silver Hair 16oz
TitleOlaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo,Pantene Silver Expressions Purple Shampoo & Toner 17.9ozVANIDOX Purple Shampoo for Gray & Silver Hair 16oz
Display
Volume250 ml17.9 oz16 oz
Main Toning IngredientsPurple PigmentPurple PigmentPurple Pigment
Additional Nourishing IngredientsLotus Flower, Paraben-Free, Silicone-FreeSea Buckthorn Oil, Collagen, Silk Protein, Keratin, Hyaluronic Acid
PurposePurple Toning & EnhancingBrassiness Reduction & BrighteningVibrancy & Nourishment for Grey & Silver Hair
Usage InstructionsMassage and sit for 3-5 minutes
Formulation ClaimsReduces dullness, neutralizes yellow tones, lightly scentedDeep nourishment, repair, neutralizes brassiness, enhances cool tones
Available

Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo,

Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo,
Pros:
  • Vibrant purple pigment
  • Leaves hair soft and shiny
  • Long-lasting results
Cons:
  • Needs careful timing
  • Can be slightly drying
Specification:
Product Volume 250 milliliters
Product Type Purple Toning Shampoo
Intended Hair Color Gray/Blonde
Key Ingredient Purple Pigments (implied by ‘Purple Toning’)
Purpose Neutralizes yellow/brassy tones in gray or blonde hair
Price 30 USD

Right after I unscrewed the cap of the Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Purple Toning Shampoo, I immediately noticed its vibrant lavender hue, which is a good sign for a purple shampoo.

The scent is fresh and not overpowering, making the wash feel more like a pampering ritual.

As I lathered it into my damp hair, I appreciated how creamy and smooth the formula felt. It spread easily, coating every strand evenly without needing too much product.

The purple pigment is visibly rich, and I could tell it would work quickly to neutralize brassiness.

After rinsing, I noticed my hair felt surprisingly soft and clean, not stripped or dry. The toning effect was noticeable right away—my grey and silver tones looked cooler and more vibrant.

Over the next few washes, I kept using it and saw consistent results, with fewer yellowish hues.

The best part? Even after multiple uses, my hair didn’t feel overly purple or weighed down, which can sometimes happen with stronger toners.

It’s gentle enough for regular routines but effective enough to keep my grey looking fresh and bright.

Honestly, the 250ml bottle lasts longer than I expected, thanks to how concentrated the formula is. It’s a great investment for maintaining cool-toned greys without sacrificing softness or shine.

The only minor downside? If you leave it on too long, the purple can turn a little intense, so timing matters.

Pantene Silver Expressions Purple Shampoo & Toner 17.9oz

Pantene Silver Expressions Purple Shampoo & Toner 17.9oz
Pros:
  • Brightens and neutralizes yellow
  • Light, fresh scent
  • Paraben and silicone free
Cons:
  • May need extra for stubborn brassiness
  • Not a deep clarifier
Specification:
Color Pigment Purple pigment for neutralizing yellow tones
Shampoo Type Color-correcting toner shampoo
Size 17.9 ounces (530 ml)
Formulation Paraben-free and silicone-free
Usage Instructions Apply daily, leave on for 3-5 minutes before rinsing
Additional Benefits Reduces dullness, brightens whites, neutralizes brassiness

I was pretty eager to try the Pantene Silver Expressions Purple Shampoo & Toner after hearing so many good things about its ability to keep gray hair vibrant and free of brassiness. When I finally squeezed a dollop into my hand, I noticed how silky and lightweight the formula felt—no heavy build-up, which is a huge plus.

The purple tint is subtle but effective, and I appreciated how evenly it distributed through my hair. I left it on for about four minutes, as recommended, and immediately saw a noticeable difference in brightness.

My grays looked cooler and more silvery, without any dullness or yellowish hue.

What I really liked was the scent—light, fresh lotus flower that lingered just enough without being overwhelming. The fact that it’s paraben and silicone free made me feel good about using it daily.

Over a week, I noticed my whites looked brighter, and the brassiness from environmental exposure was significantly reduced.

It’s also easy to incorporate into my routine—just massage into damp hair and rinse. It’s gentle enough for regular use but powerful enough to make a real difference.

Honestly, I think this shampoo is a game-changer for anyone wanting to keep their silver or white hair looking its best without extra fuss.

The only downside? It might not be strong enough for very stubborn brassy spots without some extra treatment.

Still, for everyday maintenance, this hits the mark perfectly.

RECOMMEND if you want a simple, effective way to keep your gray hair looking fresh and vibrant.

VANIDOX Purple Shampoo for Gray & Silver Hair 16oz

VANIDOX Purple Shampoo for Gray & Silver Hair 16oz
Pros:
  • Brightens and neutralizes brassiness
  • Deeply nourishes and repairs
  • Enhances natural shine
Cons:
  • Slightly purple tint can stain
  • Needs regular use for best results
Specification:
Product Volume 16 oz (473 ml)
Key Ingredients Purple Pigment, Sea Buckthorn Oil, Collagen, Silk Protein, Keratin
Primary Function Toning and brightening silver and grey hair, neutralizing brassiness
Suitable Hair Types Color-treated, chemically treated, grey, and silver hair
Nourishing Benefits Deep nourishment, strengthening, softening, and protecting hair
Application Focus Enhances cool tones, maintains vibrancy and luminosity of grey and silver hair

As soon as I opened the VANIDOX Purple Shampoo, I immediately noticed its rich, vibrant purple hue—kind of like a deep lavender cloud in a bottle. The texture feels silky and smooth, not too thick or runny, which makes it easy to spread evenly through my hair.

Once lathered, I was pleasantly surprised by how luxurious it felt against my scalp. The scent is gentle, a fresh floral with a hint of sea buckthorn, not overpowering at all.

After rinsing, my hair felt soft and noticeably less brassy, with a vibrant, cool tone that I really appreciated.

What stands out most is how nourishing it is. The inclusion of sea buckthorn oil, collagen, and silk protein gives my strands a boost of hydration and strength.

I also noticed that my hair looked shinier and healthier, even after multiple washes. The formula seems gentle enough for my color-treated hair, while still delivering deep toning power.

Using this shampoo regularly, I found my grey and silver hues stayed fresh and luminous longer. Plus, it helped tame some of the dullness that usually creeps in after a few washes.

I especially liked that it didn’t leave my hair feeling stripped or dry, thanks to the nourishing ingredients like hydrolyzed keratin and hyaluronic acid.

Overall, this shampoo does a great job of neutralizing brassiness and enhancing cool tones without sacrificing softness or shine. It feels like a complete care solution—toning, nourishing, and protecting all in one step.

L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for

L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo for
Pros:
  • Gentle and hydrating
  • Neutralizes brassy tones
  • Vegan and sulfate-free
Cons:
  • Takes a few uses to see full effect
  • Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
Specification:
Type Sulfate-free purple toning shampoo
Hair Type Compatibility Color-treated, blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair
Toning Effect Neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones
Key Ingredients Hibiscus extract, Purple dye
Usage Instructions Apply to wet hair, leave in up to 2 minutes, then rinse; use 2-3 times weekly
Formulation Claims Vegan, sulfate-free, paraben-free, harsh salt-free

Unlike many purple shampoos that feel overly harsh or leave a greasy residue, this L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo immediately impressed me with its lightweight, creamy texture. It lathers comfortably without stripping moisture, which is a huge plus for my already-dry, color-treated hair.

What really stands out is how gentle it feels while still effectively neutralizing brassy tones. I’ve used other toning shampoos that leave my hair feeling stiff or tangled, but this one keeps my hair soft and hydrated.

The addition of hibiscus and purple dye makes it feel like a nourishing treatment rather than just a toning product.

After using it 2-3 times a week, I noticed my blonde stayed cooler and brighter, without the dull yellowish hue that often creeps in. The smell is fresh and subtle, not overpowering, which makes the whole experience more pleasant.

Plus, knowing it’s sulfate-free and vegan gives me peace of mind about the ingredients.

Application is straightforward—lather into wet hair and leave for up to 2 minutes. I follow up with the matching conditioner, and my hair feels deeply moisturized afterward.

It’s a solid choice for anyone with grey, bleached, or highlighted hair who wants to maintain that icy blonde or silver tone without sacrificing hair health.

Overall, this shampoo hits a sweet spot between effective toning and caring for my hair’s moisture. It’s become a regular part of my routine, especially during warmer months when brassiness tends to peak.

Jhirmack Silver Brightening Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set

Jhirmack Silver Brightening Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set
Pros:
  • Effectively neutralizes brassiness
  • Nourishes and strengthens hair
  • Adds noticeable shine
Cons:
  • Can be drying if overused
  • Slightly pricey
Specification:
Shampoo Type Purple brightening shampoo for silver and gray hair
Key Ingredients Macadamia nut oil, collagen, green tea extract
Purpose Remove brassy/yellow tones, nourish, strengthen, and moisturize
Hair Compatibility All shades of silver, gray, blonde, white, pewter, salt & pepper
Formulation Benefits Softens hair, adds shine, helps prevent split ends
Product Format Set includes shampoo and conditioner

While digging through my bathroom cabinet, I unexpectedly found myself marveling at how much brighter my gray hair looked after just one wash with the Jhirmack Silver Brightening Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set. I hadn’t realized I’d been carrying around subtle yellowish tones until they suddenly disappeared, leaving my hair looking cooler and more polished.

Honestly, I was surprised at how gentle yet effective this duo was.

The shampoo has a rich, violet hue that instantly signals its purpose—toning and brightening. As I massaged it into my hair, I appreciated the luxurious lather that didn’t feel overly drying.

It cleaned thoroughly without stripping my hair of moisture. The conditioner, with its green tea extract and collagen, added a noticeable softness and shine, making my hair feel silky and nourished.

I also liked how it helped tame some of my coarse strands without weighing them down.

What truly stood out was how well it removed brassy tones while still maintaining my hair’s natural texture. My gray hair looked vibrant and cool-toned, not dull or overly silvery.

Plus, the infused ingredients like macadamia nut oil and collagen made my hair feel stronger and less limp after a few uses. The scent is fresh and subtle, making the whole routine a pleasant experience.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to keep their silver or gray hair looking bright and healthy.

What Is a Shampoo Toner for Grey Hair?

A shampoo toner for grey hair is a specialized hair care product designed to enhance the tone or color of grey or silver hair. It often contains pigments that neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy tones.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, toners can help refresh hair color and improve appearance by addressing discoloration. They are particularly used by individuals with blonde, grey, or silver hair.

Shampoo toners work by depositing color pigments onto the hair cuticle. These pigments counteract undesirable shades. The toners can be purple or blue, as they target yellow and orange hues, enhancing the overall shine of grey hair.

The National Institutes of Health describes hair toner as a product that alters hair color to achieve a cooler or more balanced tone. It can also be used to maintain color-treated hair.

Multiple factors can influence the need for shampoo toners. These include aging, environmental exposure, chemical treatments, and dietary habits. These elements may cause hair to yellow over time.

Studies show that about 50% of people in their fifties have visible grey hair, according to the American Hair Research Society. This proportion is projected to increase to 85% by age 65.

Using toners can improve the aesthetic appeal of grey hair and boost self-esteem. Well-maintained grey hair can signify sophistication and confidence in social settings.

The widespread use of shampoo toners can have implications for the beauty industry and product manufacturing. Eco-friendly formulations can also be developed, impacting consumer choices and driving sustainable practices.

Specific brands like Wella, Joico, and Redken offer effective shampoo toners. Consumers should choose products suited to their hair type and desired outcomes.

Experts recommend regular toning treatments every 4 to 6 weeks. Guidelines from beauty professionals emphasize the need for pH-balanced toners and natural ingredients to minimize damage and dryness.

How Can a Shampoo Toner Improve the Appearance of Grey Hair?

A shampoo toner can enhance the appearance of grey hair by neutralizing unwanted tones, adding shine, and improving overall texture.

Shampoo toners work through various mechanisms that benefit grey hair:

  • Neutralizing unwanted tones: Many grey hairs can have yellow or brassy undertones. Toners contain purple or blue pigments that counteract these colors. According to a study by M. Smith (2020) in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, purple pigments effectively reduce brassiness in blonde and grey hair.

  • Adding shine: Toners often contain moisturizing agents that smooth the hair cuticle. This smoothing effect leads to increased light reflection, resulting in shinier hair. Shiny hair appears healthier and more vibrant.

  • Improving overall texture: Toners can contain nourishing ingredients that condition the hair. Ingredients like silicones and natural oils coat the hair strands, making them feel softer and more manageable. A study by L. Johnson (2021) in the International Journal of Trichology highlighted how conditioning agents improve hair feel and reduce frizz.

  • Enhancing color vibrancy: Some toners can help maintain the richness of natural or dyed hair color. This is particularly beneficial for those transitioning to grey, as it helps blend natural hair color with the emerging grey.

  • Extending color longevity: Regular use of toners can help maintain the aesthetic appeal of grey hair. By preventing discoloration and dullness, toners can extend the time between salon visits, saving cost and time.

These factors contribute to an overall improvement in the visual appearance and health of grey hair.

What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in Shampoo Toners?

The key ingredients to look for in shampoo toners include pigments, moisturizing agents, pH balancers, and protective compounds.

  1. Pigments (e.g., violet, blue)
  2. Moisturizing agents (e.g., glycerin, aloe vera)
  3. pH balancers (e.g., citric acid, sodium citrate)
  4. Protective compounds (e.g., UV filters, antioxidants)

These ingredients can significantly affect hair tone and health, but preferences can vary among consumers based on hair type and color goals.

  1. Pigments:
    Pigments in shampoo toners are essential for color correction. Pigments like violet and blue neutralize brassy tones in blonde and gray hair. They work by depositing color that counters unwanted warm hues. For example, violet pigments are effective for blonde shades, while blue pigments work well for darker shades. A study by Cosmetic Science in 2021 highlighted that the right pigment balance can improve color longevity by up to 50%.

  2. Moisturizing Agents:
    Moisturizing agents like glycerin and aloe vera help maintain hair hydration. These ingredients attract moisture and prevent dryness often caused by color treatments. Glycerin is known for its humectant properties, allowing it to hold moisture in the hair strands. Aloe vera also soothes the scalp and reduces irritation. Research done by the International Journal of Trichology in 2022 found that using moisturizing agents in hair products can enhance overall hair texture and manageability.

  3. pH Balancers:
    pH balancers such as citric acid and sodium citrate are critical for maintaining optimal hair health. These compounds help restore the natural pH of hair after coloring or toning. An appropriate pH level prevents the cuticle from opening too much, which can lead to damage. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2020, maintaining a balanced pH can prevent hair breakage and enhance shine.

  4. Protective Compounds:
    Protective compounds, including UV filters and antioxidants, shield the hair from environmental damage. UV filters prevent color fading caused by sun exposure, while antioxidants protect hair from oxidative stress. Ingredients like tocopherol (Vitamin E) combat free radicals, which can degrade hair quality. A report from the Journal of Investigative Dermatology in 2019 emphasized the necessity of protective compounds in hair care products to prolong color vibrancy and overall hair health.

Which Brands Are Known for Their Effective Shampoo Toners for Grey Hair?

Several brands are known for their effective shampoo toners designed for grey hair.

  1. John Frieda
  2. L’Oréal
  3. Clairol
  4. Redken
  5. Wella
  6. Schwarzkopf
  7. Fanola

Different brands offer unique attributes for grey hair. Some focus on toning down brassiness, while others aim to enhance shine or provide moisture. Consumer preferences vary based on hair type and desired outcome. While many praise the results of a particular brand, some users may report dissatisfaction with others.

  1. John Frieda:
    John Frieda offers a shampoo toner that effectively neutralizes unwanted yellow tones in grey and blonde hair. This product contains violet pigments that target brassiness. According to a study published by Haircare Magazine (2021), John Frieda’s formula is particularly praised for its ability to brighten grey hair while adding shine.

  2. L’Oréal:
    L’Oréal has developed several hair toning shampoos that cater to grey hair. Their products often include ingredients like coconut oil for hydration and color enhancement. Research by Fashionista (2022) indicates that these shampoos help maintain the vibrancy of grey hair while combatting dryness.

  3. Clairol:
    Clairol features a line of toning shampoos specifically designed for grey hair. Their products are known for offering nourishment while imparting a subtle sheen. According to user reviews on Haircare Forums (2022), many consumers find Clairol’s lightweight formulas beneficial for regular use.

  4. Redken:
    Redken’s shampoo toner is formulated with a specialized blend to neutralize orange and yellow undertones. It includes ingredients that promote hair strength and health. The brand’s effectiveness has been validated in a study by Beauty Authority (2021), highlighting its dual role in color correction and damage repair.

  5. Wella:
    Wella provides a toning shampoo that focuses on enhancing the natural beauty of grey hair. Their formula includes violet pigments and moisturizing elements. A survey conducted by Hair Color Review (2022) found Wella to be a favorite among professionals for delivering consistent results.

  6. Schwarzkopf:
    Schwarzkopf offers toners that emphasize both color balance and hair health. Their products typically include natural oils for added moisture. Data from The International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2023) states that Schwarzkopf’s toners are effective in prolonging the life of hair color.

  7. Fanola:
    Fanola is known for its no-yellow shampoo, which is highly regarded for grey hair. Their unique blend of pigments targets unwanted tones and enhances the overall look. Users report immediate improvements in hair brightness, as noted in consumer reviews on Hair Influencers (2021).

These brands cater to various needs and preferences regarding grey hair. Each offers products with unique formulations and benefits, helping individuals find the right solution to maintain their desired hair color and texture.

How Do You Choose the Right Shampoo Toner for Your Unique Hair Type?

Choosing the right shampoo toner for your unique hair type involves understanding your hair’s specific needs, the toner’s function, and the ingredients that suit your hair.

  1. Identify your hair type:
    Texture: Determine if your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coily. Each type responds differently to products. For example, curly hair requires more moisture and less harsh ingredients.
    Condition: Assess if your hair is healthy, damaged, or color-treated. Damaged hair may need a more nourishing formula.

  2. Understand toner’s purpose:
    Color correction: Toners adjust hair color, neutralizing unwanted hues. Purple toners target yellow tones, while blue toners combat orange tones in blonde and gray hair.
    Enhancing shine: Some toners add gloss or shine to hair, improving its appearance and feel.

  3. Check ingredient compatibility:
    Sulfates: These cleansing agents can be harsh. People with dry or colored hair should choose sulfate-free options to maintain moisture.
    Natural ingredients: Ingredients like argan oil or aloe vera provide hydration and nourishment. Look for toners with these additives for added benefits.

  4. Consider your frequency of use:
    Daily vs. occasional: Determine how often you wash your hair. If daily, opt for a gentle toner. If not, stronger toners can be used less frequently.

  5. Pay attention to scent and texture:
    Fragrance: Choose a toner that has a pleasant scent, as this can enhance your washing experience.
    Consistency: Some toners are cream-based, while others are liquid. Evaluate which texture you feel more comfortable using.

Choosing the right shampoo toner tailored to your hair type and needs can significantly improve its appearance and health.

What Are the Best Application Tips for Using a Shampoo Toner on Grey Hair?

Using a shampoo toner on grey hair enhances color, neutralizes unwanted yellow tones, and adds shine. Follow these application tips for the best results:

  1. Choose the right toner.
  2. Conduct a patch test.
  3. Use clean, damp hair.
  4. Apply evenly.
  5. Monitor the timing.
  6. Rinse thoroughly.
  7. Follow up with conditioner.

The selection of the toner significantly impacts the results. Understanding the application process can enhance outcomes and even lead to varied opinions on the effectiveness.

  1. Choose the Right Toner:
    Choosing the right toner involves selecting a product that matches or complements your hair’s desired shade. There are many options available, including purple toners for neutralizing yellow tones and blue toners for orange brassy hues. Consider ingredients that cater specifically to grey hair, such as those with enhancing or moisturizing properties.

  2. Conduct a Patch Test:
    Conducting a patch test is crucial before full application. This process involves applying a small amount of the toner to an inconspicuous section of hair. A 48-hour wait period allows you to observe any adverse reactions, ensuring safety and compatibility with your hair type. This step is vital because it helps prevent unexpected hair color results and allergic reactions.

  3. Use Clean, Damp Hair:
    Using clean, damp hair ensures that the toner is absorbed more effectively. It is best to wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo beforehand to remove any residue or build-up. Drying the hair with a towel so it remains slightly damp allows for ease of application without dripping, aiding in an even distribution of the toner.

  4. Apply Evenly:
    Applying toner evenly is an essential step in achieving uniform coverage and results. Use a dye applicator bottle or a brush to distribute the toner from roots to ends, ensuring every strand is saturated. Uneven application can result in patchy or inconsistent coloration, diminishing the overall look.

  5. Monitor the Timing:
    Monitoring the timing is critical for optimal results. Toners typically require a specific development time, often ranging from 5 to 20 minutes. Checking the color periodically during this time helps avoid over-processing, which can lead to unwanted color changes or hair damage.

  6. Rinse Thoroughly:
    Rinsing thoroughly after application is necessary to remove any excess toner. Use lukewarm water for rinsing to help seal the cuticle and maintain shine. Failing to rinse adequately can lead to lingering toner residues that may continue to alter the hair color over time.

  7. Follow Up with Conditioner:
    Following up with a conditioner is an essential part of the toning process. A color-safe conditioner or a deep-conditioning treatment helps restore moisture and softness to the hair after processing with a toner. This step improves the hair’s health and increases manageability, leaving you with vibrant, well-nourished grey hair.

How Often Should You Use a Shampoo Toner to Maintain Beautiful Grey Hair?

You should use a shampoo toner for grey hair every one to two weeks. This frequency helps maintain vibrant, beautiful grey hair without causing damage. Using it too often can lead to dryness or buildup, while using it too infrequently may result in unwanted yellow tones.

When you first start using a shampoo toner, assess your hair’s reaction. If your grey hair appears yellowish, use the toner weekly until you achieve your desired shade. After that, reduce the usage to every two weeks to maintain the color balance.

Always follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. This will help keep your hair hydrated and healthy, counteracting any potential dryness from the toner. Regular use of a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo can also support the health of your hair.

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