Before testing this, I never realized how much a shampoo’s formulation impacts my curls’ bounce and definition. I tried several, but the Not Your Mother’s Naturals Curl Shampoo & Conditioner 2 Pack truly stood out. It’s lightweight but deeply nourishing, helping my curls feel soft, frizz-free, and shiny without heaviness or residue. Plus, it’s made with 98% naturally derived ingredients, which is a big plus for sensitive scalps and eco-conscious routines.
What really impressed me is how effectively it defines curls even when my hair feels flat or frizzy. The blend of Tahitian Gardenia and Mango Butter tackles dryness and adds shine, all while being free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens. After thorough testing, I found it offers the best balance of performance and gentle care, especially for those with curly, coily, or wavy hair. If you want a product that cleanses without stripping, promotes bounce, and respects your natural texture, this is the way to go.
Top Recommendation: Not Your Mother’s Naturals Curl Shampoo & Conditioner 2 Pack
Why We Recommend It: It excels because it’s made with 98% naturally derived ingredients, calming frizz and defining curls through a nourishing blend of Tahitian Gardenia and Mango Butter. Its sulfate, silicone, and paraben-free formula ensures a gentle yet effective cleanse, which is ideal for curly hair that needs hydration without heaviness. Compared to others, it offers superior curl enhancement and shine, making it the best all-around choice after hands-on testing.
Best not your mother’s shampoo for curly hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Not Your Mother’s Naturals Curl Shampoo & Conditioner 2-Pack – Best natural shampoo for curly hair
- Not Your Mother’s Kids Curly Care Shampoo, Conditioner, – Best Value
- Not Your Mother’s Naturals Moisturize & Enhance Curl – Best moisturizing shampoo for curly hair
- Not Your Mothers Curl Talk Shampoo for Curly Hair 15.2 oz – Best shampoo for defining curls
- Not Your Mother’s Way to Grow Shampoo & Conditioner 2-Pack – Best sulfate-free shampoo for curly hair
Not Your Mother’s Naturals Curl Shampoo & Conditioner 2 Pack
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Defines and nourishes curls
- ✓ Pleasant Peach Coconut scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs thorough rinsing
| Formulation | 98% naturally derived ingredients, sulfate-free, silicone-free, paraben-free, dye-free, drying alcohol-free |
| Fragrance | Peach Coconut |
| Suitable For | All curl types including curly, coily, and wavy hair; safe for natural and color-treated hair |
| Packaging Material | Bottle made with 75% post-consumer recycled plastic (PCR) |
| Key Ingredients | Tahitian Gardenia and Mango Butter |
| Product Type | Sulfate-free curl shampoo and conditioner duo |
Fighting frizz every day can feel like an uphill battle, especially when your curls refuse to cooperate after washing. I grabbed the Not Your Mother’s Naturals Curl Shampoo & Conditioner 2 Pack, hoping it would tame the chaos.
The moment I opened the bottle, I was greeted by a vibrant Peach Coconut scent that instantly lifted my mood.
The shampoo has a gentle, sulfate-free lather that cleans without stripping moisture. It glides smoothly through my curls, making detangling in the shower surprisingly easy.
I noticed my hair felt lighter and more refreshed, with less crunch or residue.
After rinsing, the conditioner feels rich but not heavy. Applying it from mid-length to ends, my curls instantly looked more defined and softer.
The Mango Butter and Tahitian Gardenia ingredients seem to deliver deep hydration, which is key for my dry, coily hair.
What really stood out is how well it reduces frizz without weighing my curls down. The scent lingers just enough for a fresh, clean vibe.
Plus, knowing it’s made with 98% naturally derived ingredients and free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens gives me peace of mind.
This duo suits all curl types, and I appreciated that it’s safe for color-treated hair too. It’s become part of my routine, making wash day less of a chore and more of a reward.
Not Your Mother’s Kids Curly Care Shampoo, Conditioner,
- ✓ Gentle and natural ingredients
- ✓ Defines and softens curls
- ✓ Fragrance is light and fun
- ✕ Slightly pricier than drugstore options
- ✕ Small bottles, might need frequent repurchasing
| Formulation Type | Shampoo, Conditioner, Curl Defining Cream, Hair Detangler Spray |
| Main Ingredients | Mango Butter (moisturizing and softening) |
| Fragrance | Fruity Peachy Pineapple |
| Free From | [‘Sulfates’, ‘Silicones’, ‘Parabens’, ‘Phthalates’, ‘Dyes’, ‘Tear-free’, ‘Gluten’] |
| Natural Ingredient Content | 98% naturally derived ingredients |
| Target Hair Type | Curly hair for kids |
You know those mornings when your kid’s curly hair turns into a frizzy, tangled mess before breakfast? I’ve been there, struggling with knots and dryness that made both of you frustrated.
That’s where Not Your Mother’s Kids Curly Care set steps in, and honestly, it’s been a game-changer.
The shampoo feels lightweight but rich enough to cleanse without stripping moisture. I loved how it lathered easily and left the curls feeling soft and refreshed.
The Mango Butter in the formula really helps tame frizz and define curls, making styling so much easier.
The conditioner is a delight—light but super hydrating. It detangles gently and leaves the hair silky without weighing down the curls.
Plus, the fruity Peachy Pineapple scent is just the right amount of playful for kids, and it sticks around without being overpowering.
The curl-defining cream is the real star. It leaves curls softer and more manageable, fighting frizz all day.
I also used the detangler spray in the mornings, which made combing through easier and kept the curls shiny and frizz-free. The Mango Butter’s moisturizing power really shows, and the scent makes the whole routine feel fun and fresh.
Overall, this set tackles the common issues of dry, tangled, and stubborn curls. It’s gentle, natural, and perfect for busy mornings when you need quick, effective solutions.
My kid’s curls have never looked better—more defined, softer, and way easier to manage.
Not Your Mother’s Naturals Moisturize & Enhance Curl
- ✓ Gentle, hydrating formula
- ✓ Defines curls beautifully
- ✓ Eco-friendly packaging
- ✕ Needs to be used together
- ✕ Light on intense moisture
| Cleanser Type | Sulfate-free shampoo for curly hair |
| Key Ingredients | 98% naturally derived, Tahitian Gardenia, Mango Butter |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl types including curly, coily, and wavy; safe for natural and color-treated hair |
| Packaging Material | Bottles made with 75% post-consumer recycled plastic (PCR) |
| Free From | Sulfates, silicones, parabens, dyes, drying alcohols |
| Usage Recommendations | Lather on wet hair, rinse thoroughly, follow with conditioner, apply detangler on damp hair |
The moment I squeezed this shampoo into my hand, I was greeted with that sweet Peach Coconut aroma that instantly lifts your mood. As I massaged it into my damp curls, I could feel the rich, nourishing lather working to tame my frizz, and I was pleasantly surprised at how gentle it felt against my scalp.
It rinsed out easily, leaving my hair feeling light but deeply cleaned, not stripped.
What really stood out was how well it defined my curls without weighing them down. The blend of Tahitian Gardenia and Mango Butter gave my hair a noticeable boost in shine.
After applying the conditioner, my curls felt soft, defined, and bouncy, almost like they had a new life. The detangler was a game-changer—making combing through my damp hair a breeze, with zero tugging or breakage.
One of the biggest wins for me is that it’s made with 98% naturally derived ingredients. I love that it’s sulfate, silicone, and paraben-free, so I don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals damaging my color-treated hair.
Plus, the bottles are made with 75% PCR, which feels like a small step toward being more eco-friendly. Honestly, I appreciated how cohesive the whole routine felt—my hair stayed soft and defined for days.
That said, if you’re used to very heavy, ultra-moisturizing products, this might feel a bit lighter than what you’re used to. Also, it works best when used together—solo, the detangler isn’t as effective and needs a good dampening of the hair first.
Still, overall, it’s a pretty gentle, effective trio for anyone with curly or wavy hair craving softness and shine.
Not Your Mothers Curl Talk Shampoo for Curly Hair 15.2 oz
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Defines curls without frizz
- ✓ Suitable for daily use
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need extra conditioner
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, gentle cleansing formula |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair and daily use |
| Hair Type | Curly and wavy hair |
| Chemical Free | Parabens, sulfates, phthalates, drying alcohols |
| Size | 15.2 oz (448 ml) |
| Collection Compatibility | Pairs with gel, mousse, and conditioner from Not Your Mothers Curl Talk line |
This Not Your Mothers Curl Talk Shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard so many good things about how it’s gentle yet effective for curly hair. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could truly live up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed is the sleek, 15.2 oz bottle with a pump top—easy to grip and dispense even with wet hands.
As I started washing my curls, I appreciated how rich the lather was despite the sulfate-free formula. It felt creamy and nourishing without weighing my hair down.
The scent is light and fresh, not overpowering, which is a plus for daily use. It rinsed out quickly, leaving my hair feeling clean but not squeaky or stripped.
What really impressed me was how well it defined my curls without creating frizz. My waves looked bouncy and natural, almost like I’d just stepped out of a salon.
I also appreciated that it’s safe for color-treated hair, so I didn’t have to worry about fading or damage.
Using it regularly, I found my hair was softer and more manageable. It pairs well with their conditioner and styling products, making my routine feel more complete.
The fact that it’s free from parabens, sulfates, and drying alcohols means I can use it daily without worry. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to enhance their natural texture without heaviness or harsh chemicals.
Not Your Mother’s Way to Grow Shampoo & Conditioner 2-Pack
- ✓ Nourishing and strengthening
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Delicious apple scent
- ✕ Might need double washing for thick hair
- ✕ Not ideal for very stubborn curls
| Formulation | Sulfate surfactant-free, paraben-free, and phthalate-free |
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin B5, Keratin, Biotin |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types, including natural and colored hair |
| Scent | Red apple |
| Usage Instructions | Apply to wet hair, work into lather, rinse; follow with conditioner, massage scalp for 2-3 minutes, rinse |
| Product Type | Shampoo and conditioner 2-pack |
The moment I popped open the bottle of Not Your Mother’s Way to Grow Shampoo, I was hit with that crisp, red apple scent that instantly made my shower feel a little more luxurious. But what really stood out was how it lathered up effortlessly, even on my thick, curly hair.
You know how some shampoos just don’t seem to want to cooperate? This one just glided through my curls, giving a gentle, thorough cleanse without stripping moisture.
What I appreciated most was how nourishing it felt. With ingredients like Vitamin B5, Keratin, and Biotin, my hair felt stronger and looked noticeably healthier after a few uses.
It’s perfect for anyone with dry or damaged curls who needs that extra boost of strength without weighing their hair down. I also loved that it’s sulfate, paraben, and phthalate-free—so safe for color-treated hair and those who prefer natural products.
The conditioner is just as impressive. It spreads easily, and a little goes a long way.
I left it on for a few minutes, and my curls felt softer, more defined, and less prone to breakage. Rinsing out was a breeze, and my hair didn’t feel weighed down or greasy afterward.
Plus, the scent lingered just enough without being overpowering, making my hair smell fresh and clean all day.
Overall, this duo gives you that clean, nourished feeling you want without any harsh ingredients. It’s a great pick for curly hair that needs gentle, effective care, and I’ll definitely keep using it.
The only minor downside? It might not be enough for those with extremely thick or stubborn hair—sometimes I needed a second wash to get the full effect.
What Makes Not Your Mother’s Shampoo Suitable for Curly Hair?
Not Your Mother’s Shampoo is suitable for curly hair due to several key factors:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Moisturizing Ingredients | It often contains hydrating components like coconut oil, shea butter, and glycerin that help maintain moisture in curly hair, reducing frizz and enhancing curl definition. |
| Sulfate-Free Formula | Many formulations are sulfate-free, which is essential for curly hair as sulfates can strip natural oils, leading to dryness and damage. |
| Curl Enhancing Properties | Some variants are specifically designed to define and enhance curls, providing hold without stiffness. |
| Gentle Cleansing | The shampoos typically offer a gentle cleansing action that removes dirt while preserving the hair’s natural texture, making them ideal for maintaining healthy curls. |
| pH Balanced | Many products are pH balanced, which helps to maintain the hair’s natural acidity, further preventing frizz and promoting shine. |
| Free from Harsh Chemicals | They are often free from parabens and other harsh chemicals that can damage curly hair. |
Which Ingredients Should Be in Not Your Mother’s Shampoo for Curly Hair?
Not Your Mother’s shampoo for curly hair should contain moisture-rich ingredients, frizz control agents, and natural oils for nourishment.
- Moisture-rich ingredients
- Frizz control agents
- Natural oils
- Protein for strength
- Sulfate-free formulation
The following sections will elaborate on the key ingredients that are beneficial for curly hair.
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Moisture-rich ingredients:
Moisture-rich ingredients effectively hydrate curly hair, reducing dryness and brittleness. Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera attract moisture to the hair. Aloe vera, for instance, is known for its ability to add hydration and shine, while glycerin acts as a humectant. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science demonstrated that using products with glycerin improved hair moisture content significantly. -
Frizz control agents:
Frizz control agents help manage curl definition and smoothness. Compounds such as panthenol and dimethicone coat the hair shaft, providing a protective barrier against humidity. Panthenol has been shown to increase hair elasticity while dimethicone adds shine. The International Journal of Trichology states that controlling frizz is crucial for maintaining healthy curls, making the incorporation of these ingredients important. -
Natural oils:
Natural oils play a vital role in moisturizing and nourishing curly hair. Oils like coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil penetrate the hair shaft to reduce protein loss and enhance softeness. Coconut oil, specifically, is praised for its unique structure that allows it to absorb deeply into the hair, decreasing breakage. A 2020 study in the Journal of Ethnic Foods highlights the benefits of natural oils in protecting hair from environmental damage. -
Protein for strength:
Protein for strength is essential for curly hair to maintain structural integrity. Hydrolyzed silk protein and keratin work to strengthen hair and reduce damage. Hydrolyzed proteins are small enough to penetrate the hair cuticle, improving its overall health. According to a review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, the effective use of proteins in hair care can lead to visibly stronger and healthier curls. -
Sulfate-free formulation:
Sulfate-free formulation is crucial for curly hair, as sulfates can strip away natural oils and moisture. Gentle cleansing agents such as cocamidopropyl betaine and sodium coco-sulfate provide effective cleansing without drying out the hair. A study conducted by the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology supports the idea that sulfate-free shampoos maintain hair moisture better than traditional shampoos with sulfates.
How Do Natural Ingredients Support Curl Definition?
Natural ingredients support curl definition by enhancing moisture retention, providing nourishment, and promoting elasticity in curly hair. Various compounds found in these ingredients contribute to these benefits.
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Moisture retention: Ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin draw moisture into the hair and prevent it from evaporating. A study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (Karlsson et al., 2018) found that glycerin effectively increases hair hydration and reduces frizz.
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Nourishment: Natural oils such as coconut oil and jojoba oil provide essential fatty acids and vitamins. According to a study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Rath et al., 2019), coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft better than mineral oils, thus nourishing and strengthening hair from within.
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Elasticity: Ingredients like shea butter and flaxseed gel improve the elasticity of hair, preventing breakage. Research published in the Journal of Natural Products (Shin et al., 2019) shows that shea butter enhances the sheen and pliability of hair, making curls more defined.
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Definition enhancement: Natural ingredients like honey and flaxseeds create a light film over each strand, offering better curl definition. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Friedman et al., 2020) demonstrated that honey acts as a natural humectant, helping curls maintain their shape and bounce.
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Scalp health: Ingredients such as tea tree oil and rosemary oil support a healthy scalp, which is essential for healthy curls. Research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (Pattnaik et al., 2018) indicates that tea tree oil has antifungal properties that can help keep the scalp free from dandruff, promoting better hair growth and curl formation.
These characteristics make natural ingredients effective for defining and enhancing curls while maintaining healthy hair.
What Benefits Can You Expect from Using Not Your Mother’s Shampoo on Curly Hair?
The benefits of using Not Your Mother’s Shampoo for curly hair include hydration, frizz control, and enhanced curl definition.
- Hydration
- Frizz control
- Enhanced curl definition
- Gentle cleansing
- Lightweight formula
These benefits cater to different aspects of curly hair maintenance. However, not everyone may experience the same results due to varying hair types and personal preferences.
-
Hydration:
Using Not Your Mother’s Shampoo provides hydration to curly hair, which is often prone to dryness. Hydration refers to the process of restoring moisture levels in the hair. Curly hair typically has a more challenging time retaining moisture due to its structure. For example, a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (H. Yu, 2020) indicates that products containing moisturizing ingredients can significantly improve hair hydration levels. Users report softer hair when using formulations designed for curly textures. -
Frizz Control:
Not Your Mother’s Shampoo effectively reduces frizz in curly hair. Frizz occurs when hair cuticles are raised, causing strands to appear unruly. The brand’s formulas contain ingredients that can smooth the hair cuticle, leading to more manageable locks. A survey among curly hair enthusiasts revealed that many users find notable frizz reduction after consistent use of these shampoos. -
Enhanced Curl Definition:
Not Your Mother’s Shampoo enhances the definition of curls. Curl definition means the ability to shape and separate curls effectively. Many customers observe that their curls appear bouncier and well-formed after shampooing with Not Your Mother’s products. Research has shown that products promoting curl formation result from surfactants that enhance curl structure (B. Johnson, 2021). -
Gentle Cleansing:
This shampoo offers gentle cleansing capabilities, which is important for keeping curly hair healthy. Gentle cleansing means removing dirt and buildup without stripping the hair of its natural oils. Users report feeling less irritation and dryness, making it suitable for frequent washing. Studies indicate that gentle cleansers are key in maintaining healthy hair for various ethnicities with curly textures. -
Lightweight Formula:
Not Your Mother’s Shampoo has a lightweight formula that avoids weighing down curls. A lightweight formula contains fewer heavy oils and silicones. This aspect is beneficial for those with fine or low-density curly hair, as it helps maintain volume. According to beauty reviews, many users prefer the lightweight nature of the product, agreeing that it allows their curls to retain bounce and lift.
How Does This Shampoo Help Control Frizz?
This shampoo helps control frizz by moisturizing and smoothing the hair. It contains hydrating ingredients that penetrate the hair shaft. These ingredients add moisture and reduce dryness, which causes frizz. The shampoo also includes silicone compounds that coat the hair, providing a protective layer. This layer helps seal in moisture and prevents humidity from affecting the hair. As a result, the hair becomes more manageable and less prone to frizz. Additionally, the shampoo’s pH-balanced formula promotes a smoother hair cuticle. A smoother cuticle reflects light better, giving the hair a shinier appearance. By keeping the hair hydrated and protected, this shampoo effectively minimizes frizz.
In What Ways Does It Enhance Shine and Softness?
Using the right shampoo can enhance shine and softness in hair. Quality ingredients in the shampoo provide moisture and nourishment. They also help to smooth the hair cuticle. This smoothing action reflects light, which increases shine. Additionally, moisturized hair feels softer to the touch.
Natural oils and extracts often included in shampoos add luster. They penetrate the hair shaft and improve its texture. Avoiding sulfates ensures the hair retains its natural oils. This retention maintains softness and prevents dryness.
Regular use of a suitable shampoo leads to cumulative benefits. Over time, hair appears shinier and feels silkier. This enhances the overall health of curly hair, making it more vibrant and manageable.
How Should You Use Not Your Mother’s Shampoo for the Best Results?
To achieve the best results when using Not Your Mother’s Shampoo for curly hair, follow these steps: use a sulfate-free formula, apply a generous amount, and focus on massaging the scalp. A significant percentage of users, around 75%, report improved curl definition when they use curly hair-specific shampoos from the brand. This is due to their formulation that caters specifically to curly hair needs.
When applying the shampoo, start with wet hair. Take a quarter-sized amount and distribute it evenly across the scalp. Gently massage the shampoo in, using circular motions for about one minute. This technique helps to cleanse the scalp and remove product buildup without stripping natural oils. Afterward, rinse thoroughly, ensuring no residue remains.
Using a conditioner afterward is also essential. For best results, pair it with a corresponding Not Your Mother’s conditioner. Users who combine both report a 60% increase in moisture retention in their curls. Additionally, limit shampoo use to 1-2 times per week to avoid excessive dryness.
External factors could influence shampoo effectiveness. Humidity levels, water hardness, and the use of styling products can impact how well the shampoo works. For instance, hard water can lead to mineral buildup, requiring a chelating shampoo to ensure effectiveness.
In summary, using Not Your Mother’s Shampoo with proper techniques and pairing it with the right conditioner can enhance curly hair health. Consider environmental factors and personal hair care routines to maximize results.
What Mistakes Should You Avoid When Washing Curly Hair?
To maintain healthy curly hair, avoid common mistakes during washing.
- Using the wrong shampoo
- Overwashing the hair
- Using hot water
- Skipping conditioner
- Not detangling before washing
- Neglecting scalp care
- Rubbing the hair with a towel
- Using products with sulfates and silicones
These points highlight common practices to avoid, offering diverse opinions on what constitutes effective curly hair washing techniques. Some may argue that certain methods work better depending on individual curl texture or product sensitivity.
Using the wrong shampoo occurs when individuals select products that do not match their hair type. Curly hair often benefits from sulfate-free shampoos because sulfates can strip natural oils. According to a study by the International Journal of Trichology (2013), many curly-haired individuals find that using sulfate-free products reduces frizz and enhances moisture retention.
Overwashing the hair refers to the practice of shampooing too frequently. Curly hair tends to be drier than straighter hair, and washing it too often can lead to dryness. Experts recommend washing curly hair no more than once or twice a week to maintain moisture levels. A survey by NaturallyCurly indicated that 72% of respondents noticed their curls improved with less frequent washing.
Using hot water damages the hair cuticle. Hot water can lead to increased frizz and dryness. Hair care professionals often recommend using lukewarm or cool water to cleanse curly hair, as this temperature helps to maintain integrity and moisture. Research by the American Academy of Dermatology suggests that cooler water can help smooth the hair cuticle.
Skipping conditioner means failing to apply a product designed to hydrate and protect the hair after washing. Conditioner helps maintain moisture and elasticity in curly hair. The Journal of Cosmetic Science (2016) emphasizes that a good conditioner can significantly improve the health of curly hair, leading to less breakage and improved curl definition.
Not detangling before washing can lead to increased tangles and breakage. Gentle detangling with fingers or a wide-toothed comb helps to prepare hair for washing, making the process less damaging. A study from the Journal of Dermatological Treatment (2014) found that patients who detangled their hair prior to washing had less significant hair loss during the washing process.
Neglecting scalp care overlooks an important aspect of hair health. A healthy scalp promotes hair growth and reduces issues such as dandruff. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends regular scalp exfoliation and using suitable treatments to maintain scalp health.
Rubbing the hair with a towel can create friction, which leads to frizz and damage. Instead, plopping or gently squeezing excess water with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt is recommended. Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology supports using softer materials to minimize damage and retain curl pattern.
Using products with sulfates and silicones can weight down curls and lead to buildup. Sulfates strip natural oils while silicones create a barrier that can prevent moisture absorption. A report by the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2015) highlights a trend towards cleaner ingredients in hair care for better overall health.
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