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Harmful ingredients in hair cosmetics - a list worth knowing
Every day, I'm asked which hair products are worth choosing and which ingredients should be avoided. For years, I've been guided by the principle: care should be effective yet gentle —without harsh detergents, synthetic additives, or substances that weigh down hair instead of nourishing it. That's why I dedicate so much attention to education and creating natural recipes at Orientana. In this post, I've compiled a list of harmful ingredients in hair care products , most commonly found in drugstore shampoos and conditioners. This list isn't meant to scare you, but to make you aware that making informed choices really does make a difference—for both the health of your hair and scalp. Why is it worth checking the ingredients of hair cosmetics? For years, I've been a proponent of natural, stress-free hair care . I believe that healthy hair isn't the result of marketing promises, but rather the regular use of chemical-free cosmetics. Unfortunately, many popular products still contain ingredients that: they provide a short-term effect (e.g. silicone smoothness), but over time they weaken the hair, may irritate the scalp and intensify dandruff or itching, they disturb the natural balance - instead of regenerating, they cause dryness or greasiness, are not indifferent to the environment - yes, I pay attention to that too! For me personally, this last point is just as important as hair health. Conscious consumer choices are not only about caring for yourself, but also for the planet. Therefore, checking labels isn't a whim—it's an investment in long-term beauty and responsible care. Harmful ingredients in cosmetics – a list to avoid I know from experience that reading labels can be overwhelming. That's why I've prepared a specific list of ingredients to avoid in hair care products. These are the ingredients most often responsible for dryness, irritation, loss of shine, and weakened hair. Parabens Where are they found? - preservatives used in many shampoos and conditioners. Why do I avoid them? They can disrupt hormonal balance and cause allergic reactions. For me, that's reason enough to replace them with safe, naturally derived preservatives that don't harm the skin or the environment. Silicones (e.g. Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane) Where are they found? - in conditioners, masks and hair serums. Why do I avoid them? They create a false impression of smoothness and shine by forming a coating around the hair. In the long run, this coating blocks the penetration of nutrients and makes the hair heavy and dull. I prefer natural oils and extracts that actually nourish the hair from the inside out. SLS and SLES (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate) Where are they found? - in shampoos as foaming detergents. Why do I avoid them? These are strong cleansers that remove not only dirt but also natural sebum and the skin's protective layer. The result? Irritation, dryness, and excessive oiliness. I choose gentle, plant-based cleansers that effectively cleanse without damaging the scalp's barrier. PEGs (Polyethylene glycols) Where are they found? - in conditioners, masks and styling agents. Why I avoid them? They're used as emulsifiers and softeners, but they can irritate and increase the penetration of other chemicals into the skin. I prefer natural emulsifiers that work with the skin's physiology. Phthalates Where are they found? - most often in perfumed hair products. Why do I avoid them? They are suspected of having toxic effects on the endocrine and reproductive systems. Instead, I choose safe fragrances based on natural essential oils. Formaldehyde and its donors (DMDM Hydantoin, Imidazolidinyl Urea) Where are they found? - in some conditioners and styling products. Why do I avoid them? They can be irritating, allergenic, and are considered potentially carcinogenic. For me, there's no room for such compromises in skincare. As you can see, most of these ingredients only provide superficial results —instead of regenerating, they have a short-term effect and, over time, can worsen the condition of your hair. Therefore, my philosophy is simple: the less aggression and artificial stress, the better for your hair and scalp . How do harmful ingredients affect hair and scalp? When I consciously choose cosmetics, I always consider their real long-term impact on hair . I know that many drugstore products offer quick results: instant smoothing, intense shine, or instant volume. But these effects are short-lived and come with long-term problems. Weakness and brittleness of hair Harsh detergents (SLS, SLES) strip away the natural lipid layer that protects hair from moisture loss. The result? Hair becomes brittle, fragile, and dull. I know firsthand that even the best conditioner won't do the trick if we destroy this basic protective barrier every day. Dry scalp SLS, SLES, PEGs, and parabens can irritate the scalp. This often leads to itching, dandruff, and even inflammation. Instead of balance, we experience discomfort and the need to "rescue" the skin with additional products. Hair becomes greasy faster It's a paradox – the stronger the shampoo containing SLS, the faster the hair becomes oily. Why? Because the scalp, deprived of natural lipids, begins to produce excess sebum to protect itself. The result is a vicious cycle: daily washing, lack of volume, and hair that feels flat after just a few hours. The illusion of smoothness and shine Silicones create a tight seal on the hair, providing immediate smoothness. However, over time, the hair becomes increasingly "empty" inside, as no nutrients can penetrate the silicone barrier. It's a bit like makeup without care: a pretty effect for a moment, but no long-term support. Loss of volume and "heavy hair" Artificial polymers and silicones cling to hair, making it heavy and lacking its natural flow. Instead of lightness and healthy movement, we end up with hair that's difficult to style and looks dull more quickly. Potential health risks Some preservatives raise concerns not only about beauty but also about health. They can penetrate the body and disrupt its natural balance. For me, this is a line I don't want to cross in my skincare routine. MY OPINION: That's why I choose products without aggression —with natural plant-based detergents, extracts, and oils that actually nourish and support hair from the inside , instead of just masking the problem. This keeps hair light, vibrant, and beautiful for longer. Natural alternatives to controversial substances I always say that care doesn't have to mean compromise. You can create hair products that are gentle, effective, and safe by consciously harnessing the power of nature. That's why at Orientana, I select every ingredient to work in harmony with your hair and scalp. Instead of SLS and SLES - mild plant-based cleaning agents Cocamidopropyl Betaine (from coconut oil) - effectively cleanses but does not destroy the hydrolipid barrier. Decyl Glucoside (from glucose and fatty alcohols) - ideal for sensitive and irritated skin. Thanks to them, the hair is clean and the scalp remains balanced. Instead of silicones - vegetable oils and butters Jojoba oil - regulates sebum secretion, moisturizes without the "heavy" effect. Mango butter - smoothes, adds softness and elasticity. Coconut oil - penetrates the hair structure, strengthening it from the inside. The smoothness and shine effect is natural and the hair really becomes healthier. Instead of PEGs - natural emulsifiers Lecithin - supports hair regeneration and has antistatic properties. Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate - biodegradable emulsifier safe for skin and the environment. Thanks to them, conditioners and masks have a velvety consistency, without the risk of irritation. Instead of parabens - natural preservatives Benzoic acid and sorbic acid - effectively protect the product and at the same time are well tolerated by the skin. Plant ferments - increasingly act as preservatives and additionally support the scalp microbiome. Instead of formaldehyde – plant extracts with protective properties Amla extract – strengthens hair follicles and stimulates hair growth. Gotu kola extract (Asiatic pennywort) – soothes irritations and supports microcirculation of the scalp. Pectins – strongly moisturizes and improves hair structure. Modern natural ingredients in hair care In my approach to creating cosmetics, I prioritize ingredients that are not only safe but, above all, have proven moisturizing, regenerative, and protective properties . In recent years, biotechnology and phytoengineering have provided us with incredibly inspiring solutions. These solutions address the need for conscious hair care, free from unnecessary burdens and aggression. Probiotics These are living microorganisms that support the scalp's microbiome. They strengthen the skin's protective barrier, reducing irritation and dandruff. Probiotics restore balance, which directly impacts the health of hair follicles and the condition of hair. Prebiotics These nutrients support probiotics—a kind of "fuel" for good bacteria. Used in hair care products, they support the scalp's natural immunity and prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms. This allows hair to grow in a healthier environment. Postbiotics Modern ingredients derived from probiotic fermentation. They are more stable than probiotics alone, while retaining their beneficial properties: they strengthen the microbiome, soothe irritation, and support scalp regeneration. Gluconolactone It belongs to the PHA (polyhydroxy acid) group. It gently exfoliates dead cells while deeply moisturizing. In hair and scalp care, it acts as a gentle enzymatic exfoliant , supporting renewal and adding radiance. Ideal for sensitive skin. Panthenol (provitamin B5) It's a classic in modern hair care, yet still irreplaceable. It moisturizes, soothes, and smooths hair, making it soft, flexible, and more resistant to damage. It also has a soothing effect on the scalp, which anyone struggling with irritation will appreciate. Vegequat® Vegequat® is a modern, plant-based conditioning ingredient that combines coconut fatty acids and hydrolyzed wheat proteins . This composition acts as a natural protective shield, shielding hair from the harmful effects of both mechanical factors (e.g., hot air from hairdryers and straighteners) and chemical factors (coloring, permanent waves). In hair cleansing products, it improves the quality of the lather , making it thicker and more stable, which increases the comfort of application. Additionally, Vegequat® gives hair softness, elasticity, and makes combing easier without weighing it down. FiberHance™ BM Solution An innovative ingredient that strengthens the internal structure of hair. It penetrates the hair's core and creates additional bonds in the keratin structure, making hair stronger and less prone to breakage. It's an alternative to silicones that truly works from the inside out. Baicapil™ A complex of natural extracts (including Baikal skullcap, soybean sprouts, and wheat) that stimulates hair growth and inhibits hair loss. This modern solution, based on phytotherapy and scientific research, is a true natural response to the problem of thinning hair. Quinine Long known in traditional hair care, it's now making a comeback as an ingredient with proven effectiveness. It stimulates microcirculation in the scalp, strengthens hair follicles, and accelerates hair growth. Perfect for those who dream of thicker hair. Acticire® MB A natural complex of three plant waxes (mimosa, jojoba, and sunflower). It creates a light, protective layer on the hair, preventing moisture loss and leaving it soft and shiny. This ingredient acts as a "plant-based alternative to silicones," but without the heaviness. It's ingredients like these that demonstrate that modern hair care can be natural, effective, and environmentally friendly . Instead of aggression and burden, they offer intelligent support —restoring, protecting, and strengthening hair from the inside. How to choose safe hair cosmetics? - a practical checklist I know that drugstore shelves can be overwhelming, and labels full of complicated chemical names don't make choosing easy. That's why I've prepared a simple checklist that will help you determine, step by step, whether a hair product is truly safe and valuable. Check the list of ingredients (INCI) Avoid: SLS, SLES, parabens, silicones, PEGs, formaldehyde donors . Look for: mild plant detergents (Decyl Glucoside, Coco-Glucoside), natural oils and butters, plant extracts, probiotics, prebiotics, gluconolactone, panthenol . My rule: the shorter and more understandable the ingredient list, the better for your skin and hair. Look for modern natural ingredients Safe and effective care means not only the absence of “bad” ingredients, but also the presence of modern active substances: Baicapil™ – for hair growth and hair loss reduction, FiberHance™ – to rebuild the internal structure of the hair, Vegequat® – for softness and easy combing, Acticire® MB – for protection and shine, Gluconolactone and D-panthenol – for hydration and regeneration. Check out the brand philosophy Are cosmetics not tested on animals ? Does the brand focus on natural recipes and an ethical approach ? Do the ingredients have documented research? These are the questions I always ask myself when working on a new formula. Choose cosmetics tailored to your hair needs Dry and damaged hair – choose oils, butters, Acticire®, panthenol . Oily hair – use mild detergents, probiotics, and plant extracts . Hair loss – look for Baicapil™, quinine, ginseng . Lack of volume – choose restorative ingredients like FiberHance™ . Thanks to this checklist, you will avoid marketing traps and choose cosmetics that really care for your hair without aggression, without burden and in harmony with nature . Conscious hair care isn't a passing fad, but a lifestyle. For years, I've been choosing cosmetics that don't burden my hair and scalp with chemical aggression , instead utilizing the power of nature and modern plant-based ingredients. The list of harmful substances in hair care products may seem long—parabens, silicones, SLS and SLES, PEGs, phthalates, formaldehyde donors, and artificial fragrances—but a little mindfulness is all it takes to avoid them. Instead, we have a wealth of modern natural ingredients , such as probiotics, gluconolactone, D-panthenol, Baicapil™, FiberHance™, and Vegequat®, which truly support hair from the inside out. Remember that healthy, vibrant hair is the result of a conscious choice – without compromise and without unnecessary burdens. Astringent: Harmful Ingredients in Hair Care Products You Should Avoid Parabens – controversial hormonal preservatives SLS and SLES – aggressive detergents that dry out the scalp Silicones – they only give an illusion of smoothness PEGs – may irritate and facilitate the penetration of chemicals Phthalates – suspected of having a toxic effect on health Formaldehyde and its donors – irritants, potentially carcinogenic Synthetic fragrances and dyes – unnecessary additives that burden the skin The principle I follow at Orientana: less aggression, more nature. This allows for hair to be light, shiny, and truly healthy. FAQ – Harmful Ingredients in Hair Cosmetics 1. What are the most harmful ingredients in hair cosmetics? The most frequently mentioned include SLS and SLES , parabens, silicones, PEGs, phthalates, formaldehyde donors, and synthetic fragrances and dyes. These can dry out hair, irritate the scalp, and weaken hair follicles. 2. Do silicones really harm hair? Silicones themselves aren't toxic, but they create a false impression of smoothness and shine by creating a tight seal on the hair. In the long run, they block the access of nutrients, leaving the hair feeling "empty." Instead, it's worth using natural oils and butters (e.g., jojoba, mango, coconut). 3. Why is it worth avoiding SLS and SLES in shampoos? These are strong detergents that effectively remove dirt, but also strip away the scalp's natural lipid layer. This can lead to irritation, dryness, and even excessive oiliness. Gentle plant-based cleansers , such as Decyl Glucoside or Coco-Glucoside, are a better choice. 4. Are parabens carcinogenic? The research is divided – parabens are approved for use in cosmetics as safe ingredients, but there are concerns about their impact on hormonal balance. For me, this is reason enough to avoid them and choose safe natural preservatives like benzoic acid or sorbic acid. 5. How to recognize harmful ingredients in cosmetics? It's best to check INCI labels. Avoid terms like: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Parabens, Dimethicone, PEG- , DMDM Hydantoin, Parfum (synthetic) . It's a good idea to stick to the rule: shorter and simpler ingredients = safer cosmetics . What natural ingredients are worth choosing instead of harmful ones? Instead of silicones → vegetable oils, mango butter, Acticire® MB Instead of SLS/SLES → gentle detergents made of coconut and glucose Instead of synthetic quats → Vegequat® For hair strengthening → Baicapil™, FiberHance™, quinine For hydration → D-panthenol, gluconolactone, probiotics and prebiotics If you want to use conscious natural care, like me, start using Orientana cosmetics.
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Combination skin care - effective ingredients, Orientana cosmetics and the most common mistakes
Combination skin is the most common skin type – statistics show that over 40% of women in Poland have it. Caring for it, however, is one of the greatest challenges in cosmetology, as it combines the characteristics of two extremes: an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and dry, often even dehydrated cheeks . Poorly selected cosmetics can either over-dry the skin or further stimulate the sebaceous glands. That's why it's so important to know what combination skin care should look like and which ingredients best suit its needs. In this article, you'll find a practical guide to the most important active ingredients, recommended natural Orientana cosmetics , and a list of mistakes to avoid in your daily routine. Combination skin - how to recognize it? Combination skin is a combination of two skin types: The T-zone is oily, prone to blackheads, enlarged pores and shine. The cheeks and eye area can be dry, sensitive, and even prone to irritation and redness. The most common problems of combination skin include: uneven skin texture, dryness after washing, simultaneous occurrence of imperfections and roughness, difficulty in choosing a cream that will moisturize but not burden. That's why it's crucial that combination skin care is balanced – it must regulate sebum secretion in the T-zone, while at the same time ensuring proper hydration of the dry areas of the face. Combination skin care step by step Cleansing without damaging the skin barrier The first and most important step is gentle but effective cleansing . For combination skin, avoid strong detergents (e.g., SLS), which can dry out the cheeks and create a vicious cycle—the skin begins to produce even more sebum to protect itself. Gentle formulas work best as they simultaneously remove impurities and support the skin's natural hydrolipid barrier. 👉 Orientana Gentle Facial Cleansing Gel is a perfect example – it cleanses the skin, gently exfoliates, and at the same time intensely moisturizes. Importantly, it contains 98.6% natural ingredients that are very gentle on the skin , making it suitable even for sensitive skin. 👉 Alternatively, reach for the Kantola facial cleansing foam - it is equally gentle and effective, and additionally moisturizes. Toning and restoring pH balance The second step in skincare is toning , which prepares the skin for further care and restores its natural pH. For combination skin, it's worth reaching for toners-essences that not only refresh but also moisturize and support the hydrolipid barrier. 👉 Orientana Essence Tonic (date + gluconolactone + rice proteins) works great in this role - it works as a tonic and essence in one. Gluconolactone gently exfoliates and retains water in the epidermis. Date extract smoothes and has antioxidant properties. Rice proteins have been used in Asian skincare for centuries to soothe and strengthen the skin. 👉 Alternatively, you can choose the Soothing Tonic Japanese Rose and Pandan - especially if your combination skin is prone to irritation and redness. Toning is a step that shouldn't be skipped – without it, even the best serum or cream may be less effective. Tremella series from Orientana - natural hydration and regulation for combination skin The Tremella Orientana series harnesses the power of snow mushroom ( Tremella fuciformis ), known as "plant-derived hyaluronic acid." Its polysaccharides incredibly moisturize, soften, and balance the skin, making it an ideal ingredient for combination skin . Additionally, it has antioxidant and soothing properties, supporting skin regeneration. Light cream for combination skin with Tremella mushroom extract Action: Regulates sebum production – where there is excess, the cream reduces it. Mattifies the T-zone and moisturizes dry areas of the skin. The formula was created to restore balance – mattifying where needed and moisturizing where skin is dry. It also reduces the appearance of pores. Results: Users often notice a reduction in shine after just a few days, and improvement in texture and pore tightening within 2-4 weeks of regular use Additionally: The light consistency makes the cream an excellent base for makeup – it facilitates the application of color cosmetics and prolongs their durability. Tremella & Exosomes Moisturizing Serum-Elixir Active ingredients: Tremella extract and hyaluronic acid for intense hydration; exosomes supporting regeneration and improving skin elasticity; lactic acid regulating sebum, illuminating and tightening pores; aloe juice soothing irritations. Recommended for combination skin: The serum works on many levels – it moisturizes, regenerates, mattifies and at the same time soothes the skin. Hydrating Mask (Hydro Tremella Mask) Action: Intensively moisturizes, normalizes sebum secretion, reduces imperfections, reduces the visibility of pores; acts like a "compress" - soothes, regenerates the hydrolipid barrier and restores skin elasticity. Effects: The skin becomes smooth, radiant and less prone to oiliness - a perfect evening care ritual . Nourishing eye cream with ceramides, Tremella and avocado oil Ingredients: Tremella - a humectant that attracts moisture; ceramides - strengthening the protective barrier and soothing; avocado oil - intensely moisturizes and smoothes the delicate skin under the eyes. Action: Reduces signs of fatigue, puffiness and fine wrinkles, making the skin around the eyes look radiant. Why is the Tremella series effective in the care of combination skin? Product Key action Tremella Light Cream Regulates sebum, mattifies the T-zone, moisturizes dry areas, reduces the visibility of pores Tremella Serum-Elixir & Exosomes Moisturizing, regenerating, sebum control, brightening Hydro Tremella Mask Intensive soothing, sebum balance, regeneration, pore tightening Tremella & Ceramides Eye Cream Moisturizing and smoothing the delicate eye area How to use active ingredients in the daily care of combination skin? The principle of balance - moisture balance and sebum regulation Combination skin needs both hydration and sebum control . That's why it's crucial to choose active ingredients that not only mattify and minimize pores but also strengthen the skin's hydrolipid barrier. A key ingredient in the Tremella series is snow mushroom extract, which binds water in the epidermis like natural hyaluronic acid, while also soothing and providing antioxidant benefits. Combined with exosomes and lactic acid, it provides a multidimensional balancing effect. The order of applying cosmetics For the active ingredients to work effectively, it is important to follow the correct order in your daily routine: Cleansing - with a gentle gel or foam so as not to disturb the skin barrier. Toning - restores natural pH and prepares the skin for better absorption of ingredients. Serum - e.g. Tremella & Exosomes Moisturizing Serum , which intensively moisturizes, brightens and supports regeneration. Cream - e.g. Tremella Light Cream for Combination Skin , which regulates sebum, moisturizes and reduces the visibility of pores . Combining light water formulas and richer spot creams Combination skin often requires an individual approach - light, water-based formulas for the entire face, and richer cosmetics only for specific areas, e.g.: for the cheeks - a more nourishing cream (e.g. an eye cream with ceramides and Tremella can also be used on dry cheek areas), in the T zone - products that regulate sebum and reduce the visibility of pores. This approach ensures that care is tailored to the actual needs of the skin and does not lead to dryness or excessive shine. The most common mistakes in the care of combination skin 1. Too aggressive cleansing Many people reach for strong gels containing SLS or alcohol, which dry out the skin. The result? The skin begins to defend itself and produces even more sebum. Instead, it's worth choosing gentle, natural formulas to avoid that "tight" feeling after washing. 2. Lack of hydration Combination skin is often mistaken for oily skin – many people skip cream, which leads to dehydration and irritation. However, the lightweight Tremella Orientana cream perfectly moisturizes and regulates sebum. 3. Using heavy, comedogenic oils Rich oils, which are effective for dry skin, can clog pores and exacerbate blemishes in combination skin. A better choice are lightweight humectant formulas, such as a serum based on Tremella and lactic acid. 4. Lack of consistency in care Combination skin requires regularity - only the systematic use of active ingredients brings visible results: less sebum, unified skin texture and smaller pores. 5. Skipping sunscreen Although combination skin can be problematic, don't forget about SPF. Sun exposure exacerbates dry cheeks, accelerates aging, and leads to discoloration. FAQ about the Tremella Orientana series Are Tremella cosmetics suitable for combination skin? Yes, the entire line was developed specifically with combination skin in mind. The cream regulates sebum and minimizes the appearance of pores, the serum intensely moisturizes and brightens, and the mask balances the skin and soothes irritation. How often should I use the Hydro Tremella mask? It's recommended to use it 2-3 times a week as an intensive regenerative ritual. The mask soothes imperfections, tightens pores , and evens out skin texture. Can Tremella Light Cream be used under makeup? Yes, the cream has a light consistency, absorbs quickly, regulates sebum production, and reduces shine. This makes it an excellent base for makeup, extending its wear. Is the Tremella & Exosomes serum suitable for sensitive skin? Yes, the formula combines moisturizing Tremella, soothing aloe, and regenerating exosomes. It soothes, strengthens the protective barrier, and doesn't weigh down the skin. Can Tremella eye cream also be used on other parts of the face? Yes - its nourishing but light consistency means it can also be applied to dry areas of the cheeks where the skin requires additional nourishment. FAQ about combination skin Does combination skin need moisturizing? Yes. This is one of the most common skincare mistakes – skipping creams. Combination skin requires light hydration (e.g., humectants, ceramides) to prevent dryness and irritation. What ingredients are best for combination skin? Balancing ingredients are ideal, such as Tremella (hydration), lactic acid (sebum regulation), exosomes (regeneration), niacinamide (pore reduction), and adaptogens (ashwagandha, CICA). How often should you wash combination skin? Ideally, twice a day – morning and evening. Avoid harsh cleansers, which dry out the cheeks and stimulate the sebaceous glands to overproduce sebum. Can combination skin use oils? Yes, but only light and regulating oils, such as sandalwood and turmeric. Oils that are too heavy can clog pores. How to care for the T-zone and cheeks? Treat your T-zone with products that regulate sebum and minimize the appearance of pores, and your cheeks with products that moisturize and strengthen the skin barrier. Tremella products work well on both areas, ensuring balance. Should combination skin care be different in summer and winter? Yes. In the summer, it's worth focusing on lightweight, mattifying formulas and SPF protection, while in the winter, it's worth focusing on additional hydration and protection against dryness. Summary – combination skin care with Orientana Tremella Combination skin care requires a balance between sebum regulation and proper hydration . That's why it's so important to choose cosmetics that work multifacetedly—mattifying the T-zone, hydrating the cheeks, reducing the appearance of pores, and strengthening the skin's protective barrier. The Tremella Orientana series was created specifically for the needs of combination skin. A light cream, a moisturizing serum with exosomes, a mask that soothes imperfections, and an eye cream with ceramides create a cohesive care ritual that doesn't weigh down the skin while providing it with a healthy, radiant appearance. 👉 If you're wondering how to care for combination skin , reach for proven natural solutions. Discover the full line of Tremella Orientana cosmetics and restore your skin's natural balance.
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