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Label Literacy: Are You Reading Labels When Cho...
Do you read labels when purchasing skincare products for your baby? Are you aware of the potentially harmful ingredients found in some renowned brands? With customers becoming more conscious, brands...
Label Literacy: Are You Reading Labels When Choosing Skincare for Your Baby?
Do you read labels when purchasing skincare products for your baby? Are you aware of the potentially harmful ingredients found in some renowned brands? With customers becoming more conscious, brands are now revising their product ingredients. How do you navigate through the gamut of products claiming to be the best? It’s the labels that differentiate them. As consumers pay closer attention to product content, they opt for better quality. However, issues persist! In this blog, we’ll guide you on deciphering product labels, ingredient lists, certifications, and regulatory nuances, empowering parents to confidently choose safe skincare products for their little ones. Here’s what to look for: Read & Interpret Product Labels: Reading and interpreting product labels empower consumers to make informed decisions. It reveals the contents of a product and provides a better understanding of its formulation. Newborns’ skin is 20x thinner and more sensitive than adult skin, making them susceptible to various skincare conditions, allergies, and irritation. Therefore, delving into the details of product labels empowers parents to choose the best for their little ones. Ingredients Lists: At the core of any skincare product lies its composition. Checking the ingredients list will help you comprehend what goes into your little one’s skincare regimen. Navigating the jargon can be daunting, as skincare ingredients often have multiple scientific names that may bewilder consumers. Taking the time to grasp these terms can make a significant difference. For instance, Chamomilla Recutita, often listed in soothing diaper rash creams for newborns, is none other than Chamomile extract. Its calming and anti-inflammatory properties are perfect for alleviating diaper rash and irritation. Understanding these terms can be a game-changer in making informed choices about your child’s skincare routine. Expiration Date: Similar to adult skincare products, your little one’s skincare items also have a shelf life. It’s crucial to check for the expiry date on each product. Using expired products can pose risks to your baby’s delicate skin. While not all packaging includes expiration dates, it’s essential to rely on those that do. Make sure to manage your baby’s skincare inventory and stay vigilant about expiration dates to safeguard your baby from potential skin irritations or harm. Certifications: When it comes to your baby’s skincare, certifications play a pivotal role. Ensure that your chosen products hold certifications from reputable organizations like IFRA, ECOCERT-COSMOS Organics, and others. These certifications indicate compliance with stringent standards, providing consumers with 100% transparency and peace of mind. Dermatologist-approved and certified products offer an assurance of safety for delicate skin, a paramount concern for parents. In today’s market, customers are increasingly willing to invest more in products with authentic certifications, prioritizing quality and safety over lower-priced alternatives. By opting for certified products, parents not only ensure the well-being of their little ones but also make a conscious choice towards a healthier and safer skincare routine. Regulatory Nuances: Staying abreast of regulatory nuances is essential when selecting skincare products for your baby to ensure their safety. Beyond merely complying with regulations, it’s imperative to verify that the product is manufactured in accordance with promotional guidelines outlined by regulatory bodies like the FDA. Regulatory nuances encompass various aspects, such as ingredient restrictions, labeling requirements, and manufacturing practices. For instance, ensuring compliance with specific ingredient bans, like phthalates or parabens, safeguards against potentially harmful substances. Additionally, adherence to labeling regulations, including clear ingredient lists and expiration dates, enhances transparency and consumer trust. No Harmful Chemicals: Last but certainly not least, ensuring the absence of harmful chemicals is paramount in your baby’s skincare routine. Baby skin is particularly sensitive and can suffer adverse reactions when exposed to such substances. Therefore, thorough label scrutiny is imperative to confirm that your chosen baby care products are devoid of harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, phthalates, polyethylene glycol, mineral oil, talc, and silicone, to name but a few. Check out the complete list of harmful ingredients you should avoid in your baby’s skincare products. Empowering Skincare Choices for Your Little One Making informed skincare decisions is crucial for your little one’s healthy and happy skin. It enables you to understand a product’s formulation, the potency of its ingredients, and its suitability for their delicate skin. At CITTA, your little one’s well-being is our top priority. That’s why we ensure 100% transparency in product labeling. We meticulously list every ingredient used to keep your little one’s skin healthy and happy all year round. Furthermore, by transparently listing the harmful ingredients we avoid, we empower parents to make informed choices. When you choose CITTA, you not only provide your little one with comprehensive care but also gain peace of mind. Choose Wisely, Choose CITTA for skincare you can trust!
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Can Adults Safely Use Baby Shampoos? Exploring ...
Absolutely! Baby shampoo is safe and gentle enough for adults with sensitive skin and those on the lookout for a mild, tear-free option. Formulated with mild & natural ingredients, baby shampoos are great for delicate...
Can Adults Safely Use Baby Shampoos? Exploring Benefits and Compatibility
Absolutely! Baby shampoo is safe and gentle enough for adults with sensitive skin and those on the lookout for a mild, tear-free option. Formulated with mild & natural ingredients, baby shampoos are great for delicate & fine hair and are less likely to irritate the skin of adults with any skin issues. It delicately cleanses hair without stripping away its natural oils. In this blog, we’ll explore the compatibility and benefits of using baby shampoos on adult hair. Without further ado, let’s get started: A Closer Look at Their Composition Before diving into the benefits for adults, let’s understand the composition of baby shampoos. Known for their gentle formulations tailored to the delicate scalps of infants, baby shampoos boast a blend of potent ingredients. Here’s an in-depth exploration: Gentle Formulation Baby shampoo is formulated with natural & mild ingredients that cleanse without stripping away natural oils or irritating the scalp. This makes baby shampoo suitable for daily use, especially for adults with sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic Ingredients Generally, baby shampoo comprises hypoallergenic ingredients that minimize the risk of allergic reactions. Carefully selected to be gentle on the skin, the ingredients in baby shampoo are less likely to trigger irritation, making them a safe choice for adults with allergies or sensitivities. Free of Harmful Chemicals & Toxins Unlike adult shampoo, baby shampoo is free of harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, among others. These toxins can be harsh on the skin and may cause long-term health concerns. Tear-Free Formula One notable feature of baby shampoos is their tear-free formula, carefully crafted to be gentle on the eyes. This makes them suitable for adults who prefer a milder option that won’t cause stinging or discomfort during use. How Beneficial is Baby Shampoo for Adults? Baby shampoo offers a host of advantages for adults seeking gentle care and scalp care. Let’s explore a few of them: Moisturizing Properties Formulated with gentle moisturizers, baby shampoos help nourish and hydrate the scalp and hair, leaving them feeling soft and smooth. Promotes a Balanced pH Crafted to maintain the natural pH balance of the scalp, baby shampoos promote healthy hair and scalp conditions. Gentle Cleansing Adults with delicate & fine hair can opt for baby shampoo as it is known for its gentle cleansing properties. The mild formulation of baby shampoo effectively cleanses the hair without stripping away its natural oils, making it ideal for adults with dry hair. Aids in Preventing Dandruff Baby shampoo gently cleanses away impurities while maintaining the scalp’s natural moisture balance. It helps prevent dandruff and promotes a healthy scalp environment. Suitable For Sensitive Skin Baby shampoos are perfect for adults with sensitive skin as it comprises hypoallergenic ingredients and a gentle formulation, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions or skin irritation. Besides, the soothing properties can help soothe inflamed scalp conditions. Also Read: How to Choose a Moisturizer for Babies with Dry Skin and Patches Understanding the Compatibility of Baby Shampoo for Adult Hair Remember to assess your hair’s unique requirements before incorporating baby shampoo into your hair care routine. Whether it’s controlling excess oil production or providing extra moisture to dry and damaged locks, different hair demands specific attention. Other than hair type, consider any specific concerns you may be facing. Are you struggling with dandruff or an itchy scalp? Look for baby shampoos that address these concerns with targeted solutions to ensure optimal hair health. When selecting baby shampoo for adult use, don’t overlook personal preferences. While some appreciate the gentle cleansing properties of baby shampoo, others may prioritize factors like lather strength. Align your preferences with the features of the baby shampoo you choose and tailor your hair care routine accordingly. After all, a suitable hair care regime will leave your hair feeling nourished, healthy, and clean. So choose wisely! Also Read: How to Apply Sunscreen to Your Baby: Safe Sun Protection Tips Every Parent Should Know
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8 Must-Haves When Heading Out with Your Little One
Come summers, and the innate love for vacay-ing goes off the charts. Whether it’s a road trip, a laid-back beach trip, or simply a weekend getaway, it’s essential to keep...
8 Must-Haves When Heading Out with Your Little One
Come summers, and the innate love for vacay-ing goes off the charts. Whether it’s a road trip, a laid-back beach trip, or simply a weekend getaway, it’s essential to keep the right things on your radar for the comfort of your little one. Wondering what to pack and what not to? Fret not; we’ve got your back! Here we’ve compiled a list of must-haves, tried and tested, to help you pack smarter for all those adorable chaos-filled outings with your little one. Hydrate On-The-Go First things first! Pack plenty of baby food and formula milk to keep your little one’s tummy full throughout your travels. Remember, a happy tummy is an important step towards keeping your little one fuss-free. Go for easy-to-eat foods like fruit purees, porridge mixes, along with water or diluted fruit juices to help your baby stay nourished and hydrated. Sun Protection Gear Protecting your little one from the sun’s harsh UV rays is essential. Exposure can harm their delicate skin, eyes, and immune system, leading to sunburn and even skin cancer. Equip your baby with sun protection gear like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, umbrella, and breathable, long-sleeved clothing crafted from cotton to shield them effectively. Diapers and Even More Diapers When it comes to packing for your baby, nothing tops the importance of diapers. Ensure a stress-free journey by packing at least one diaper for every hour of travel time for your little one. And don’t forget to take along some extra diapers as a backup - because you can never be too prepared when it comes to your baby’s comfort and happiness. Diaper Rash Cream No matter how absorbent the diapers are, your little one’s bottoms is susceptible to pesky diaper rashes, which can end up ruining your fun trip. A travel-size diaper rash cream for babies enriched with the goodness of zinc oxide, chamomile, and other natural ECOCERT/ COSMOS Organics certified ingredients can provide fast relief from redness and irritation. This will allow you and your little one to enjoy every moment of travels without any discomfort. Talc-Free Baby Powder A soothing talc-free powder for babies will keep your little one sweat-free and cool on-the-go. Why talc-free? Talc is a naturally occurring silicate mineral. Studies have brought forth the detrimental effects of talc and talc-based products, particularly when used on infants and young children. Therefore, look for a gentle, travel-size talc-free powder for newborns specially formulated with natural and certified ingredients to absorb excess moisture and sweat, ensuring your little one stays fresh and sweat-free throughout your summer adventures. Lightweight Stroller Roam around with your little one without any hassle with a compact and lightweight stroller. It is easy to maneuver and transport during your travels. Make sure to go for one with a canopy or sunshade, which will not just ensure a seamless transition from one place to another, but also shield your baby from the sun’s harmful rays. Baby Wash & Shampoo When you are travelling with your baby, make sure to carry a gentle baby wash and shampoo for your little one’s hygiene. Avoid carrying or procuring locally available soaps as it can increase the likelihood of skin irritation. Besides, while travelling soaps get dirty and messy very easily. Opt for a gentle foaming body wash and shampoo for newborns that comes in easy to carry mini travel packs, which will cleanse your little one’s skin and scalp without stripping away its natural oils. Moisturizing Baby Balm Follow up with a moisturizing baby balm for newborns to lock in hydration and keep your little one’s skin soft and supple. Baby’s skin loses moisture easily as it is 20x thinner than an adult’s skin, and baby balms are more hydrating than water-based lotions and creams. Opt for a moisturizing baby balm enriched with natural ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter. Final Thoughts Your travels with your precious one need not be hectic and the above checklist will guide you in having the essential stuff handy. While packing skincare for your baby, go for travel-size mini packs to avoid overstuffing your bags. CITTA’s travel-size skincare set is formulated with ECOCERT/ COSMOS Organics certified ingredients to keep babies happy, healthy, and comfortable during their little explorations. Happy travels!
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How to Decode Non-Verbal Communication and the ...
At times, new parents and caregivers often get overwhelmed by the fact that they can’t understand their baby’s cues and body language properly. Fret not; it is very common! Obviously,...
How to Decode Non-Verbal Communication and the Possible Meanings: Understanding Baby’s Cues & Body Language
At times, new parents and caregivers often get overwhelmed by the fact that they can’t understand their baby’s cues and body language properly. Fret not; it is very common! Obviously, they can’t talk to you, but through non-verbal cues like cries, smiles, noises, and body language, they try to convey their needs. Well, you don’t need a Communications Degree to decode your little one’s non-verbal communication. All you need is a little patience, and you’re good to go! Here’s a detailed breakdown of the different types of non-verbal cues that you can keep an eye on. Read on to find out! Importance Of Understanding Baby’s Non-Verbal Cues But, let’s first get to know the importance of grasping your little one’s non-verbal cues. First and foremost, effective communication is key to building an emotional bond with your little bundle of joy, reassuring them that they are understood and cared for. Parents demonstrate love and attachment by recognizing non-verbal cues, building the foundation for the baby’s overall development. Types of Non-Verbal Cues In Babies From vocal sounds to body movements, non-verbal cues comprise a range of types, and here we’ll ensure that you and your little one are on the same page. Vocal sounds: You often hear your little one making cooing and gurgling sounds. These sounds often indicate pleasure or contentment and are not to be confused with something else. While crying indicates hunger, discomfort, or a call for attention, babbling helps babies practice and explore different sounds or patterns of language. Facial expressions: According to studies conducted by renowned scientists, there is a universal pattern for babies to show what’s happening in their bodies. Through facial expressions, body language, gestures, and paralinguistics, they speak to us, conveying their needs and emotions. If your baby is smiling, think joy, and if your little one is frowning or grimacing, think discomfort or distress. Babies show curiosity with eyes wide open. Body language: Babies often kick their legs in excitement or anticipation. This can indicate eagerness or enthusiasm to interact with those present in their surroundings. They use their body parts to express their intentions like reaching out to someone to engage or simply to explore. To take a break from stimulation or to express a desire for solitude, babies may turn away or avoid eye contact. Touch: An additional form of non-verbal cue is touch, which can have both positive and negative impacts. While gentle touch can trigger the release of feel-good chemicals in a baby’s brain, brief or harsh touch leads to the release of stress chemicals. It is important to make the baby feel safe and secure in their environment, as touch plays a crucial role in their overall brain and cognitive development. Interpreting Non-Verbal Cues: An In-Depth Analysis Although every baby is unique, some universal signs tell us what they need. You don’t always have to interpret their cues perfectly, but ensure you make an effort to understand your little one’s emotions. Hungry or Full While babies express their hunger by sucking strongly and swallowing, they close or pull away their lips when full. When hungry, the baby will cry or complain if the bottle is taken away and when not, their mouth will dribble milk. Tired & Grumpy If a baby is tired, they start crying and become irritable. In fact, the pitch and intensity of crying also change, and they lose focus. Their eyes become red, hands clenched into fists, and their face scrunches up. Other signs of tiredness are constant rubbing of their faces and yawning. Additionally, babies can also be irritated when they have developed a skin rash or infection. Baby’s skin is 10 times more sensitive than older children and adults, which makes it more difficult for parents to spot where their little one has certain sensitivities. Daily skincare with dermatologist-approved products ensures intense moisturisation and hydration, which keeps most skincare issues like eczema, baby acne, milia, and rashes at bay. Besides, a nourishing diaper rash cream also helps soothe diaper rashes, which tend to develop quite often. Seeks Comfort Often, babies seek comfort and cry out of loneliness, reaching out to be held close. When strangers are present, they seek eye contact with familiar faces and it is important to stay close in such unfamiliar settings to provide a sense of security to your little one. Playful & Chirpy Babies, when they want to play, open their eyes wide and try to reach for someone’s face or a toy. In excitement, they wave their arms and legs and even laugh or giggle. They look around for something that catches their attention. Final Thoughts At times, we tend to overlook the fact that babies are constantly communicating with their non-verbal cues. In fact, they often mirror their parents’ behavior; therefore, it is crucial to maintain regular communication with them. Talk to your baby while bathing them, massaging them, changing their diaper, doing their skincare or feeding them. Try to mirror their expressions to show that you understand their cues. Most importantly, maintain eye contact and stay relaxed in your body posture and facial expression to develop a strong bond with your little one. References: https://raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/connecting-communicating/communicating/baby-cues https://www.parents.com/baby/development/social/decode-your-babys-body-language/ https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/decoding-babys-body-language-whats-your-child-trying-to-say/
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Have A Fussy Little One? Try This 7 Techniques
Let’s face it; babies can be quite fussy at times. Whether it’s due to hunger, discomfort, or simply a call for some extra attention, fussy episodes are a normal part...
Have A Fussy Little One? Try This 7 Techniques
Let’s face it; babies can be quite fussy at times. Whether it’s due to hunger, discomfort, or simply a call for some extra attention, fussy episodes are a normal part of a baby’s development. However, constant fussiness can take a heavy toll on overly tired parents, making them feel stressed out and frustrated. To make it easier, here we’ve shared some essential strategies to help calm and comfort your little one during these challenging moments. Identify the Cause: The first and foremost step in calming a fussy baby is to identify the underlying cause of their distress. Is your baby hungry, tired, or in need of a diaper change? Are they too hot or too cold? By addressing their basic needs first, you can often quickly alleviate their discomfort and restore their sense of calm. Create a Soothing Environment: Babies are sensitive to their surroundings, so creating a calm and soothing environment can help ease their fussiness. Dim the lights, play soft music or white noise, and gently rock or sway your baby in your arms. Swaddling can also provide a sense of security and comfort, mimicking the feeling of being in the womb. Offer Comforting Touch: A gentle touch can work wonders in soothing a fussy baby. Try holding your baby close to your chest, skin-to-skin, to provide warmth and reassurance. You can also try gentle massage techniques to help relax their muscles and release tension. Use a natural massage oil like CITTA’s Nourishing Baby Massage Oil for newborns, formulated with a unique blend of 12 oils like coconut oil, ashwagandha oil and olive oil, to nourish and hydrate your little one’s delicate skin while promoting relaxation. Use Pacifiers or Comfort Objects: Pacifiers can provide comfort and distraction for a fussy baby, helping to satisfy their natural instinct to suck. Offer a clean pacifier to your baby to see if it helps to soothe them. Additionally, some babies may find comfort in a special blanket, stuffed animal or other comfort object that they can hold onto while they calm down. Warm Bath for Sound Sleep: A soothing, warm bath can help your infant fall asleep more easily as it cools down the body temperature. Make sure the water is warm and not hot. Support your baby’s head and back with one hand and use a gentle baby wash like CITTA’s Tender Foaming Baby Wash for babies and newborns to cleanse. Speak to your pediatrician about the most appropriate type of sponge bath for your baby. If the umbilical cord hasn’t fallen off, avoid putting your little one in a tub. Practice Kangaroo Care: Kangaroo care, also known as skin-to-skin contact, involves holding your baby against your bare chest. This practice has been shown to regulate a baby’s body temperature, heart rate, and breathing, as well as promote bonding between parent and child. Kangaroo care can be particularly effective in calming a fussy baby, especially premature infants or those experiencing colic. Offer Feeding or Comfort Nursing: If your baby is crying due to hunger or seeking comfort, offering a feeding or comfort nursing session can help calm them down. Breastfeeding provides not only nourishment but also comfort and emotional bonding between parent and child. If you’re bottle-feeding, hold your baby close and make eye contact while offering the bottle to help them feel secure and loved. Pro-tip Remember to stay calm and patient when dealing with a fussy baby. Babies can pick up on their parents’ stress and anxiety easily, which can escalate their fussiness. Take deep breaths, practice mindfulness techniques, and remind yourself that this phase is temporary. Reach out to your partner, family members, or friends for support if you need a break or some extra help. The Bottom Line Calming a fussy baby requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to try different soothing techniques until you find what works best for your little one. Despite the challenges, it’s the journey that holds the beauty of parenthood, shaping experiences. Try to create a nurturing environment at home to make your baby feel safe and loved, just like CITTA’s gently formulated baby care range, curated to nurture your baby’s delicate skin with care and compassion. If you have any suggestions or concerns, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. Happy Parenting! References: https://www.lancastergeneralhealth.org/health-hub-home/motherhood/fourth-trimester/5-tips-and-tricks-for-calming-a-fussy-baby https://www.jnj.com/health-and-wellness/7-secrets-baby-sleep-expert#:~:text=Bedtime%20Secret%3A%20Draw%20a%20Warm%20Bath&text=After%20coming%20out%20of%20a,infant%20fall%20asleep%20more%20easily. https://takingcarababies.com/do-baths-help-babies-sleep https://www.lancastergeneralhealth.org/health-hub-home/motherhood/fourth-trimester/5-tips-and-tricks-for-calming-a-fussy-baby
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5 Quick Tips to Soothe and Prevent Diaper Rash
One of the common concerns of new parents and caregivers is diaper rash, which accounts for almost 20% of all childhood visits to a doctor. Now, what exactly is a...
5 Quick Tips to Soothe and Prevent Diaper Rash
One of the common concerns of new parents and caregivers is diaper rash, which accounts for almost 20% of all childhood visits to a doctor. Now, what exactly is a diaper rash? Red and painful, diaper rashes thrive in moist and warm environments. Often, infants who have an underlying skin condition, like eczema, are more prone to getting a diaper rash quite frequently. With the correct approach, diaper rashes can be kept at bay. Here, we have shared 5 quick tips, to help you keep your little one comfortable. After all the happier the bottoms, the happier the baby! Keep the Area Clean & Dry Keeping the diaper area squeaky clean and dry is one of the most effective ways to prevent diaper rash. Be vigilant, and change your little one’s diaper frequently, ideally every 2-3 hours, and as soon as it becomes wet or soiled. Use a soft cloth and warm water to clean the area during diaper changes but make sure to pat it dry. Refrain from using alcohol-based wipes or harsh soaps as they can irritate your baby’s delicate skin. Allow a Diaper-Free Time Let your baby go diaper-free for a couple of minutes every day. It helps reduce moisture buildup and promote airflow in that area. Lay your baby on a towel or a waterproof mat and let them play freely for some time without a diaper. Choose the Right Diapers Getting your hands on the right diapers can make a huge difference in preventing diaper rash. Opt for dermatologist-recommended diapers that are breathable and absorbent. Refrain from using diapers with fragrances or dyes, as these additives can irritate sensitive skin. Opt for overnight diapers with extra absorbency to keep your baby’s bottoms dry and happy for longer stretches. Use a Diaper Rash Cream Applying a diaper rash cream to your baby’s diaper area can create a protective barrier while preventing moisture from irritating the skin. Consider getting diaper rash creams containing zinc oxide and natural, certified ingredients, which can soothe redness and inflammation. How to Apply a Diaper Rash Cream? Cleanse your little one’s delicate skin thoroughly with a soft cloth and warm water, and pat it dry (don’t rub). Apply a thin layer of cream to clean, dry skin at each diaper change. Pay special attention to areas prone to irritation, such as the buttocks, genitals, and creases. Put on a new diaper, and make sure it is not placed too tightly as friction can worsen the rash. Be Mindful of Diet and Hydration In some cases, diaper rash may be triggered by certain foods or beverages in your baby’s diet. If you are breastfeeding, pay attention to your own and consider consuming nutrient-rich foods. For formula-fed babies, consult with your pediatrician if you suspect food sensitivity. Additionally, ensure your baby stays well-hydrated to help flush out irritants from their system. Pro-tip According to studies, an oatmeal bath can help reduce the pain and inflammation caused by a diaper rash. Consider choosing a Gentle Foaming Baby Shampoo for newborns and babies, infused with oat kernel flour that will help keep them clean and healthy. Final Thoughts Dealing with diaper rash can be stressful for parents and caregivers, but with these quick tips, you can effectively soothe and prevent diaper rash for your little one. If the diaper rash persists or worsens, make sure to consult your pediatrician as it can indicate an underlying condition for professional assistance.
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