Colored Contact Lenses 101: Safety, Styles, and Selection Tips

April 26, 2025 Thắng Đàm Quyết

Colored contact lenses represent the perfect fusion of medical science and fashion innovation, offering wearers the opportunity to temporarily transform their eye color while potentially correcting vision issues. These specialized lenses have evolved from basic medical devices to sophisticated fashion accessories that can subtly enhance natural eye color or create dramatic transformations for special occasions, cosplay, or everyday style experimentation.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about colored contact lenses—from understanding the different types available and how they work to crucial safety considerations and selection tips that match your unique features.

Whether you're a first-time user curious about trying colored contacts or an experienced wearer looking to expand your knowledge, this article provides essential information to help you make informed decisions while prioritizing eye health.

Understanding Colored Contact Lenses

At their core, colored contact lenses work through a surprisingly simple yet ingenious mechanism. The colored part of these lenses contains specially designed tints and patterns printed directly onto the lens material.

These colored patterns cover the iris (the colored part of your eye) while leaving a clear center to allow light to pass through to your pupil.

Modern colored contacts are created using advanced printing technologies that layer colors to create a natural-looking or deliberately dramatic appearance.

The color appears when light reflects off the tinted patterns. The effectiveness of colored contacts varies based on your natural eye color—those with lighter eyes may need less opaque lenses to achieve a color change compared to those with darker eyes.

Types of Colored Contact Lenses Based on Function

Colored contact lenses are available in both prescription and non-prescription varieties, serving different purposes:

Prescription Colored Contacts: These lenses correct vision issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism while also changing or enhancing eye color.
Non-Prescription (Plano) Colored Contacts: These lenses change eye color without affecting vision. Despite not correcting vision, they still require a valid prescription from an eye doctor as they're considered medical devices.
Theatrical or Special Effect Lenses: These are specialized colored contacts designed for dramatic transformations, including costume effects, theatrical performances, or cosplay.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, all contact lenses—regardless of whether they correct vision—require proper fitting by an eye care professional to prevent potential eye injuries or infections.

Understanding Different Tint Types

Colored contacts utilize several tint technologies to achieve different effects:

Visibility Tints: These light blue or green tints don't change eye color but make lenses easier to see during handling and insertion.
Enhancement Tints: These translucent tints are designed to intensify your natural eye color rather than completely change it. They work best for people with lighter eye colors.
Opaque Tints: These solid tints completely cover your natural eye color, allowing people with darker eyes to dramatically change their eye color.
Blended or Limbal Ring Tints: These incorporate darker edges around the iris to create definition and a more natural-looking color transition.

Types and Styles of Colored Contacts

The market offers several distinct categories of colored lenses, each designed for specific effects and purposes:

Exploring Tint Options for Different Effects

Visibility Tints

Unlike enhancement and opaque tints, visibility tints don't change your eye color. These light blue or green tints serve a purely functional purpose:

Making lenses easier to see during handling
Helping you find them if dropped
Assisting with proper orientation during insertion

The tint is so slight that once on your eye, it doesn't affect your appearance.

Enhancement Tints

These subtly intensify your natural eye color rather than dramatically changing it. Enhancement tints work by:

Adding depth and vibrancy to your existing eye color
Creating a more defined look without appearing unnatural
Working best for people with lighter eye colors (blue, green, hazel, light brown)

Enhancement tints typically use translucent coloration that blends with your natural iris pattern, resulting in a refined enhancement that maintains your authentic look.

Opaque Tints

Designed for complete color transformation, opaque tints feature solid colors that cover your natural iris entirely. These lenses are ideal for:

People with darker eye colors seeking dramatic changes
Those wanting to try entirely different eye colors
Creating bold, noticeable transformations

Modern opaque lenses often incorporate multiple color layers and patterns to create a more natural-looking effect, avoiding the flat, artificial appearance of older colored lens technologies.

Blended Tints and Limbal Rings

These sophisticated designs combine multiple colors and include darker outer rings (limbal rings) that create definition between the iris and the whites of the eyes. This technology creates more natural-looking color transitions and depth.

Natural vs. Dramatic Looks: Choosing Your Aesthetic

Creating a Natural Enhancement

For a natural look, consider these guidelines:

Choose colors that are a slight variation of your natural eye color
Select lenses with intricate iris patterns that mimic natural eye details
Look for lenses with a gradual color blend from pupil to edge
Consider enhancement tints rather than fully opaque options

Achieving Dramatic Transformations

If you're seeking a bold change:

Opaque lenses provide the most dramatic color shifts
High-contrast colors create striking effects (like violet for brown eyes)
Special effect lenses with unique patterns can transform your look entirely
Consider theatrical lenses for cosplay, Halloween, or creative expression

Duration Options: Daily, Monthly, and Extended Wear

Colored contacts come in various replacement schedules:

Daily Disposable Colored Contacts

These are worn once and discarded. Benefits include:

Maximum hygiene with no cleaning required
Reduced risk of protein buildup and allergic reactions
Ideal for occasional wear for special events
Perfect for those new to colored contacts

Bi-weekly Colored Contacts

These lenses are replaced every two weeks and require daily cleaning and proper storage. They offer:

More economical than dailies for regular wearers
Less protein accumulation than monthly lenses

Monthly Colored Contacts

These can be worn daily for up to 30 days before replacement, requiring proper cleaning and storage. Benefits include:

Most cost-effective for regular wearers
Wide variety of color options
Typically made from durable materials

Dr. Melissa Barnett, Principal Optometrist at the UC Davis Eye Center, notes: "Each replacement schedule has its advantages, but daily disposables generally offer the healthiest option because they eliminate concerns about lens deposits, solution sensitivity, and compliance with lens care."

Selecting the Right Colored Contacts

Considerations for Your Natural Eye Color

Your natural eye color significantly impacts how colored lenses will look:

Dark brown eyes typically require opaque lenses for noticeable color changes
Lighter eyes (blue, green, gray, hazel) can use enhancement tints effectively
Consider complementary colors that work with your skin tone and hair color
Realistic expectations are important—some color transformations may look more natural than others

Many reputable retailers now offer virtual try-on technology to preview different colors before purchasing.

Material and Comfort Factors

The physical characteristics of your lenses directly affect comfort and eye health:

Silicone hydrogel materials offer superior oxygen permeability, reducing redness and dryness
Water content affects how the lens feels throughout the day (higher isn't always better)
Lens thickness impacts comfort, with thinner designs generally feeling more natural
Edge design affects how the lens interacts with your eyelid during blinking

Premium lenses often incorporate advanced technologies that maintain both color vibrancy and comfort.

How to Choose Suitable Lens for Your Natural Eye and Hair Color

Creating harmony between your colored contact lenses and your natural features significantly impacts how authentic your look appears.

For Dark Brown Eyes

Opaque lenses are necessary for a complete color change
Gray, violet, and blue create dramatic transformations
Honey or hazel can create a more subtle change

For Light Brown or Hazel Eyes

Enhancement tints work well
Green or blue tones can bring out natural flecks
Golden or amber tones create a warm, sun-kissed effect

For Blue Eyes

Enhancement tints in aqua or turquoise intensify natural color
Violet adds an unusual but complementary twist
Gray adds sophistication and depth

Hair Color Considerations

Blonde hair: Blue and green contacts create classic combinations
Red hair: Green lenses accentuate the natural contrast
Dark brown/black hair: Almost any lens color works, though gray, blue, and violet often create striking effects

Color expert and optometrist Dr. Rachel Weber suggests: "The most natural-looking colored contacts create a harmony between your skin tone, hair color, and the new eye color. When these elements work together, the result doesn't necessarily look 'natural' but appears intentional and flattering."

Selecting Based on Lifestyle and Occasion

Your choice of colored contacts should also reflect your lifestyle needs and the occasions for which you'll wear them.

Everyday Wear

For regular daily use, consider:

Subtle enhancement tints that won't draw excessive attention
High-quality materials with excellent oxygen permeability
Lenses with UV protection for outdoor activities
Moisture-retaining properties for all-day comfort

Special Occasions

For events, photoshoots, or special moments:

More dramatic opaque lenses can create memorable looks
Consider daily disposables to avoid care routines
Theatrical lenses for themed events or costumes
Lenses specially designed for photography (some regular lenses may reflect camera flash)

Professional Environments

In conservative workplaces:

Natural-looking enhancement tints
Subtle color shifts that appear polished and professional
Consistent wear to avoid colleagues noticing dramatic changes

Proper Care and Handling Procedures

Essential Hygiene Practices for Contact Lens Safety

Proper hygiene is non-negotiable for contact lens wearers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 million clinic and emergency room visits annually are related to eye infections, many linked to improper contact lens care.

Hand Washing Protocol

Before handling contacts:

Wash hands thoroughly with fragrance-free soap
Dry completely with a lint-free towel
Avoid moisturizing soaps that leave residue
Keep fingernails trimmed to prevent damaging lenses

Insertion and Removal Techniques

For safe handling:

Always insert and remove lenses in the same order to avoid mixing them
Place contacts on the white part of your eye first, then slide onto the cornea
Remove by sliding the lens off the cornea onto the white part before pinching gently
Never use fingernails to handle lenses

Storage Solutions and Cleaning Protocols

The American Optometric Association emphasizes that proper lens storage and cleaning are critical for preventing eye infections.

Disinfection Systems

Options include:

Multipurpose Solution: Cleans, rinses, disinfects, and stores lenses in one solution
Hydrogen Peroxide Systems: Provides deep cleaning but requires neutralization before wearing
Daily Cleaner: Used before multipurpose solution for enhanced protein removal

Case Maintenance

For lens case safety:

Rinse with fresh solution (never water) after each use
Allow to air dry completely between uses
Replace cases every 3 months
Clean cases with fresh solution, not water

Dr. Susan Resnick, a contact lens specialist, explains: "Many patients don't realize that lens cases are major sources of contamination. Water exposure is particularly dangerous, as it can introduce Acanthamoeba, a microorganism that causes a severe, sight-threatening infection."

When to Replace Your Colored Contacts

Adhering to replacement schedules is essential for eye health:

Daily disposables: Discard after a single use, never reuse
Two-week lenses: Replace after 14 days of wear, even if worn intermittently
Monthly lenses: Replace after 30 days, regardless of actual wearing time

Signs that indicate immediate replacement, regardless of schedule:

Discoloration or deposits on the lens
Tears or chips in the lens
Discomfort or increased awareness of the lens
Redness, irritation, or blurry vision
Lenses that have dried out or been exposed to contamination

Safety Considerations and FDA Regulations

The Medical Reality of Colored Contacts

Many newcomers to colored contact lenses mistakenly view them solely as cosmetic accessories, but it's crucial to understand that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies all contact lenses—colored or clear—as medical devices. This classification exists because contacts directly interact with the sensitive tissues of your eye, creating potential health risks if not properly fitted, used, and maintained.

Dr. Thomas Steinemann, spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, explains: "Even if you have perfect vision, you need to see an eye doctor to get fitted for decorative contacts and get a prescription. An eye doctor needs to measure your eye's shape and size to properly fit the contacts."

Prescription Requirements: Even for Non-Corrective Lenses

A common misconception is that non-prescription colored contacts don't require professional oversight. The truth is that all colored contacts, even those without vision correction, require a valid prescription. This requirement isn't about vision correction but about ensuring the lenses properly fit your unique eye structure.

An improper fit can cause serious complications, including:

Corneal abrasions (scratches on the eye's surface)
Bacterial infections
Allergic reactions
Reduced oxygen flow to the cornea
Vision impairment

The Dangers of Unauthorized Lenses

Purchasing colored contacts from unauthorized sources like costume shops, flea markets, or unreliable online retailers poses significant risks. A study published in the Journal of Forensic Sciences found that non-prescription decorative contacts can contain harmful chemicals like chlorine and other toxic dyes not approved for eye contact.

The American Optometric Association reports that unlicensed contacts have been found to contain:

Dangerous levels of bacteria
Lead
Microorganisms that can cause eye infections
Chemicals that can damage eye tissue

Selecting the Right Colored Contacts for Your Features

Matching Lenses to Your Skin Tone and Undertones

The most flattering colored contacts complement your skin's undertones—the subtle hues beneath your surface skin color. Understanding your undertones helps select lenses that look natural and harmonious with your overall appearance.

Cool Undertones

If your skin has pink, red, or bluish undertones (cool undertones), these colors typically look most flattering:

Blue tones (from pale ice blue to deep navy)
Gray shades (from silver to charcoal)
Violet or amethyst hues
Cool green tones with blue undertones

Warm Undertones

If your skin has golden, yellow, or peachy undertones (warm undertones), consider:

Amber or honey brown
Hazel with gold flecks
Warm green tones
Turquoise or teal shades

Neutral Undertones

Those with neutral undertones have the most flexibility and can wear most colors successfully, though very bright or unnatural colors may still create contrast that appears less natural.

Complementing Your Natural Eye and Hair Color

Creating harmony between your colored contact lenses and your natural features significantly impacts how authentic your look appears.

For Dark Brown Eyes

Opaque lenses are necessary for a complete color change
Gray, violet, and blue create dramatic transformations
Honey or hazel can create a more subtle change

For Light Brown or Hazel Eyes

Enhancement tints work well
Green or blue tones can bring out natural flecks
Golden or amber tones create a warm, sun-kissed effect

For Blue Eyes

Enhancement tints in aqua or turquoise intensify natural color
Violet adds an unusual but complementary twist
Gray adds sophistication and depth

Hair Color Considerations

Blonde hair: Blue and green contacts create classic combinations
Red hair: Green lenses accentuate the natural contrast
Dark brown/black hair: Almost any lens color works, though gray, blue, and violet often create striking effects

Selecting Based on Lifestyle and Occasion

Your choice of colored contacts should also reflect your lifestyle needs and the occasions for which you'll wear them.

Everyday Wear

For regular daily use, consider:

Subtle enhancement tints that won't draw excessive attention
High-quality materials with excellent oxygen permeability
Lenses with UV protection for outdoor activities
Moisture-retaining properties for all-day comfort

Special Occasions

For events, photoshoots, or special moments:

More dramatic opaque lenses can create memorable looks
Consider daily disposables to avoid care routines
Theatrical lenses for themed events or costumes
Lenses specially designed for photography (some regular lenses may reflect camera flash)

Professional Environments

In conservative workplaces:

Natural-looking enhancement tints
Subtle color shifts that appear polished and professional
Consistent wear to avoid colleagues noticing dramatic changes

Potential Risks and How to Avoid Them

Understanding Common Complications

Despite their popularity, colored contacts carry risks when improperly used or maintained:

Corneal Infections and Ulcers

Studies published in the Journal of Optometry show that contact lens wearers have a higher risk of developing corneal infections, with improper care being the primary cause. Symptoms include:

Severe pain
Redness
Light sensitivity
Discharge
Blurred vision

Corneal Hypoxia

When lenses prevent sufficient oxygen from reaching the cornea:

Blood vessels may grow into the cornea (neovascularization)
Corneal swelling can occur
Long-term damage is possible with extended wear

Allergic Reactions

Reactions to lens materials or care solutions can cause:

Itching and burning
Excessive tearing
Redness
Papillary conjunctivitis (bumps under the eyelids)

Prevention Through Proper Practices

The vast majority of complications are preventable through proper habits:

Follow replacement schedules exactly: Never extend the wear of disposable lenses
Never sleep in lenses unless specifically approved for overnight wear
Use only approved solutions for your specific lenses
Attend regular eye exams: At least annually for contact lens wearers
Remove lenses immediately if experiencing discomfort or redness
Never expose lenses to water: No swimming, showering, or rinsing in tap water
Replace cases regularly: Every three months at minimum

Dr. James Shovlin, a researcher specializing in contact lens complications, states: "Most serious eye infections related to contact lens wear could be prevented by following proper hygiene protocols. The single most important factor is handwashing before lens handling."

Proper Care and Handling Procedures

Essential Hygiene Practices for Contact Lens Safety

Hand Washing Protocol

Before handling contacts:

Wash hands thoroughly with fragrance-free soap
Dry completely with a lint-free towel
Avoid moisturizing soaps that leave residue
Keep fingernails trimmed to prevent damaging lenses

Insertion and Removal Techniques

For safe handling:

Always insert and remove lenses in the same order to avoid mixing them
Place contacts on the white part of your eye first, then slide onto the cornea
Remove by sliding the lens off the cornea onto the white part before pinching gently
Never use fingernails to handle lenses

Storage Solutions and Cleaning Protocols

The American Optometric Association emphasizes that proper lens storage and cleaning are critical for preventing eye infections.

Disinfection Systems

Options include:

Multipurpose Solution: Cleans, rinses, disinfects, and stores lenses in one solution
Hydrogen Peroxide Systems: Provides deep cleaning but requires neutralization before wearing
Daily Cleaner: Used before multipurpose solution for enhanced protein removal

Case Maintenance

For lens case safety:

Rinse with fresh solution (never water) after each use
Allow to air dry completely between uses
Replace cases every 3 months
Clean cases with fresh solution, not water

When to Replace Your Colored Contacts

Adhering to replacement schedules is essential for eye health:

Daily disposables: Discard after a single use, never reuse
Two-week lenses: Replace after 14 days of wear, even if worn intermittently
Monthly lenses: Replace after 30 days, regardless of actual wearing time

Signs that indicate immediate replacement, regardless of schedule:

Discoloration or deposits on the lens
Tears or chips in the lens
Discomfort or increased awareness of the lens
Redness, irritation, or blurry vision
Lenses that have dried out or been exposed to contamination

Common Questions About Colored Contact Lenses

Age Requirements for Wearing Colored Contacts

Many parents and teens wonder about age restrictions for colored contacts. While there's no legal minimum age for prescription contact lenses, eye care professionals typically consider several factors:

Maturity level and responsibility with handling and care
Ability to insert and remove lenses independently
Commitment to following cleaning protocols
Eye health and development

Dr. Jennifer Marshall, pediatric optometrist, notes: "I typically start fitting contacts around age 11-13, but it's highly individual. Some 10-year-olds are ready, while some 16-year-olds aren't. The key factor is responsibility, not age."

Parents of minors should be aware that a prescription is legally required regardless of age, and supervising proper care is essential for young wearers.

Before and After Expectations

First-time wearers often have questions about how colored contacts will look and feel.

Visual Appearance

Natural eye color significantly impacts results—darker eyes require opaque lenses for dramatic changes
Photos online often show idealized results that may differ from personal experience
Lighting conditions dramatically affect how colored contacts appear
Initial applications may look more noticeable to you than to others

Physical Sensations

First-time wearers should expect:

Initial awareness of the lens (should not be painful)
Slight adjustment period for comfort (1-3 days typically)
Minimal to no vision changes with properly fitted lenses
Slight darkening in very low light conditions with opaque lenses

Adjustment Period

Research from the Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists indicates most new wearers adapt within a week, with comfort improving each day.

Can You Share Colored Contacts?

This question has one definitive answer: Absolutely not. Sharing contact lenses is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious eye infections and complications.

Every eye has its own unique bacterial flora, and sharing lenses can transfer:

Bacteria
Viruses
Fungi
Parasites

The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports cases of severe infections, including cases leading to corneal transplants and vision loss, from shared contacts.

Even among family members or close friends, contact lenses should never be shared. Each person requires their own prescription fitting for proper eye health and comfort.

Tips for First-Time Wearers

Building Confidence with New Colored Contacts

If you're new to wearing colored contacts, these strategies can help ease the transition:

Start with short wearing periods: Begin with 4-6 hours and gradually increase wearing time
Practice insertion and removal: Master these techniques before your first full day of wear
Carry solution and a case: Be prepared in case you need to remove your lenses
Start with enhancement tints: These create a more subtle effect that can be less jarring initially
Have a backup plan: Bring glasses for your first few outings with contacts

Troubleshooting Common Issues

New wearers frequently encounter these challenges:

Discomfort or Awareness

Ensure lenses are not inside-out (edges should form a smooth bowl shape)
Check for deposits or debris and clean if necessary
Use lubricating drops approved for contact lenses
Confirm the lens is centered on your eye

Difficulty with Insertion

Work in a well-lit area with a flat mirror
Use your dominant hand for better control
Keep both eyes open during insertion to reduce flinching
Add a drop of solution to the lens before insertion

Redness or Irritation

Remove lenses immediately if irritation occurs
Check expiration dates on solutions and lenses
Consider sensitivity to solution ingredients
Consult your eye doctor if problems persist

Contact lens specialist Dr. Michael Wong advises: "Most initial discomfort with contacts is related to either improper insertion or dryness. Using preservative-free rewetting drops can significantly improve comfort for many new wearers."

Popular Brands and Recommendations

Best Options for Natural Enhancement

For those seeking subtle enhancement of their natural eye color, these highly-rated brands offer excellent options:

Bella Natural Collection: These lenses are designed with natural-looking patterns that enhance rather than completely change eye color, featuring a soft limbal ring for definition.
Acuvue Define: Specifically designed to enhance natural eye color with minimal color change, these lenses add definition and brightness.
Air Optix Colors: Offering three-in-one color technology that blends with your natural eye color, these are particularly good for light-eyed individuals looking for enhancement.

Eye fashion expert Samantha Chen comments: "The most natural-looking colored contacts feature intricate, multi-layered patterns that mimic the complex structure of the human iris. Brands that invest in this technology produce results that don't look 'costume-like'."

Top Choices for Dramatic Transformations

For those wanting bold, noticeable changes:

Bella Elite Collection: Offering vibrant colors with opaque technology that completely covers natural eye color.
Desio Color Lenses: Known for their highly pigmented colors that work well even on dark brown eyes.
TTDeye: Popular for costume and cosplay use with unique patterns and striking colors.
Solotica Hidrocor: Brazilian-made lenses known for their realistic appearance despite dramatic color changes.

Budget-Friendly Quality Options

Quality colored contacts available at more accessible price points:

Bella One-Day Contacts: Daily disposables eliminate care products while providing fresh lenses each day.
FreshLook ColorBlends: Available in numerous colors with blended technology for a natural look.
iColor Complete: Offers a wide range of colors at reasonable prices while maintaining good quality.

Optometrist Dr. Rebecca Zhang cautions: "While budget options exist, never compromise on FDA approval or obtaining a proper prescription. The cheapest options are often cheapest for a reason—they may use inferior materials or manufacturing processes that risk eye health."

Potential Risks and How to Avoid Them

Understanding Common Complications

Despite their popularity, colored contacts carry risks when improperly used or maintained:

Corneal Infections and Ulcers

Studies published in the Journal of Optometry show that contact lens wearers have a higher risk of developing corneal infections, with improper care being the primary cause. Symptoms include:

Severe pain
Redness
Light sensitivity
Discharge
Blurred vision

Corneal Hypoxia

When lenses prevent sufficient oxygen from reaching the cornea:

Blood vessels may grow into the cornea (neovascularization)
Corneal swelling can occur
Long-term damage is possible with extended wear

Allergic Reactions

Reactions to lens materials or care solutions can cause:

Itching and burning
Excessive tearing
Redness
Papillary conjunctivitis (bumps under the eyelids)

Prevention Through Proper Practices

The vast majority of complications are preventable through proper habits:

Follow replacement schedules exactly: Never extend the wear of disposable lenses
Never sleep in lenses unless specifically approved for overnight wear
Use only approved solutions for your specific lenses
Attend regular eye exams: At least annually for contact lens wearers
Remove lenses immediately if experiencing discomfort or redness
Never expose lenses to water: No swimming, showering, or rinsing in tap water
Replace cases regularly: Every three months at minimum

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices for Eye Health and Style

Colored contact lenses offer an exciting way to transform your appearance temporarily, but this transformation comes with responsibilities. By understanding the proper selection, care, and usage of colored contacts, you can enjoy their aesthetic benefits while maintaining optimal eye health.

Remember these key takeaways:

All colored contacts require a valid prescription and professional fitting, even non-corrective lenses
Select colors that complement your skin tone, natural eye color, and intended purpose
Never compromise on quality or safety by purchasing from unauthorized sources
Follow strict hygiene protocols to prevent complications
Adhere to recommended replacement schedules
Immediately discontinue use if you experience discomfort or redness

When approached with knowledge and responsibility, colored contact lenses can be a safe, fun way to enhance your natural features or create dramatic transformations for special occasions. Whether you're looking for subtle enhancement or bold changes, the wide variety of options available today means you can find lenses that perfectly match your style goals while prioritizing the health of your eyes.

By consulting with eye care professionals and using only FDA-approved products, you can enjoy the creative possibilities of colored contacts with confidence and peace of mind.

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