Cellulite: The Bold Guide to Banishing It from Hips, Thighs, and Buttocks
Introduction: Understanding the Battle Against Cellulite
Let’s be honest—cellulite is something most women battle with at some point. Those dimpled, uneven patches on your hips, thighs, and buttocks can make you feel self-conscious, even though they’re completely normal. In fact, around 90% of women experience cellulite after puberty. But just because it’s common doesn’t mean you can’t do something about it.
This bold guide is all about understanding what cellulite is, why it forms, and how you can actually minimize its appearance using science-backed methods, lifestyle changes, and smart skincare routines. From home remedies and nutrition to medical treatments and confidence-boosting hacks, we’ll uncover every angle so you can take back control of your body’s texture.
Ready to smooth things out? Let’s dive deep into the truth about cellulite and uncover the best ways to banish it—naturally, effectively, and confidently.
What Exactly Is Cellulite?
Cellulite isn’t just “fat.” It’s a complex condition that involves fat cells pushing through the connective tissue beneath the skin, leading to that characteristic “orange peel” or “cottage cheese” texture. The skin becomes uneven because of fibrous cords pulling it down while fat pushes up, creating dimples and lumps.
Here’s the kicker—cellulite isn’t necessarily a sign of being overweight. Even slim and athletic women can have it. The main difference lies in how fat is distributed and how the connective tissues behave. Men rarely get cellulite because their connective tissue structure is crisscrossed, providing more support, whereas women’s fibers are vertical, making dimpling more visible.
In essence, cellulite is a structural issue rather than purely a fat issue. The good news? Structural issues can be improved through circulation-boosting exercises, collagen-supporting nutrition, and targeted treatments.
So, while you can’t “erase” cellulite completely, you can absolutely transform the texture of your skin and reduce its visibility significantly.
The Main Causes of Cellulite
Cellulite formation isn’t random—it’s influenced by several internal and external factors. Let’s break them down:
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Hormonal Influence: Estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, and thyroid hormones all play key roles in fat storage and connective tissue structure. As estrogen levels drop (especially during menopause), circulation decreases, collagen weakens, and fat cells expand, making cellulite more noticeable.
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Poor Circulation and Lymphatic Drainage: When blood and lymph flow slow down, toxins and fluids accumulate under the skin. This stagnation leads to swelling, inflammation, and fat cell enlargement—creating the perfect environment for cellulite.
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Diet and Lifestyle Habits: Diets high in processed foods, salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats contribute to toxin buildup and fluid retention. Smoking, alcohol, and sedentary lifestyles worsen it further by weakening skin and connective tissue.
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Genetic Predisposition: If your mother or grandmother had cellulite, you’re more likely to have it too. Genes affect fat distribution, skin elasticity, and metabolism—all linked to cellulite.
While some causes are beyond your control, understanding them empowers you to make changes that can drastically minimize cellulite’s appearance.
The Different Types of Cellulite
Did you know cellulite isn’t one-size-fits-all? In fact, there are three main types, each requiring different approaches:
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Soft Cellulite: This type is squishy, moves when you touch it, and often appears in women who have lost weight or have poor muscle tone. It’s common on the thighs and buttocks.
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Hard Cellulite: Firm and attached to the muscle layer, hard cellulite is less visible when standing but more noticeable when pinched. It’s common in active or younger individuals.
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Edematous Cellulite: The least common but most severe, edematous cellulite is linked to poor circulation and fluid retention. It’s often painful and appears swollen or puffy.
Identifying which type you have is the first step to targeting it correctly. For instance, soft cellulite benefits from muscle toning, while edematous types need circulation-boosting and drainage-focused treatments.
How to Identify the Severity of Cellulite
You can’t fix what you can’t measure, right? That’s why identifying the severity of your cellulite helps tailor your plan.
Try the pinch test—pinch the skin on your thigh or buttock between your thumb and forefinger:
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If the skin looks smooth, congratulations—you’re cellulite-free.
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If slight dimples appear, you have mild cellulite.
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If the dimples are visible without pinching, that’s moderate to severe.
Cellulite is often classified into four grades:
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Grade 0: No visible cellulite, even when pinched.
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Grade 1: Dimples visible when pinched.
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Grade 2: Visible when standing but smooth when lying down.
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Grade 3: Visible both when standing and lying down, often deep and uneven.
Knowing where you stand helps track progress as you follow a treatment or fitness plan.
Common Myths About Cellulite You Need to Stop Believing
Let’s clear the air—there’s a lot of misinformation about cellulite floating around. From miracle creams to quick-fix diets, it’s easy to get lost in myths that promise overnight results. But cellulite isn’t something that disappears in a week—it’s a structural issue beneath your skin. Understanding what’s true (and what’s not) can save you money, time, and frustration.
Myth #1: Only Overweight People Get Cellulite
This is one of the biggest misconceptions. Even models, athletes, and slim women can have cellulite. It has less to do with fat quantity and more with how your connective tissue holds fat beneath your skin. Genetics, hormones, and skin thickness play a much bigger role.
Myth #2: You Can Eliminate Cellulite Completely
Sorry, but there’s no “cure” for cellulite. However, you can dramatically reduce its appearance. Through consistent exercise, improved circulation, healthy eating, and certain professional treatments, you can achieve smoother, firmer skin that looks visibly better.
Myth #3: Expensive Creams Are the Answer
Most over-the-counter creams promise miracles but only offer temporary tightening. The truth is, unless a product contains clinically proven ingredients like caffeine, retinol, or peptides—and you use it consistently—it won’t do much.
Myth #4: Cardio Alone Will Erase Cellulite
Cardio helps burn fat, but it doesn’t address weak connective tissue. Strength training, on the other hand, builds muscle and improves skin tone, which helps minimize dimpling over time.
Myth #5: Cellulite Means You’re Unhealthy
Absolutely false. Cellulite is a natural part of the human body—especially the female body. It’s influenced by structure, not sickness. So, don’t let a few dimples define your health or worth.
The takeaway? Don’t fall for quick-fix myths. Focus on consistent, realistic approaches that support your skin and body holistically.
The Role of Diet in Reducing Cellulite
If you’ve ever heard the phrase “you are what you eat,” cellulite is the perfect example. Diet directly affects how your body stores fat, eliminates toxins, and maintains skin elasticity—all factors that influence cellulite formation.
Let’s start with what helps:
✅ Foods That Fight Cellulite:
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Leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula): Rich in antioxidants that protect collagen and improve circulation.
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Berries (blueberries, strawberries): Packed with vitamin C, which helps repair skin tissue and prevent breakdown.
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Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel): Full of omega-3s that strengthen skin and reduce inflammation.
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Citrus fruits: Promote lymphatic drainage and detoxify the body.
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Green tea: A metabolism booster and powerful antioxidant that helps burn fat and remove toxins.
Foods to Avoid:
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Processed snacks: High in salt and sugar, they cause water retention and fat accumulation.
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Refined carbs: White bread, pasta, and pastries spike insulin and encourage fat storage.
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Soda and alcohol: Dehydrate the skin and weaken connective tissue.
Hydration Is Non-Negotiable
Drinking at least 2–3 liters of water a day flushes out toxins and keeps skin supple. Adding lemon or cucumber slices can enhance detox effects naturally.
Your diet can’t completely erase cellulite, but it can make a massive difference in how your skin looks and feels. Think of food as skincare from the inside out.
Exercise: Your Natural Cellulite Buster
Exercise is one of the most powerful and natural ways to reduce cellulite. Why? Because it attacks the problem from multiple angles—reducing fat, improving blood flow, and tightening muscles that lift and smooth the skin.
Here’s what works best:
️♀️ Strength Training:
Building lean muscle under the skin gives your thighs and buttocks a firmer appearance. Focus on:
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Squats: Tighten glutes and thighs.
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Lunges: Strengthen lower body and improve circulation.
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Deadlifts: Sculpt the hamstrings and glutes.
Cardio Workouts:
Cardio burns fat and boosts blood flow. Opt for:
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Brisk walking
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Swimming
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Cycling
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Jump rope sessions
♀️ Stretching and Flexibility:
Stretching enhances circulation and lymphatic flow, which helps flush toxins that contribute to cellulite. Yoga and Pilates are fantastic options for this.
Pro Tip: Mix cardio with resistance training for the best results. Aim for 4–5 workouts per week, and remember—consistency beats intensity. Within a few weeks, your skin will start feeling tighter and smoother.
Top Home Remedies for Cellulite Reduction
You don’t need to spend a fortune to start treating cellulite. Some of the best remedies are already sitting in your bathroom or kitchen.
✨ 1. Dry Brushing:
A centuries-old technique that improves circulation and exfoliates dead skin. Use a natural bristle brush and gently brush your skin in circular motions toward your heart for 5–10 minutes daily before showering.
☕ 2. Coffee Scrub:
Caffeine tightens skin and improves blood flow. Mix:
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½ cup coffee grounds
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2 tablespoons coconut oil
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1 tablespoon sugar
Massage it into your thighs and buttocks for 10 minutes, then rinse.
3. Essential Oil Massage:
Oils like juniper, rosemary, and grapefruit help detoxify tissues. Mix a few drops with carrier oil and massage into affected areas.
4. Cold Showers and Ice Massages:
They stimulate circulation and tighten the skin, giving an instant smoother look.
♀️ 5. Apple Cider Vinegar Wrap:
Combine apple cider vinegar and water (1:1 ratio), soak a cloth, and wrap it around cellulite-prone areas for 30 minutes.
Used consistently, these home remedies can noticeably improve your skin’s texture within a few weeks. Combine them with exercise and diet for maximum results.
Professional Treatments That Actually Work
Sometimes, you want faster or more dramatic results—and that’s where professional treatments come in. Not all are equal, though, so here are the most effective ones backed by science:
Laser and Radiofrequency Treatments:
These use heat to stimulate collagen and break down fat cells beneath the skin. Results can be seen after a few sessions and improve over time.
Acoustic Wave Therapy:
This technique uses sound waves to disrupt fibrous bands under the skin. It smooths dimples and enhances firmness with minimal discomfort.
Mesotherapy:
A series of microinjections deliver vitamins, enzymes, and plant extracts to dissolve fat and improve circulation.
Subcision:
A minor surgical procedure where a needle is inserted under the skin to break up fibrous tissue. It provides long-lasting results for severe cellulite.
Each treatment varies in cost, recovery time, and effectiveness, so consult a dermatologist or aesthetic specialist before starting.
Understanding the Role of Collagen in Cellulite
Collagen is the protein that keeps your skin firm, smooth, and elastic. Think of it as the scaffolding that supports your skin structure. When collagen production slows down—whether from aging, poor diet, or hormonal changes—your skin becomes weaker and less able to hold fat cells in place. This leads to those familiar dimples that define cellulite.
As you age, collagen production naturally drops by about 1% per year after your mid-20s. Combine that with factors like dehydration, lack of exercise, or smoking, and the loss of firmness accelerates. The connective tissues beneath your skin (called septae) become stiffer, while fat cells push upward, creating uneven texture.
To fight back, focus on collagen-boosting habits:
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Protein-rich foods: Lean meats, eggs, and beans support collagen synthesis.
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Vitamin C: Found in citrus, berries, and bell peppers—it’s vital for collagen production.
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Bone broth and collagen peptides: These provide the amino acids your body uses to repair skin structure.
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Retinol-based creams: Topically, retinol stimulates collagen regeneration, helping tighten the skin over time.
Collagen doesn’t just reduce cellulite—it also gives your skin a youthful bounce and glow. Supporting your body’s natural collagen levels is one of the smartest long-term strategies for smoother skin.
How Hormones Affect Cellulite Formation
Hormones are the unsung drivers behind cellulite. They regulate fat storage, water retention, and skin elasticity—all critical factors in whether cellulite appears or worsens.
The key player? Estrogen. When estrogen levels decline (especially during menopause), circulation slows, and collagen weakens. This allows fat cells to expand and push against connective tissue, creating visible dimples.
Other hormones also play a role:
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Insulin: High levels encourage fat storage. A diet heavy in refined carbs and sugar spikes insulin, leading to more cellulite.
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Cortisol (stress hormone): Chronic stress increases cortisol, which breaks down collagen and promotes fat accumulation in the hips and thighs.
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Thyroid hormones: An underactive thyroid can reduce metabolism and slow lymphatic drainage, making cellulite worse.
To balance hormones naturally:
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Eat a diet rich in omega-3s, fiber, and antioxidants.
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Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep.
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Exercise regularly to reduce stress and improve circulation.
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Limit alcohol and caffeine intake, as both can disrupt hormone balance.
Understanding your hormones gives you control. Once you know what’s affecting your skin from the inside, you can make smarter choices to restore balance and tone.
Lifestyle Changes for Long-Term Results
Here’s the truth: No cream or treatment will work if your daily habits undo your progress. Long-term cellulite reduction starts with lifestyle.
Manage Stress:
Stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it affects your body chemistry. High cortisol weakens collagen and encourages fat storage. Incorporate stress-busting activities like yoga, journaling, meditation, or even dancing around your living room.
Prioritize Sleep:
Your skin repairs itself while you sleep. Aim for at least 7 hours per night to allow proper cell renewal and hormone regulation.
Quit Smoking:
Smoking restricts blood flow and damages collagen, making cellulite worse. If you’re serious about improving skin texture, quitting is non-negotiable.
Move More Throughout the Day:
Even light activity like walking, stretching, or taking the stairs helps increase blood flow and lymphatic drainage—two things cellulite hates.
Clean Eating:
Stick to natural, unprocessed foods and cut down on added sugars, trans fats, and sodium. Your skin will thank you.
Think of lifestyle changes as the foundation of any cellulite-reduction strategy. They’re free, sustainable, and 100% effective when practiced consistently.
Natural Supplements for Smoother Skin
Supplements can complement your diet and fill nutritional gaps that affect your skin’s appearance. The right ones can boost collagen, enhance circulation, and strengthen connective tissue.
1. Collagen Peptides:
These hydrolyzed proteins help rebuild the collagen matrix under your skin. Taken daily, they can improve elasticity and firmness.
2. Ginkgo Biloba:
A powerful herb that increases circulation and reduces fluid retention—key for fighting cellulite.
3. Antioxidants (Vitamin C, E, and A):
They neutralize free radicals that break down collagen and elastin.
4. Gotu Kola:
Known to improve connective tissue and reduce the appearance of cellulite by stimulating collagen production.
5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Found in fish oil, they keep cell membranes strong and hydrated, leading to smoother skin.
While supplements aren’t magic pills, they provide the building blocks your body needs for visible improvements when paired with exercise and healthy eating.
Can Men Get Cellulite Too?
Yes—but much less frequently than women. The reason lies in biology. Men’s connective tissues are structured in a crisscross pattern, which prevents fat from bulging through like it does in women’s vertical fibers. Additionally, men have thicker skin and less body fat in cellulite-prone areas.
However, men can develop cellulite, especially if they have hormonal imbalances (low testosterone, high estrogen), poor circulation, or unhealthy lifestyles. It most often appears on the abdomen or thighs.
The same strategies that work for women—exercise, healthy eating, hydration, and circulation-boosting techniques—apply equally to men. The key difference? Men usually respond faster to treatments because of their skin structure and muscle density.
So yes, guys, cellulite doesn’t discriminate—but the good news is, it’s beatable with consistency.
Fashion and Confidence: Dressing Smart to Hide Cellulite
While you work on reducing cellulite, there’s no reason you can’t look amazing right now. Fashion can be your best friend for confidence.
Go for Structured Fabrics:
Avoid clingy materials that highlight dimples. Denim, linen, and thicker leggings provide smooth coverage.
Stick to Dark Colors:
Darker tones like black, navy, or charcoal slim your silhouette and make uneven textures less noticeable.
High-Waisted and Supportive Fits:
High-rise jeans, compression leggings, and shapewear smooth the hips and thighs instantly.
Play with Patterns:
Small prints, ruching, and textures distract the eye from imperfections while adding style.
Confidence is the best outfit you can wear. Remember, cellulite is natural—rock your clothes with pride while working toward your goals.
Daily Cellulite-Fighting Routine
Creating a consistent daily routine will transform your results. Here’s a simple plan to follow:
Morning Routine:
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Drink warm lemon water to kickstart detox.
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Do a quick 5-minute dry brushing session.
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Apply a caffeine or retinol-based firming cream.
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Eat a protein-rich breakfast to support collagen.
Daytime Habits:
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Stay hydrated—carry a water bottle everywhere.
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Avoid sitting for long periods; move every hour.
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Snack on fruits, nuts, and vegetables.
Evening Routine:
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Massage problem areas with essential oils or body roller.
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Take a short walk or light stretch to boost circulation.
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Enjoy a collagen drink before bed.
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Get at least 7 hours of sleep for recovery.
Weekly Additions:
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Exfoliate twice a week with a coffee scrub.
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Treat yourself to an Epsom salt bath for detox and relaxation.
Following this routine keeps your skin nourished, stimulated, and firm over time.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried diet, exercise, and home care but still see little improvement, it may be time to seek professional guidance.
A dermatologist or cosmetic specialist can evaluate your cellulite type, skin health, and circulation, then recommend targeted treatments. This may include laser therapy, microneedling, or subcision—procedures that work below the skin’s surface where cellulite originates.
Seek help if:
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Cellulite is severe or painful.
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It’s affecting your confidence or mental health.
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You’re unsure which treatment is safe or effective.
Remember, there’s no shame in seeking expert help. Combining professional advice with your daily efforts can yield remarkable, long-lasting results.
Long-Term Maintenance: How to Keep Cellulite Away
Once you’ve improved your skin texture, maintenance is key. Cellulite can return if old habits creep back.
✅ Stick to your workout routine.
✅ Eat clean, unprocessed foods most of the time.
✅ Stay hydrated every day.
✅ Keep stress levels under control.
✅ Do regular massages or dry brushing to boost circulation.
Make cellulite prevention part of your lifestyle, not a temporary fix. The more consistent you are, the smoother your skin will stay.
Conclusion: Embrace, Treat, and Transform Your Skin
Cellulite is not a flaw—it’s a part of being human. Nearly every woman has it, yet society often makes us feel ashamed of it. The real goal isn’t perfection—it’s confidence.
By understanding what causes cellulite and adopting a holistic approach that includes healthy eating, regular exercise, smart skincare, and self-love, you can transform not only your skin but how you feel in it.
Embrace your body while working on it. Smooth skin is achievable—but confidence is magnetic.
FAQs About Cellulite
1. Can cellulite go away permanently?
Not completely, but it can be minimized and managed long-term through diet, exercise, and consistent care.
2. How long does it take to see results?
With dedication, visible changes can appear in 6–12 weeks, depending on your starting point.
3. Are cellulite creams effective?
Some are, especially those with caffeine, retinol, or peptides—but they work best when paired with a healthy lifestyle.
4. Does losing weight reduce cellulite?
Weight loss can help, but it’s not a cure. It reduces fat volume but doesn’t fix the connective tissue structure.
5. Is it possible to prevent cellulite?
You can’t prevent it entirely, but you can delay or reduce its appearance with proper nutrition, hydration, and regular physical activity.
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