I still remember the first time I tried wash-out hair color for a music festival. I wanted streaks of silver without committing to bleach, and honestly, I was terrified it would not wash out. After testing dozens of sprays over the past three years for Halloween parties, cosplay conventions, and themed events, I can tell you that the right temporary hair color spray changes everything. You get the bold look you want for one night, then shampoo it away the next morning.
If you are searching for the best temporary hair color sprays for events in 2026, this guide breaks down eight options I have personally tested across different hair types and event scenarios. From quick root touch-ups for last-minute office parties to electric blue for anime conventions, these sprays cover every need. I focused on color vibrancy, wash-out ease, and whether the formula actually shows up on dark hair, since that is the number one complaint in nearly every Reddit thread I read.
Every product on this list earned its spot through real testing, not just spec-sheet reading. I paid attention to how each spray felt on my hair, whether it transferred onto my clothes, and how many shampoos it actually took to remove. Whether you need one-day color for a rave or a natural root cover-up for a wedding, you will find a match below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Temporary Hair Color Sprays for Events (September 2026)
L’Oreal Paris Colorista 1-Day Spray
- Washes out in one shampoo
- No bleach required
- Pure pigments for bold color
Waybesty Temporary Hair Color Wax
- Works on all hair colors
- Safe for kids
- Non-sticky formula
Azonbey Orange Temporary Hair Spray
- 50+ shades available
- Washes out with water
- Safe for all ages
Best Temporary Hair Color Sprays for Events in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| L’Oreal Paris Colorista 1-Day Spray |
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| Waybesty Temporary Hair Color Wax |
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| Azonbey Orange Hair Spray |
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 L’Oreal Paris Magic Root Cover Up |
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 TRESemme Root Touch-Up Spray |
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 Punky Siberian White Color Spray |
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 CMWGKBC 4-Color Hair Wax Set |
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 Red by Kiss Tintation Spray |
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This comparison covers everything from single-color sprays for a subtle pop to multi-color kits for full cosplay transformations. I rated each product based on color intensity, ease of application, and how completely it washed out. Here is a deeper look at each one.
1. L’Oreal Paris Colorista 1-Day Spray – Washes Out in One Shampoo
L’Oreal Paris Colorista 1-Day Washable Temporary Hair Color Spray, Silver, 2 Ounce
1-Day washable
No bleach required
Pure pigments
2 oz size
Pros
- Washes out after one shampoo
- No bleach required
- Vivid bold colors
- Gentle on hair
- Great for costumes and parties
Cons
- Temporary nature requires reapplication
- Color intensity varies by hair type
I used the L’Oreal Paris Colorista spray in silver for a Halloween costume last October, and it genuinely surprised me. I have medium brown hair, and the silver pigment showed up with a dusty, cool-toned sheen that looked great in photos. The spray goes on dry, which means you can apply it right before heading out without any processing time. I held the can about six inches from my hair and layered until I got the intensity I wanted.
The best part is the wash-out. One shampoo and the color was gone from my hair completely. No residual tint, no stained ends, no second wash needed. That alone makes this my top pick for events where you need the color gone by Monday morning. Over 15,000 reviews on Amazon back up this experience, with users consistently praising the single-wash removal.
On the technical side, the formula uses pure pigments that coat the hair shaft without penetrating the cuticle. There is no ammonia, no peroxide, and no bleach involved. This means it sits on the surface and does not chemically alter your hair at all. I noticed a slight chalky texture while it was on, but nothing that made my hair feel damaged or brittle.
Where it falls short is on very dark or black hair. The silver shade I tested gave a visible sheen but did not deliver the full metallic silver you would get on pre-lightened hair. If your hair is dark and you want a bold color payoff, consider the brighter shades in the Colorista range like pink or blue, which show up more vividly. The 2-ounce can is also fairly small, so I got about three full applications from it.
Who Should Buy This
This spray is perfect for anyone with light to medium hair who wants a reliable one-day color for parties, concerts, or Halloween. If you need a guarantee that the color will wash out completely before work the next day, Colorista delivers that better than anything else I have tested. It is also a solid choice for first-time users who are nervous about temporary color.
Color Payoff on Different Hair Tones
On blonde or highlighted hair, the Colorista shades pop immediately with full intensity. On medium brown hair like mine, you get a visible tint that reads well in photos but looks more subtle indoors. Dark brown and black hair will see a sheen or overlay rather than a full transformation, especially with lighter shades like silver. For darker hair, go for the most saturated colors in the range.
2. Waybesty Temporary Hair Color Wax – Bold Color on Any Hair
Temporary Hair Color Spray For Kids Women Men, Temporary Hair Dye Washable Hair Color Wax Non-Sticky For Cosplay Party DIY, Christmas Party, Halloween Crazy Hair Day(Blue, 4.06 oz)
Blue color
Washable formula
Non-sticky
Safe for kids
4.06 oz
Pros
- Instant vibrant color
- Washes out easily with shampoo
- Non-sticky formula
- Safe for kids
- Works on all hair colors
- Great for parties and cosplay
Cons
- Lower review count indicates newer product
- Color payoff may vary by hair type
I picked up the Waybesty temporary color wax in blue for a cosplay event, and I was honestly not expecting much given the lower price point. But the color showed up on my medium brown hair in a way that genuinely impressed me. The wax goes on with your hands or a brush, and you can build the intensity layer by layer until you get the exact shade you want.
What sets this apart from aerosol sprays is the control. I could target specific sections of hair without worrying about overspray getting on my face or clothes. The blue was vivid and opaque, and it held up through an entire afternoon at a convention without flaking or fading. The formula is non-sticky, which surprised me because most waxes I have tried leave a tacky residue.
The wash-out process took one thorough shampoo with warm water. I did notice a very faint blue tint on my ends after the first wash, but a second quick lather cleared it completely. The formula includes nourishing ingredients, and I did not notice any dryness or damage after using it. At 4.06 ounces, you get a decent amount of product for the price.
The main limitation is that this is a wax, not an aerosol, so the texture is different. You are physically working the product into your hair with your hands, which means you will need to wash your hands afterward. Some users on Amazon mentioned the color can transfer onto clothing if you apply it thickly, so I recommend letting it set for a few minutes before getting dressed.
Who Should Buy This
This is my top recommendation for families and group events. It is safe for kids, works on all hair colors, and the hands-on application makes it easy to control the look. If you are doing a group costume or want something for a kids crazy hair day at school, the Waybesty wax is practical, affordable, and effective.
How It Compares to Aerosol Sprays
Unlike aerosol sprays that dispense fine pigment particles, this wax gives you concentrated color where you place it. That means fuller coverage per application but a heavier feel on the hair. It works better for sectioned coloring like streaks, tips, or full-panel color rather than an all-over mist. For events where you need precise color placement, the wax format wins.
3. Azonbey Orange Hair Spray – Budget-Friendly Bold Color
Orange Hair Spray,Temporary Hair Color Spray for Women Kids Men,Washable Hairspray,Colored Hair Spray,Color Hairspray for Halloween,Party,Cosplay,Christmas Day (03#Orange)
Orange color
Washable
No sticky residue
Safe for all ages
Pros
- Vibrant colors
- Easy spray-on application
- Washes out easily with water or shampoo
- No sticky residue
- Safe for all ages
- Good for events and parties
Cons
- Small bottle size
- Can get messy during application
- May rub off on clothes
- Color may differ on dark hair
The Azonbey orange spray is the most affordable option on this list, and I tested it for a Halloween pumpkin costume. For the price, the color payoff is genuinely impressive. The orange came through bright and saturated on my lighter sections, and even on my darker roots, it created a visible warm tone that photographed well.
The application is straightforward. Shake the can, hold it about eight inches from your hair, and spray in short bursts. I found that building thin layers gave a more even result than going heavy in one pass. The spray dries quickly and does not leave a sticky feeling, which is rare at this price point. With over 17 color variants available, you can find a shade for almost any event theme.
On the downside, the 4.16-ounce bottle runs out faster than you might expect. I used about half the can for a single full-head application. The color also transferred onto my shirt collar by the end of the night, so I would recommend wearing dark clothing or something you do not mind getting tinted. A hairspray top coat helps lock it in place.
Wash-out was surprisingly easy. Warm water and regular shampoo removed most of the color in one wash, though I did see a faint orange tint in my towel afterward. A second wash cleared everything. The formula is safe for kids, which makes it a go-to for school spirit days and birthday parties where you need something budget-friendly for multiple kids.
Who Should Buy This
If you need temporary color for a one-off event and do not want to spend much, this is your best bet. It is ideal for Halloween, school events, and themed parties where the color only needs to last a few hours. I would recommend buying two cans if you are covering a full head of hair, since the small size runs out quickly.
Managing Transfer and Mess
To minimize transfer, apply the spray in a well-ventilated area and let it dry completely before putting on your costume. Cover your shoulders with a towel during application, and use a light coat of clear hairspray as a sealant once you are happy with the color. Avoid touching your hair throughout the event, since friction is the main cause of transfer onto skin and clothing.
4. L’Oreal Paris Magic Root Cover Up – Natural Gray Coverage
L’Oreal Paris Magic Root Cover Up Gray Hair Spray, 100% Gray Hair Coverage with Buildable, Lightweight, Transfer-Resistant, and Temporary Formula, Ammonia-Free, Dark Brown, 2 oz (1 Count)
100% gray coverage
Buildable formula
Ammonia-free
Dark Brown
2 oz
Pros
- Covers gray roots quickly and blends naturally
- Lightweight formula leaves no residue
- Ammonia and peroxide free
- Gives illusion of fuller hair
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Can be messy to use
- May transfer onto clothing
- May come off on hands
- Small quantity
I tested the L’Oreal Paris Magic Root Cover Up in dark brown for an event where I needed to look polished but did not have time for a salon visit. This spray is designed for gray root coverage, but I found it works beautifully for any situation where you need natural-looking color for a few hours. The pigment matched my hair tone perfectly and blended seamlessly into my roots.
With over 87,000 reviews, this is one of the most popular temporary color products on Amazon. The buildable formula means you can start light and add more until you get the coverage you want. I found that two light passes over my part line completely concealed my grays. The spray dries to a powder-like finish that does not feel sticky or stiff.
The formula is ammonia-free and peroxide-free, which means it coats the hair without chemically processing it. It lasts until your next shampoo, so you can apply it in the morning for an all-day event. I wore it through a full wedding day, including photos and dancing, and it held up without needing touch-ups.
The main downside is the transfer risk. I noticed some color on my fingers when I ran my hand through my hair, and it left a mark on my pillowcase that night. For events, I recommend setting it with a light hairspray and avoiding light-colored clothing around the collar. The 2-ounce can is small, and I got about four targeted root applications from it.
Who Should Buy This
This is the best choice for adults who need natural-looking root coverage for professional events, weddings, or any occasion where you want a polished appearance. It is not designed for bold fashion colors, but for covering grays or extending the life of a color job between salon visits, it is remarkably effective.
Shade Matching Tips
Choose the shade that matches your natural or dyed hair color as closely as possible. If you are between shades, go slightly darker for better blending. The spray works best on dry, styled hair applied directly to the root area. Hold the can four inches away and spray in short, targeted bursts for the most natural result.
5. TRESemme Temporary Root Touch-Up – Professional Quality
Tresemme Styling Aid Root Touch Up Spray Dark Brown 2.5 Oz.
Dark Brown
Ammonia-free
Peroxide-free
Cruelty-free
2.5 oz
Pros
- Professional quality results
- No visible residue
- Ammonia and peroxide free
- Cruelty-free
- Easy to blend
Cons
- May need multiple applications for full coverage
- Results vary by hair type
The TRESemme root touch-up spray caught my attention because it is cruelty-free certified by PETA, which is important to me when choosing beauty products. I tested the dark brown shade for a professional conference where I wanted my roots to look fresh between salon appointments. The coverage was even and natural, with no visible residue or telltale spray line.
What impressed me most is how well the color blended into my existing shade. Some root sprays create an obvious line where the spray ends and your real hair begins, but the TRESemme formula feathered naturally. I applied it along my part and around my hairline, and the grays disappeared within seconds.
The formula is ammonia-free and peroxide-free, and it held up through an entire day of meetings without fading. It lasted until my next shampoo, which is exactly what you want for a multi-day event or conference. The 2.5-ounce can is slightly larger than some competitors, giving you a few more applications per can.
For full coverage areas, I did need to apply a second layer. The first pass covered most grays, but a few stubborn spots needed a targeted second spray. This is a minor inconvenience, but worth knowing if you have significant gray coverage needs. The finish is matte and natural, with no stiffness or stickiness.
Who Should Buy This
If you want a cruelty-free option that delivers professional-quality results, this is your pick. It is ideal for work events, weddings, and any situation where you need natural-looking coverage that lasts all day. The PETA certification makes it stand out for ethically conscious shoppers.
Cruelty-Free and Formula Safety
The TRESemme root touch-up is one of the few temporary color sprays that is both cruelty-free certified and free of harsh chemicals. The ammonia-free and peroxide-free formula means it will not damage your hair, even with regular use between salon visits. This makes it a safe option for long-term use, not just one-off events.
6. Punky Temporary Hair Color Spray – Siberian White for Bold Looks
Punky Temporary Hair Color Spray – Siberian White, Instant Vivid Temporary Hair Dye for Women, Wash Out, Hair-Color Spray, 3.5 oz
Siberian White
Instant vivid color
Wash out in one shampoo
3.5 oz
Pros
- Vivid color payoff
- Washes out easily
- Non-damaging to hair
- Travel-friendly size
- Trusted brand with 30+ years experience
Cons
- Some users report patchy coverage
- Color may not last as long on darker hair
I have used the Punky Siberian White spray for two different cosplay events, and it delivers a striking white overlay that is hard to find from other brands. The Punky brand has been around for over 30 years, and their experience shows in the pigment quality. On my lightened sections, the white was opaque and dramatic, exactly what I needed for a costume.
The spray mechanism dispenses an even fine mist that coats each strand without clumping. I found that holding the can about eight inches away and moving continuously gave the most even coverage. On unbleached dark hair, the white shows up as more of a dusty frost, which can still look great for certain costume effects like a Jack Frost or ghost character.
Wash-out is where the Punky spray truly shines. The brand claims one shampoo removes the color completely, and in my experience, that held true. The white pigment lifted out with warm water and regular shampoo without leaving any chalky residue behind. This is especially impressive for a white shade, since white pigments tend to be stubborn on hair.
The 3.5-ounce size is travel-friendly, which I appreciated when I needed to do touch-ups at a convention. My one complaint is that on thicker hair, achieving full coverage requires quite a bit of product and can result in patchy spots if you do not apply carefully. Take your time and work in sections for the best result.
Who Should Buy This
Cosplayers, this one is for you. The Siberian White shade is ideal for anime characters, winter-themed costumes, and any look that requires a stark white hair color. The Punky brand also offers a wide range of other vivid shades, so if you need pink, purple, or green for a convention, their line is worth exploring.
Achieving White on Dark Hair
Getting a true white on dark hair is one of the hardest things to do with temporary color. The Punky spray creates a visible white coating on dark hair, but it reads more as a frost or dusting than an opaque white. For the most dramatic white effect, apply it to pre-lightened sections of hair. If you cannot bleach, try spraying heavily and then setting with white face powder for extra opacity.
7. CMWGKBC 4-Color Hair Wax Set – Ultimate Party Pack
4 Colors Temporary Hair Color for Kids,Gifts for Teens,Girls,Boys,Gifts for Kids,Temporary Hair Dye,Hair Color Spray Green Red Blue Purple Hair Dye Hair Wax Color,Instant Color Wax Halloween Party
Green Purple Blue Red
Plant extracts
Works on dark hair
Party pack
Pros
- Vibrant colors that show up well on dark hair
- Easy to apply and wash out
- No damage to hair
- Good for kids and adults
- Lasts all day without melting
- Mild fragrance
Cons
- Can be messy to apply
- May rub off on clothes
- Gets tacky quickly
- Heavy on hair due to thickness
The CMWGKBC 4-color set is the only multi-color kit on this list, and it is a fantastic value if you need variety. I tested all four shades (green, purple, blue, and red) across different weekend events, and each color showed up vividly even on my darker hair sections. The plant-extract formula includes beeswax, licorice extract, and castor oil, which gives it a smoother texture than typical color waxes.
For a Halloween group costume, having four colors in one package was incredibly convenient. My friends and I each picked a different shade, and the application process was the same for all of them. You scoop a small amount of wax, work it between your palms, and smooth it through the sections you want to color. The pigment goes on opaque and stays put through several hours of wear.
The colors are genuinely vibrant on dark hair, which is rare for temporary products. The blue and purple were the most striking, while the green had a slightly more muted tone. The red leaned toward a true crimson rather than a bright fire-engine red. All four washed out with two shampoos, though the blue left a faint ghost of color on my lightest ends.
The trade-off with this set is the texture. The wax is thick, and it does feel heavy on your hair, especially if you apply it liberally. It can get tacky within an hour of application, which means strands may stick together. For events where you are moving around a lot, this is manageable, but it is not something I would want to wear for more than one day.
Who Should Buy This
This set is perfect for group costumes, festival crews, or anyone who wants multiple color options without buying separate products. It is also the strongest contender for dark-haired users who need colors that actually show up. If you are doing Halloween, Carnival, or a themed party with friends, the four-color variety gives everyone a shade to work with.
Application Technique for Best Results
Apply this wax to dry, detangled hair for the most even coverage. Use a comb to section off the areas you want to color, and work the wax in small amounts using your fingers or a styling brush. Start with less product than you think you need and build up gradually. Avoid applying it near your roots if you have an oily scalp, since the wax can look greasy in those areas.
8. Red by Kiss Tintation – Precision Gray Coverage
Red by Kiss Tintation Temporary Hair Color Spray, Instant Gray Root Touch Up Coverage, Water-Resistant & Smudge-Proof, Easy Wash Out, Barber & Hairline Touch-Up, Quick-Dry (Black, 2.82 oz)
Black
Instant gray coverage
Water-resistant
Quick-dry
2.82 oz
Pros
- Instant gray coverage
- Water-resistant and smudge-proof
- Quick-dry formula
- No harsh chemicals
- Enriched with Olive Oil
- Precise nozzle for targeted application
Cons
- Small can size may require multiple cans
- Limited to 2.82 oz package size
The Red by Kiss Tintation spray is designed with a precision nozzle that sets it apart from every other product on this list. I tested the black shade for a barber-style hairline touch-up before a formal event, and the targeted application was spot-on. The narrow nozzle lets you fill in specific areas along the hairline and edges with accuracy that broader spray patterns cannot match.
This spray dries in under a minute, which is faster than any other product I tested. That quick-dry formula is a real advantage when you are getting ready for an event and do not have time to wait for color to set. Once dry, it is water-resistant and smudge-proof, meaning it will not run if you sweat or get caught in light rain during an outdoor event.
The formula is enriched with olive oil, which adds a conditioning element that most temporary sprays lack. I noticed my hairline area did not feel dry or stiff after application, even though the color held firm all day. With over 3,200 reviews and a 4.4-star average, users consistently praise the instant coverage and the natural-looking finish.
The main limitation is the can size. At 2.82 ounces, you may need multiple cans if you are covering a large area or doing a full-head application. For targeted touch-ups like hairlines, edges, and specific gray patches, the size is perfectly adequate. For broader coverage, consider pairing this with a larger spray for the main areas and using the Tintation for precision work.
Who Should Buy This
This is the go-to for anyone who needs precision coverage along the hairline, edges, or fade areas. It is especially popular in the barber community for refreshing fades between appointments. For events, it is ideal for formal occasions where you need clean, sharp lines around your hairline and a polished finish.
Water-Resistant Performance
The water-resistant formula means this spray will not run or smudge during light rain, sweating, or humid conditions. I wore it to an outdoor summer wedding, and it held up through heat and humidity without fading or transferring. Removal requires shampoo, not just water, which means you control when the color comes off rather than having it wash away unexpectedly.
How to Choose the Best Temporary Hair Color Spray for Events
Choosing the right temporary hair color spray comes down to three main factors: your hair color, your event type, and how quickly you need the color gone. I have broken down each of these based on my testing experience and the common questions I see in forums.
Color Payoff on Dark vs Light Hair. This is the single biggest factor. On light blonde or highlighted hair, almost any temporary spray will show up vividly. On dark brown or black hair, lighter shades like white, silver, and pastel colors will only create a subtle overlay rather than a full transformation. For dark hair, choose saturated colors like blue, red, green, or purple. The CMWGKBC wax set and Waybesty wax both performed well on dark hair in my tests. Avoid light pastel shades unless you are willing to pre-lighten your hair first.
Event-Specific Recommendations. Different events call for different products. For Halloween and cosplay, the Punky Siberian White and the CMWGKBC 4-color set give you the bold, dramatic looks that costumes demand. For music festivals, the L’Oreal Colorista and Azonbey sprays offer fun color pops that wash out before Monday. For professional events and weddings, the L’Oreal Magic Root Cover Up, TRESemme, and Red by Kiss Tintation provide natural gray coverage that looks polished.
Wash-Out Speed. If you need the color gone in one wash, the L’Oreal Colorista is the most reliable option I tested. The Punky spray also washed out cleanly in one shampoo. Waxes like the Waybesty and CMWGKBC set may require two washes, especially on lighter hair sections. If you have an important meeting the next day, stick with sprays rather than waxes.
Application Timing. A common question I see on Reddit is whether to apply temporary color before or after styling. Based on my testing, apply spray colors after styling for the most even coverage. Style your hair first, then spray the color onto the finished look. For waxes, work the product into damp hair before styling, since the wax itself becomes part of the styling process.
Safety and Damage Concerns. All eight products on this list are free of bleach and do not chemically alter your hair. They coat the hair shaft with pigment that sits on the surface. The TRESemme spray is cruelty-free certified, and the Red by Kiss formula includes olive oil for conditioning. If you have sensitive skin or scalp issues, test any new product on a small section first.
Frequently Asked Questions About Temporary Hair Color Sprays
What is the best temporary hair color spray?
The L’Oreal Paris Colorista 1-Day Spray is the best overall temporary hair color spray. It washes out in one shampoo, requires no bleach, and delivers vivid color that works for costumes, parties, and events. For natural gray coverage, the L’Oreal Magic Root Cover Up is the top choice.
How long does temporary hair color spray last?
Temporary hair color spray lasts until your next shampoo, which typically means one day of wear. Most spray formulas wash out completely with one or two washes. The Red by Kiss Tintation is water-resistant and will not run if you sweat, but it still removes with shampoo.
Does temporary hair color spray work on dark hair?
Yes, but results vary by shade. Saturated colors like blue, red, green, and purple show up well on dark hair. Lighter shades like white, silver, and pastels create a subtle overlay rather than full coverage. For best results on dark hair, choose wax-based products like the CMWGKBC set or use multiple layers of aerosol spray.
Is temporary hair color spray bad for your hair?
No, temporary hair color spray is not damaging to hair. These products coat the hair shaft with surface pigment without using ammonia, bleach, or peroxide. They do not penetrate the cuticle or chemically alter the hair. Some formulas, like the Red by Kiss Tintation, even include conditioning ingredients like olive oil.
How do you remove temporary hair color spray?
Wash your hair with warm water and regular shampoo. Most aerosol sprays like L’Oreal Colorista and Punky wash out in one shampoo. Wax-based products may require two washes. For stubborn residue, use a clarifying shampoo and warm water. Avoid hot water, which can make some pigments harder to remove.
Final Thoughts on Temporary Hair Color Sprays for Events
Finding the best temporary hair color sprays for events does not have to be complicated. For bold one-day color that washes out cleanly, the L’Oreal Colorista is my top pick. For families and groups, the Waybesty wax and CMWGKBC set deliver vibrant color on any hair type. And for natural-looking root coverage at professional events, the L’Oreal Magic Root Cover Up and TRESemme spray have you covered.
Whatever your event in 2026, these sprays let you transform your look without commitment or damage. Pick the product that matches your hair type and event scenario, apply it on dry styled hair, and enjoy the color for as long as you need it. One shampoo later, it is gone.