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Hair Coloring for Grey Coverage: 10 Best Colors 2025 – Tested

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hair coloring for grey coverageWhen you’re battling stubborn grays, hair coloring for grey coverage becomes your secret weapon. Choose ammonia-free formulas with nourishing ingredients like keratin or natural oils to protect your hair while you color.

For seamless results, consider blending techniques like babylights or lowlights that work with your natural gray pattern instead of fighting it. Medium browns and golden blondes tend to be most forgiving, creating a youthful look that grows out gracefully.

Semi-permanent options offer gentler coverage, while permanent colors provide lasting results. The key is matching your skin tone and lifestyle – because the right shade transforms more than just your hair.

Table Of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Choose ammonia-free formulas with nourishing ingredients – You’ll protect your hair while achieving full gray coverage by selecting gentle formulas containing keratin, argan oil, or aloe vera that strengthen and moisturize during the coloring process.
  • Match your skin tone and go one shade darker than natural – You’ll get the most natural-looking results by selecting neutral or ash tones that complement your complexion and choosing colors slightly darker than your original shade for seamless blending.
  • Use blending techniques like babylights or lowlights – You’ll create more natural coverage by working with your gray pattern instead of fighting it, using highlighting techniques that add dimension and extend the time between touch-ups.
  • Maintain results with color-safe products and regular touch-ups – You’ll keep your coverage looking fresh by using sulfate-free shampoos, applying deep conditioning treatments weekly, and scheduling root touch-ups every 4-6 weeks.

Choosing Gray Hair Color

Choosing the right hair color for gray coverage depends on understanding your hair’s unique needs and your lifestyle preferences.

You’ll want to take into account gentle ingredients, maintenance requirements, and shade selection to achieve natural-looking results that work with your daily routine, considering complete concepts for the best outcome.

Ingredients for Gentle Hair Color

Gentle formulas prioritize your scalp’s wellbeing without sacrificing gray coverage effectiveness. Ammoniafree alternatives like ethanolamine open hair cuticles more gently, while plantbased ingredients nourish during coloring.

These natural ingredients protect sensitive skin from harsh chemical reactions. As safer alternatives gain traction, many are turning to natural hair dyes to avoid harsh chemicals.

  • Keratin benefits: Strengthens hair structure while delivering color
  • Argan oil: Moisturizes and prevents dryness during processing
  • Aloe vera: Soothes scalp irritation and reduces inflammation
  • PPD concerns: Choose formulas with minimal or no para-phenylenediamine
  • Nourishing ingredients: Look for botanical extracts that condition simultaneously

Maintenance and Longevity

Color longevity depends on your hair’s porosity and maintenance routine.

Root touch-ups appear every 3-6 weeks, while permanent dyes last 4-8 weeks before noticeable fading factors kick in. Color-safe products and deep conditioning treatments protect your investment, while sun protection prevents premature fade.

Selecting the right shade involves understanding skin undertones to complement your complexion.

Maintenance Factor Impact on Longevity
Root touch-ups frequency Every 4-6 weeks for seamless coverage
Color-safe shampoo use Extends vibrancy by 40%
Deep conditioning treatments Locks pigments, prevents fading
Sun protection application Prevents UV damage and color loss
Water temperature control Cool water preserves color molecules

Your grey hair coverage success hinges on consistent aftercare for long-lasting results.

Shade Selection for Natural Look

Selecting the right shade means finding your perfect match without overwhelming your natural beauty.

Consider these key factors for natural-looking coverage:

  • Neutral tones work universally across different skin tones and hair textures
  • Ash shades counteract brassiness while complementing cool undertones naturally
  • Gray percentage determines whether you need semi-permanent or permanent formulas
  • Hair texture affects color absorption – coarse grays need stronger formulas
  • Skin tone matching prevents harsh contrasts that scream "dyed hair"

Choose shades one level darker than your natural color for seamless grey blending hair color that grows out gracefully.

Gray Coverage Techniques

You’ll discover several techniques to seamlessly blend gray hair with your natural color, from babylights that mimic natural sun-kissed highlights to strategic lowlights that create depth.

These methods allow you to customize coverage based on your specific gray growth pattern while achieving the exact tones you want.

Babylights and Lowlights for Salt-and-Pepper Appearance

babylights and lowlights for salt-and-pepper appearance
Two powerhouse techniques transform stubborn gray hair into coveted salt-and-pepper perfection.

Babylights create subtle dimension through ultra-fine highlights, while lowlights add rich depth for seamless gray blending.

These low maintenance approaches offer superior grey hair camouflage compared to harsh all-over color.

For a natural, sophisticated look, consider exploring different highlighting techniques to enhance your hair.

Technique Benefits Best For
Babylights Creates natural highlight gray hair effect, mimics sun-kissed strands Fine hair needing volume illusion
Lowlights Adds depth, prevents flat appearance, extends grow-out time Thick hair with scattered grays

Strategic color placement and proper toning techniques guarantee your grey blending hair color looks intentional, not accidental.

This customizable approach works with your natural pattern rather than fighting it.

Blending Gray Roots Seamlessly

blending gray roots seamlessly
Beyond traditional single-process coloring, strategic gray blending transforms stubborn roots into natural-looking coverage that grows out gracefully.

Professional-grade root concealers and highlight techniques create seamless shifts between your natural color and emerging grays.

Strategic blending approaches include:

  • Root touch up formulas that match your base color perfectly
  • Balayage options for hand-painted, lived-in dimension
  • Brunette shades with subtle lowlights for depth
  • Naturallooking coverage through strategic placement techniques

Hair color grey blending requires precision timing – apply color to roots first, allowing extra processing time for resistant grays while protecting previously colored lengths.

Customizable Gray Growth Pattern and Desired Tones

customizable gray growth pattern and desired tones
Your gray growth pattern tells its own story, and you can work with it instead of against it.

Custom formulas let you match your natural ash tones while addressing specific areas where gray hair growth appears first.

Work with your hair’s natural silver story instead of hiding from it.

Root smudging techniques blur harsh lines, creating seamless gray blending that mimics your original shade selection for the most natural look possible.

Top 10 Hair Colors

Finding the right color to cover gray hair completely can feel overwhelming with so many options available.

After testing dozens of products, we’ve narrowed down the top 10 hair colors that deliver exceptional gray coverage while keeping your hair healthy and vibrant.

1. PHYTO Golden Blonde Ammonia Free Hair Color

PHYTO Phytocolor Permanent Hair Color B07LFNVPT1View On Amazon
Botanical brilliance meets practical gray coverage in this ammonia-free formula packed with 81% natural ingredients.

Nature’s gentle touch delivers professional gray coverage without compromise.

You’ll appreciate the gentle jojoba and monoï oils that nourish while five plant pigments deliver multi-tonal golden highlights.

The cream applies smoothly with minimal chemical odor, covering 100% of grays effectively.

Though pricier than drugstore brands, users report silky results lasting 4-6 weeks.

Pro tip: work quickly since the mixture solidifies fast during application, ensuring you achieve the desired golden highlights.

Best For: Anyone with gray hair who wants gentle, natural-looking golden blonde results without the harsh smell or scalp sting of traditional dyes.

Pros
  • Covers grays completely and leaves hair shiny, soft, and vibrant, even on sensitive scalps.
  • Ammonia-free with up to 81% botanicals, plus nourishing oils for a comfortable, pleasant smell and feel.
  • Long-lasting color with multi-tonal, natural highlights, plus a protective mask included.
Cons
  • Pricier than most drugstore box dyes, so it’s an investment.
  • The mixture sets quickly, so you need to work fast for best results.
  • Gloves may be too large for smaller hands and application can be tricky for first-timers.

2. AGE beautiful Hair Color Starter Kit

AGE beautiful Permanent Hair Color B09BD96GDRView On Amazon
Standing out from crowded drugstore shelves, AGE beautiful tackles five aging hair concerns in one go.

You’ll get biotin-infused fullness, keratin-strengthened strands, and 100% gray coverage that lasts eight weeks.

The melanin and silk proteins work overtime to restore what time takes away.

Sure, it smells strong and might darken more than expected, but your hair emerges visibly thicker and shinier.

This salon-evaluated formula delivers professional results without the professional price tag.

Best For: Those with gray, thinning, or dull hair who want salon-quality color and fullness at home.

Pros
  • Powerful gray coverage and fuller-looking hair that lasts up to 8 weeks.
  • Infused with biotin, keratin, melanin, and silk protein for stronger, softer, shinier hair.
  • Simple at-home application and wide shade selection tailored to aging hair.
Cons
  • Strong chemical odor and potential for skin staining.
  • Some shades, like darkest brown, can appear too dark or nearly black.
  • Occasional packaging issues and kit may be less cost-effective than buying dye and developer separately.

3. Christophe Robin Dark Blonde Color Gel

Christophe Robin Temporary Color Gel B07G5N66GSView On Amazon
Designed specifically for stubborn grays, this ammonia-free gel delivers 70-80% coverage that blends seamlessly with your natural color.

You’ll appreciate its plant-based formula containing 92% natural ingredients, including oat flakes and inula flower extract for scalp comfort.

The mess-free gel texture applies easily at home, lasting 5-7 washes without harsh demarcation lines.

Processing takes just 40 minutes, and the gradual fade prevents that obvious grow-out look.

It’s particularly effective for those seeking temporary solutions between salon visits.

Best For: Those looking for a low-commitment, at-home solution to blend stubborn grays and regrowth between salon visits.

Pros
  • 70–80% gray coverage with natural-looking results that fade gradually over 5–7 washes.
  • 92% plant-based, ammonia-free formula is gentle on the scalp and hair, suitable for sensitive or fragile hair.
  • Easy, mess-free gel application with no strong artificial scent and no staining on skin or pillows.
Cons
  • Does not provide full gray coverage, especially for highly resistant grays.
  • Temporary results require frequent reapplication every 1–2 weeks.
  • Price may be considered high given the short-lasting effect and coverage level.

4. Clairol Root Touch Up Medium Brown

Clairol Root Touch-Up by Nice'n B07FL94PMMView On Amazon
Clairol Root Touch Up Medium Brown consistently delivers 100% gray coverage in just 10 minutes, making it your go-to solution between salon visits.

You’ll appreciate the salon-inspired brush and mixing bowl that guarantee precise application without the mess.

The ColorBlend Technology seamlessly matches existing color, while the permanent formula lasts up to three weeks.

Though you might need extra product for full root coverage, most users praise its natural-looking results and convenience.

Best For: Those wanting a quick, easy root touch-up that blends naturally with medium brown hair between salon appointments.

Pros
  • May not provide enough product for those with thicker or larger root areas.
  • Scent can be noticeable during application.
  • Cost per use is high compared to full-size hair color kits.
Cons
  • Delivers 100% gray coverage in just 10 minutes.
  • Precise salon-inspired brush ensures less mess and easy application.
  • Color lasts up to three weeks and resists brassiness.

5. Schwarzkopf Keratin Cappuccino Brown Hair Color

Schwarzkopf Keratin Color Permanent Hair B00TUL0GSQView On Amazon
Schwarzkopf consistently delivers salon-quality results at home with their Keratin Cappuccino Brown Hair Color.

You’ll achieve 100% gray coverage that lasts up to 10 weeks, thanks to the anti-fade formula.

The 3-step Bond Enforcing System strengthens hair by 5X against breakage while the pre-color serum guarantees even application.

Users love the rich medium-brown shade with subtle auburn highlights that creates natural dimension, and the conditioning formula leaves hair softer and shinier than most box dyes, providing a salon-quality finish.

Best For: Those seeking long-lasting gray coverage and salon-quality results at home, especially on textured or resistant hair.

Pros
  • Higher price point compared to other box dyes.
  • Does not include a mixing bowl or brush in the kit.
  • Some users report color bleeding and slightly uneven coverage on stubborn grays.
Cons
  • Delivers up to 100% gray coverage with natural, multi-dimensional brown color.
  • Strengthens hair and reduces breakage with keratin and bond-enforcing technology.
  • Leaves hair soft, smooth, and shiny with a conditioning formula.

6. Clairol Dark Neutral Brown Hair Color

Clairol Professional Permanent Crème Hair B07SCYM1ZFView On Amazon
Professional-grade coverage becomes your reality with this salon-quality formula that delivers 100% gray elimination.

You’ll appreciate the Soy4Plex complex that nourishes while coloring, preventing the damage typical dyes cause.

The neutral brown shade won’t pull red or brassy, giving you natural-looking results that last up to eight weeks.

Processing takes 45 minutes, but you’ll get multiple root touch-ups from one tube, making this an economical choice for consistent coverage.

Best For: Anyone who wants true-to-tone, dark neutral brown hair with full gray coverage in a salon-quality formula you can use at home.

Pros
  • Color can turn out darker than expected for some people.
  • May fade faster on certain hair types or with frequent washing.
  • Some users notice hair feels oily or needs extra rinsing after coloring.
Cons
  • Easy to apply, creamy formula with low mess and light scent.
  • 100% gray coverage that’s long-lasting and looks natural.
  • One tube gives multiple root touch-ups, saving money and hassle.

7. Better Natured Dark Plum Hair Dye

3V Dark Plum Permanent Hair B095TPRM9QView On Amazon
With gentle formulation and 87-92% natural ingredients, Better Natured Dark Plum delivers salon-quality results without harsh chemicals.

You’ll get impeccable gray coverage lasting up to 8 weeks, thanks to coconut, palm, and orchid extracts that condition while coloring.

The deep violet tone suits various complexions, though some users report fading after multiple washes.

Processing takes 35-45 minutes for stubborn grays, and the kit includes everything needed for easy at-home application, providing impeccable gray coverage and using natural ingredients.

Best For: Anyone with stubborn grays or lighter hair looking for rich, plum salon color at home with mostly natural ingredients.

Pros
  • Gives strong, long-lasting gray coverage (up to 8 weeks).
  • Formula is gentle on scalp and hair, leaving it soft and shiny.
  • Comes with everything needed and is easy for beginners.
Cons
  • Color may fade noticeably after a few washes, especially on light or porous hair.
  • Some users find the price high for a single application.
  • Packaging problems and unpredictable shade results reported by a few customers.

8. Clairol Red Clay Hair Color

Clairol Professional TRUE COLOR Permanent B07Q6YXD8LView On Amazon
Transform stubborn grays with this rich, copper-red formula that delivers up to 100% coverage in 30-45 minutes.

You’ll love how the clay-inspired undertones create multidimensional color while conditioning agents like aloe vera and vitamin E keep your hair soft.

The permanent formula lasts 4-6 weeks, though red shades fade faster than darker tones.

Apply to roots first, then pull through ends after 20 minutes for even results.

Best For: People who want to cover stubborn grays and get a natural-looking, vibrant red tone that lasts several weeks.

Pros
  • Up to 100% gray coverage with rich copper-red color and multidimensional shine.
  • Conditioning formula with aloe vera and vitamin E for soft, healthy hair.
  • Works on various hair types and blends well with brunette and auburn bases.
Cons
  • Red shades tend to fade faster than darker colors and need more frequent touch-ups.
  • Strong scent may be overwhelming to some users.
  • Requires a separate developer, which isn’t included in the box.

9. ColorCharm Medium Brown Intense Neutral

Wella Color Tango Permanent Masque B07GXVB46PView On Amazon
Wella’s powerhouse formula delivers salon-quality results that won’t break the bank.

You’ll get exceptional gray coverage with their "NN" intense neutral technology, specifically designed for stubborn grays.

The cream formula includes BondGuard technology and nourishing oils that leave hair 60% more conditioned than untreated hair.

Mix with 20-volume developer for best results.

This fade-resistant color lasts up to five weeks, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious gray coverage.

Best For: Anyone seeking salon-level gray coverage, natural results, and extra conditioning at home on a budget.

Pros
  • Runs darker than expected; color may look deeper than the shade name suggests.
  • Requires separate purchase and careful mixing of developer.
  • May need post-dye deep conditioning, especially for porous or previously colored hair.
Cons
  • Offers 100% gray coverage, including stubborn resistant grays.
  • Leaves hair noticeably softer, shinier, and more conditioned than most boxed dyes.
  • Fade-resistant results last up to five weeks with predictable, even color.

10. Clairol Rich Dark Brown Haircolor

Clairol Professional Beautiful Collection Advanced B07SCYKJY1View On Amazon
With zero-damage technology, this semi-permanent formula delivers up to 50% gray coverage without ammonia or peroxide.

You’ll get 2X longer-lasting results compared to previous formulas, lasting up to 12 shampoos.

The Rich Dark Brown shade creates multidimensional color that blends seamlessly with natural hair.

It’s gentle enough for immediate use after chemical treatments and moisturizes while coloring.

Perfect for regular touch-ups every 2-3 weeks.

Best For: Those looking for gentle, semi-permanent gray coverage with a moisturizing formula safe for chemically treated or sensitive hair.

Pros
  • No ammonia or peroxide, causing zero damage and minimizing scalp irritation.
  • Multidimensional color blends grays and enhances shine for a natural look.
  • Easy, mess-free application and safe for use after relaxing or chemical treatments.
Cons
  • Covers only up to 50% grays, so not ideal for those with high gray percentages.
  • Color fades after 10-12 shampoos, requiring frequent reapplication.
  • Gloves not included and instructions can be hard to read.

Hair Color Application

You’ll find that applying gray hair color correctly makes the difference between amateur-looking results and salon-quality coverage.

Whether you choose permanent formulas for stubborn grays or gentler semi-permanent options, the right technique guarantees even application and lasting results.

Permanent Hair Color for Comprehensive Gray Coverage

permanent hair color for comprehensive gray coverage
Permanent grey coverage delivers the strongest chemical composition for resistant grays, using ammonia-based formulas that penetrate hair shafts completely.

You’ll achieve long lasting grey coverage through double-process application techniques that guarantee color molecules bond permanently.

Root touch-ups become necessary every 4-6 weeks as new growth appears, which is a result of the maximum color longevity provided by this method compared to temporary options.

Many consumers purchase products for achieving superior results to ensure they get the best possible outcome from their grey coverage treatments.

Semi-Permanent Dyes for Less Damaging Option

semi-permanent dyes for less damaging option
If you’re worried about hair damage from permanent dyes, semipermanent hair dyes offer gentler ingredients like conditioning agents instead of harsh ammonia.

These formulas provide gradual fading over 4-8 weeks, making them perfect for tone enhancement on grey hair.

While they offer limited coverage compared to permanent options, the cost comparison favors semipermanent for frequent touch-ups without compromising hair health.

Salon Treatments for Customized Color Formulas

salon treatments for customized color formulas
Professional salon treatments reveal your hair’s transformation potential through custom color blending and advanced highlighting techniques.

Colorists perform scalp sensitivity testing before creating personalized grey coverage formulas with professional color correction. These salon grey coverage solutions include personalized gloss treatments that deliver superior results.

Expert stylists blend multiple tones for natural-looking grey hair solutions that last longer than store-bought options, using techniques such as custom color blending and advanced highlighting techniques to achieve personalized grey coverage.

At-Home Coloring for Cost-Effective Option

at-home coloring for cost-effective option
At-home DIY color kits slash salon costs by 70-85%, making effective grey coverage accessible to everyone.

Budget dyes from drugstores offer professional-quality results when you master application tips. Root touch-ups between full treatments stretch your dollar further while maintaining seamless coverage.

Remember to perform a patch test beforehand to avoid allergic reactions.

  • Kit selection: Choose ammonia-free formulas with conditioning ingredients for gentler processing
  • Application tips: Apply to hairline first, use barrier cream, wear gloves for mess-free results
  • Root touch-ups: Extend full color treatments with targeted coverage every 2-4 weeks
  • Budget dyes: Drugstore box dyes provide 100% grey coverage at under $15 per application
  • At-home grey coverage: Follow timing instructions precisely for consistent, salon-quality results

Maintaining Gray Hair

maintaining gray hair
Once you’ve achieved your perfect gray coverage, maintaining that fresh color becomes your new priority.

You’ll need a consistent routine of regular touch-ups, protective products, and gentle care to keep your color looking salon-fresh between applications.

Regular Touch-Ups for Root Coverage

Every four to six weeks becomes your new rhythm when covering grey hair at home.

Root Concealers bridge the gap between full coloring sessions, offering instant DIY Methods for stubborn regrowth.

Professional Options provide custom Matching Color formulas, but most people master root touch up techniques with quality grey hair dye for consistent covering grey hair results, using grey hair dye.

Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner for Long-Lasting Color

Using color-safe shampoo and conditioner after hair coloring protects your investment.

Sulfate-free formulas prevent color from washing down the drain, while pH-balanced products seal hair cuticles for longer-lasting grey coverage.

Choosing the right products can be overwhelming, but you can easily find quality options to maintain moisture and prevent fading.

Look for hydrating ingredients like argan oil to maintain moisture and UV protection to prevent fading and brassiness in your freshly colored hair.

Deep Conditioning Treatments for Hair Health and Shine

Deep conditioning treatments revitalize color-treated gray hair by replenishing moisture and strengthening strands.

Weekly protein treatments rebuild damaged cuticles, while DIY masks using natural conditioning agents provide hydration boost for enhanced shine.

Understanding the benefits of quality deep conditioning guarantees long-lasting hydration.

Focus on scalp health with nourishing formulas that improve hair conditioning without stripping color.

These treatments maintain shiny hair appearance longer, ensuring the hair remains healthy with proper care.

Protecting Hair From Sun Exposure and Heat Styling

Your colored hair becomes vulnerable once you step outside or reach for styling tools.

UV rays fade your carefully chosen shade while heat styling creates dry strands and damaged hair.

Apply heat protectants before using any styling tool, keeping temperatures below 350°F.

Hair products with UV filters shield your color investment from sun exposure.

Post-styling care with hydrating treatments maintains hair health and prevents further damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What hair color works best to cover grey?

Absolutely nothing beats permanent hair dye for conquering stubborn grays! You’ll want ash or neutral brown tones since they provide complete coverage without looking artificial or showing harsh regrowth lines.

Is it better to go darker or lighter with grey hair?

Going darker typically works better for covering grey hair.

Darker shades provide superior coverage because they contain more pigment to penetrate resistant grey strands.

Lighter colors often struggle with complete coverage and show regrowth faster.

What do hairdressers use to cover grey hair?

Professional hairdressers typically use permanent hair color with ammonia-based formulas for complete grey coverage. They’ll apply toner afterward and often use techniques like double-processing for stubborn greys that resist color.

Which hair color covers gray the best?

Permanent hair dyes deliver the best gray coverage, with brands like L’Oréal Excellence and Madison Reed offering 100% coverage that lasts 6-8 weeks through deeper color penetration.

What hair color is best over grey?

Ash brown or golden brown shades work best over grey hair because they neutralize brassiness while providing complete coverage.

These colors blend naturally with your existing hair tone and hide regrowth longer.

What hair color cancels out gray?

While gray hair can’t be "canceled out" like color theory suggests, you’ll achieve complete coverage using permanent dyes with ash or neutral tones that penetrate resistant gray strands effectively.

What is the best hair color to blend with gray?

Babylights and ash tones work best for blending gray hair naturally. You’ll get seamless coverage that mimics salt-and-pepper patterns while maintaining dimension and avoiding harsh grow-out lines.

Can gray hair be colored without permanent dye?

Yes, you can color gray hair without permanent dye using semi-permanent, demi-permanent, or temporary options.

These gentler formulas deposit color without harsh chemicals, though they’ll fade faster and may require more frequent touch-ups for complete coverage.

What are the best products for stubborn gray?

For stubborn grays, you’ll need permanent dyes with maximum coverage power. L’Oréal Excellence Creme, Madison Reed, and AGEbeautiful offer the strongest formulas that penetrate resistant hair effectively.

How often should gray coverage be retouched?

Time flies faster than you think – your roots reappear every four to six weeks. You’ll need regular touch-ups to maintain seamless gray coverage and keep that fresh, confident look.

Conclusion

Transformation mirrors life’s journey – what once symbolized age now becomes your canvas for reinvention.

Effective hair coloring for grey coverage isn’t about hiding time’s passage but embracing your evolution with confidence.

Choose formulas that nourish while they color, select shades that complement your skin tone, and maintain your results with proper care.

Whether you prefer salon precision or at-home convenience, the right approach transforms stubborn grays into your signature style, proving beauty transcends age.

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.