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SPF Pilling Under Makeup: Step-by-Step Diagnosis & Fix
SPF Pilling Under Makeup: Step-by-Step Diagnosis & Fix

Pilling • SPF + make-up

SPF Pills Under Make-up: Step-by-Step Diagnosis & Fixes

Pilling isn’t about “a more expensive SPF”. In most cases it’s the amount, timing, and layer compatibility. Here’s a quick diagnosis plus fixes that work immediately.

Shortest answer (80% fix):
  • Simplify your morning: toner → (́(optionally 1 serum or a light cream) → SPF → make-up.
  • Apply SPF in 2 thin layers and let it “set” (light SPF serums 2–3 min, cream SPFs 3–6 min).
  • Apply make-up by tapping/pressing (sponge/fingers) — don’t drag a brush across a still-soft SPF film.

If it happens mainly on dry patches (flaking), it’s often not the product “pilling” but a dry skin surface — then it helps to adjust your base and barrier (links below).

Quick links: make-up friendly texture pickslayer order / timingevening SPF removal (double cleansing)

SPF & make-up: where to start

First, choose an SPF texture that fits — then simplify your base (fewer layers = less pilling).

A base that doesn’t pill

If your skin feels tight or flakes, rolling is more likely. Here’s a safe foundation.

1) Diagnosis: why SPF or make-up pills (pilling)

Most common cause: too many layers + poor timing (you don’t let them “set”), or you’re combining textures that roll on top of each other. For a quick reset, revisit layer order / timing.
  • Test Try “half-face”: on one side do your full routine, on the other skip one step (most often serum or cream). You’ll spot the culprit fast.
  • Less If you’re doing 4 layers + SPF + make-up in the morning, go back to the minimum: toner → (optional serum) → SPF.
  • Friction Rolling is often mechanical: rubbing with hands, sponge or brush over a “still-soft” SPF film.
  • Flakes? If it happens mostly on dry patches, fix the skin surface first: light barrier support + comfort (more tips also in skin barrier repair cream guide).

2) The right SPF amount (and how to apply it without pilling)

The “works instantly” trick: Apply SPF in 2 thin layers instead of one thick layer. The first layer grips, the second evens out coverage — and it rolls less.
If you want texture recommendations by skin type (instead of diagnostics): best SPF textures under make-up.
  • Step 1 After toner/cream, give your skin 1–2 minutes to settle (the surface should feel “dry to the touch”, not slippery).
  • Step 2 Spread SPF gently (no pressure) — more “lay it down” than rub. Sensitive skin can also prefer mineral formulas — see mineral vs. chemical SPF.
  • Step 3 If it pills around the nose/forehead: reduce cream under SPF, or skip it in the T-zone entirely (for many people, toner + SPF is enough).

3) Wait times: when to apply make-up so it doesn’t clump

Minimum for a smooth finish: apply make-up only once SPF has formed an even film. If you want a quick “which textures are make-up friendly” overview, start here: texture picks.
  • 2–3 min Lightweight SPF serums (often ideal under make-up).
  • 3–6 min Creamy SPF (comfortable, but needs more time).
  • Tip Apply make-up by tapping/pressing (sponge/fingers) rather than dragging a brush over the surface.

4) Layer compatibility: what most often causes pilling

If it happens mainly on dry areas or flakes, fix the base first (comfort + barrier support). For “routine timing”, stick to: layer order. If your skin stings / flushes easily, it’s often overload — a short reset helps: sensitive & reactive skin (plan).
  • Often no An overly “slippery” base (lots of gel layers) + a richer SPF → the film has nothing to grip to. Fix: reduce layers, or swap one gel step for a light cream.
  • Often no Too many active steps in the morning (acids / exfoliation / heavy layering) → the surface is more reactive and make-up clings unevenly.
  • Sometimes Certain primers (especially if you add more “slip” steps) can increase rolling. Test: primer only after SPF (and always after a pause), or skip primer entirely.
  • YES One hydrating step (toner) + one targeted step (serum or light cream) + SPF. Minimalism wins.

5) Reapplying SPF over make-up (without ruining the finish)

For “city/office”, it often helps to blot shine first and only then refresh protection. Inspiration: city skin protection. (A mist/powder can improve comfort, but for meaningful reapplication, a thin SPF layer usually wins.)
  • Step 1 Gently press a blotting paper/tissue onto the T-zone (don’t rub).
  • Step 2 Reapply in a thin layer (better in sections: cheeks → forehead → nose/chin).
  • Step 3 Add “finish”: a touch of concealer only where needed, or lean into a natural look — see natural make-up.

VIONE picks that typically layer well under make-up

Want the shortcut? Here are 4 SPF textures that usually behave “clean” (and layer nicely). If you enjoy a deeper comparison, see our Beauty of Joseon SPF review.

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“No-pilling base”: 4 products that often make the difference

If it rolls because of dry patches or an overly slippery base, balanced hydration + barrier support helps. Minimalist: toner → serum → light cream (as needed) → SPF.

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Related reading (SPF cluster)

FAQ (quick answers)

Why does SPF pill even when it’s expensive?

Price alone doesn’t solve texture compatibility. Pilling most often happens because layers are too “slippery”, don’t get time to set, or they roll mechanically from friction during make-up. The fastest fix: simplify (toner → SPF), apply SPF in 2 thin layers, and press/tap your make-up on.

Is it better to wait 1 minute or 10 minutes between layers?

In practice, the “middle” works: 1 minute is often too little (the surface is still wet), 10 minutes is usually unnecessarily long. Aim for 2–3 min for lightweight SPF serums and 3–6 min for creamier SPF — the goal is an even film that feels “dry to the touch”.

Can I apply facial oil before SPF?

Usually, I don’t recommend it. Oil on the surface can reduce how well an SPF film adheres and increase pilling risk — especially under make-up. If you have extremely dry skin, use a small amount of cream/emulsion instead, or support your barrier: skin barrier repair cream guide.

It pills only around my nose and chin. What should I change first?

Most often, it’s “too many layers + too little time”. Shorten your routine to toner → SPF, apply SPF in 2 thin layers, and tap/press your make-up on. If skin is flaking in that area, check your cleansing too: gentle cleansing (no tightness).

Is mineral or chemical SPF better under make-up?

Chemical SPF is often more invisible and very lightweight; mineral can feel more satin-like and suit sensitive skin. Practical comparison: mineral vs. chemical SPF.

Is a BB cream with SPF enough?

Usually not — we apply BB/cushion in a smaller amount than a full SPF layer. Treat them as make-up with a bonus. If you want “one step” natural evenness, explore BB creams & cushions or tinted SPF.

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Gift Ideas for a Man’s 50th Birthday: Luxury Skincare Sets
Gift Ideas for a Man’s 50th Birthday: Luxury Skincare Sets

Looking for a 50th birthday gift for him (dad, partner, or boss) that he’ll actually use? The safest “hit” is a refined 2–3 step routine: serum → comfort cream → SPF (morning). If you don’t know his skin type, choose fragrance-free and barrier-friendly textures. For a quick pick, see Men’s gift sets.

Quick guide: up to 1 500 CZK (safe “blind” pick) • up to 3 000 CZK (cream + SPF) • 3 000+ CZK (luxury ready-made ritual).
Plus: gift-ready packaging and fast dispatch.

Why skincare is an ideal 50th birthday gift (for men 50+)

  • Executive-level comfort: clean textures, often without heavy fragrance, great even post-shave.
  • Visible results: hydration, a firmer-looking finish, a more even tone.
  • Simplicity: 2–3 steps work for anyone (serum → cream → SPF).

Quick gift picks by budget

up to 1 500 CZK — Essential Duo (Hydra CALM)

A lightweight, universal set for daily comfort (safe even as a “blind” gift). Choose the set

up to 3 000 CZK — Essential Duo Hydra RICH (cream + mineral SPF 50)

Richer hydration + refined protection for mornings (perfect for office days). Choose the set

3 000+ CZK — Luxury ready-made ritual (Executive set)

A complete ritual for mature / tired-looking skin: more steps, but thoughtfully curated. Choose the luxury set

Products that work in a gift (picked for men 50+)

We picked 4 safe bets: 2 ready-made sets by budget, 1 luxury ritual, and 1 iconic barrier cream (comfort post-shave).

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How to choose a 50th birthday gift by skin type and lifestyle

Dry / more mature skin (50+)

Go for richer creams with ceramides and lipids + a serum for a firmer, more supple look (peptides/EGF). It creates a luxury gift that improves both comfort and the look of skin.

Sensitive skin & frequent shaving

Choose fragrance-free products with soothing ingredients (panthenol, centella, oats). Finish with a comfortable SPF that feels good to wear.

Office & business (no time)

A fast 2–3 step routine: serum → comfort cream → office-friendly SPF. Goal: no stickiness, no heavy film.

Outdoor & sport

Lightweight textures, stronger daily protection SPF 50+, and easy reapplication. Focus on more durable finishes and practical packaging.

3 fast rituals (morning, evening, sensitive skin & facial hair)

Morning routine (3 min) – for men 50+

Firming-look serum → comfort cream → lightweight SPF.

Evening recovery

Targeted serum/ampoule (elasticity, fine lines) → a cream that seals in hydration.

Sensitive skin & facial hair

Fragrance-free, calming ingredients (centella, panthenol, oats) → lightweight creams that don’t “sit” in facial hair.

Luxury gift packaging & fast dispatch

A navy-gold box, ribbon, and a simple instruction card (2–3 steps). It arrives ready to gift – elegant and representative.

Tip: Add a short note (“For your 50th — feel great every day”). It always works.

Common mistakes when choosing a 50th birthday gift for him

  • Too complicated a routine → stick to 2–3 steps so the gift actually gets used.
  • Strong fragrance → for 50+ skin and post-shave, fragrance-free is usually the safer choice.
  • “Unpleasant” SPF → choose one that feels comfortable (that’s how it becomes a daily habit).

FAQ – 50th birthday gifts for men

How do I choose a 50th birthday gift for him that he’ll actually use?

2–3 steps are enough: a firming-look serum → a comfort cream → a lightweight SPF. It becomes a thoughtful, original gift that makes sense and gets used daily.

“Funny” vs. original 50th birthday gifts for men?

A “funny gift” gets a laugh, but often ends up in a drawer. An original gift like a refined skincare ritual brings comfort and visible results — and gets used.

I don’t know his skin type — what should I choose?

Go with fragrance-free textures and barrier-friendly comfort. A safe choice is a ready-made set, or a universal panthenol cream + a comfortable morning SPF.

Author: VIONE Gift Curator • Updated: Nov 8, 2025

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Cosmetic Gift Sets for Women
Cosmetic Gift Sets for Women
 

Gifts • skincare sets • discovery • vouchers

Cosmetic gift sets for women: how to choose a gift she’ll actually use

A ready-made skincare ritual instead of a random bundle. If you’re looking for cosmetic gift sets for women that won’t end up in a drawer, stick to a simple rule: the set should make sense step-by-step and be easy to start right away – even for a beginner.

The shortest answer: if you know her skin type and you’re close, go for a ready-made routine. If you’re not sure about her skin type, the safest combo is a discovery set + a cosmetics voucher.


Fast track: ready-made gift setsmini & discoverygift vouchersgifts for women

The 10-second rule (no mistakes):

  • I know her skin type (and we’re close) → choose a ready-made skincare routine (a set with clear steps).
  • I don’t know her skin type → get a cosmetics voucher + a small discovery set (textures & tolerance).
  • Skincare isn’t really her thing → keep it super simple (e.g., cleanser + cream) and add a tiny “AM/PM” note.
The VIONE principle: a curated set means compatible textures, a meaningful step order, and an easy guide. It feels like attainable luxury – not a random “a bit of everything” box.

1) Why classic sets often don’t work

A “big drugstore set” often means a random mix of scents, textures, and products that don’t truly work together. The fragrance is too strong, the cream doesn’t suit her, the cleanser feels drying – and part of the gift stays unused.

Smart cosmetic gift sets for women work like a small ritual: they have a clear goal (comfort, barrier, glow) and a simple step order.

2) What a “smart” gift set looks like

  • It follows routine logic: gentle cleanse → toner/essence → serum/cream → morning SPF.
  • It solves one need: dryness, tightness, sensitivity, texture, first lines.
  • It’s easy to follow: she knows what to use in the morning vs. evening.
  • It feels luxurious because it’s good: textures, comfort, thoughtful curation (not just “gold on the box”).

3) Three questions that decide everything

  • Her skin type? (sensitive, dry, combination, acne-prone…)
  • How into skincare is she? minimalist vs. skincare enthusiast.
  • How close are you? partner vs. friend vs. colleague/teacher.

If you’re unsure, go for discovery sets and cosmetics vouchers.

Quick choice: 3 situations, 3 safe picks

When you need to decide fast – without studying skincare.

Gift for women 25+ (prevention, first lines, SPF)

A gift for women 25+ (or around 30) often targets tired-looking skin, first fine lines, and pigmentation prevention. A safe axis is simple: hydration + comfort + SPF.

  • a lightweight hydrating toner or essence (comfort without tightness),
  • a cream with gentle actives (e.g., niacinamide, peptides, ferments),
  • SPF 50 with a great finish – so she’ll actually wear it daily.

For specific inspiration, see Gift for a woman at 25: 4 sure tips.

Gift by relationship: partner vs. friend

  • Partner/wife: you can choose a more complete set (more steps) – especially if you know her skin type.
  • Friend: smaller skincare gift sets or discovery are ideal – they spark a “skincare ritual” without pressure.
  • Colleague/teacher: stick to discreet discovery sets and vouchers – let her choose the details.

More tips: Gifts for women and Christmas gift for a friend: luxury K-beauty tips.

4× luxury cosmetic gift sets for women (ready-made routines)

A curated selection with a clear goal – from comfort & barrier support to smoother texture and glow.

 
 
 
 
  • Calm & Barrier – Evening Reset: an evening set for tightness after cleansing or more sensitive skin.
  • Texture & Glow – Glass Skin Reset: for a smoother-looking skin surface and a “glow” effect.
  • Comfort & Barrier – Dokdo + Kombucha: all-day comfort for drier, reactive skin.
  • Anua Heartleaf Clear & Calm: a versatile choice for sensitive and combination skin (calming + a cleaner feel).

Tip: If you’re choosing “blind”, prioritize sets built around comfort & barrier support – they’re usually the most universal.

Discovery sets & gift vouchers: the safest “blind” choice

If you don’t know her skin type or you’re buying for multiple women, discovery + vouchers are the most reliable option.

 
 
 
 
  • Discovery Set VIONE | Wonder Releaf: a mini routine that shows textures and tolerance – perfect as a “test” gift.
  • Gift vouchers CZK 500 / 1,000 / 1,500: an elegant option when you don’t want to gamble on a specific product type, or she simply loves choosing for herself.

How a voucher works and how to make it feel personal: Cosmetics voucher: an elegant gift that fits every skin type.

How to turn a skincare set into a luxury gift (at any budget)

It’s not only what’s inside the box – it’s how the whole gift feels. If you enjoy the “psychology of gifting”, you can also check “Dárkomluva” on Psychologie.cz – a gift is always a message about the relationship.

  • Gift wrapping: add Gift wrapping and you instantly have a luxury gift that’s ready to hand over.
  • A mini “AM/PM” note: one small card (2–3 lines) massively increases the chance she’ll start using the set right away.
  • A personal message: write why you chose this cosmetic gift set for her (comfort, barrier, glow). It hits harder than “one more extra product”.
Quick message template: “I picked this for calm, comfortable skin. Tonight: 1) cleanse 2) apply 3) cream. In the morning add SPF. Make it your little moment for yourself.”

More inspiration: Christmas hub and Gifts for women.

FAQ: Cosmetic gift sets for women

Which gift set should I choose if I don’t know her skin type?

Stick to discovery set + cosmetics voucher. Discovery lets her test textures and tolerance, and the voucher gives freedom to choose a full-size later. See Discovery and Gift vouchers.

What’s the difference between a curated gift set and a “random” drugstore set?

Curated skincare gift sets are built so the products work together: textures, step order, and the overall goal all make sense. A random set often mixes products that don’t fit into a normal routine – and some of them never get used.

Is a luxury gift for her always expensive?

Not at all. Luxury often comes from smart choice + presentation: a well-picked set, gift wrapping, and a personal message. Even a small discovery set in gift wrapping can feel truly premium.

What if she isn’t into skincare at all?

Choose a super simple set (e.g., cleanser + cream) or a discovery set with a clear “AM/PM” guide. Check Gifts for women or ready-made routines. Add a short note – it invites her into skincare gently.

How quickly should I decide between a set and a voucher?

Use a simple rule: if you know her skin type and you’re close → ready-made routine. If you don’t know her skin type or you have limited info → cosmetics voucher + a small discovery set.

What should I choose for a birthday gift?

For birthdays, the best gifts feel personal. If you know her skin type, choose a ready-made set (comfort/barrier or glow, depending on her vibe). If you’re unsure, choose a voucher and add a small “try-me” touch from discovery.

What to choose for Valentine’s Day so it doesn’t feel like “just more cosmetics”?

Valentine’s Day is perfect for a “ritual”. A ready-made set with a clear story (evening reset / comfort / glow) works beautifully – or a voucher paired with a personal note and a tiny “AM/PM” guide. The fastest choice is a ready-made routine.

What’s the safest choice for sensitive or reactive skin?

For sensitive skin, comfort & barrier support are best: gentle cleansing, hydration, and a cream with a comfortable texture. If you don’t want to risk it, choose a discovery set + a voucher (she can pick the full-size based on tolerance).

Is it better to buy a set, or just add gift wrapping to an order?

A set answers “what exactly should I buy”. Gift wrapping answers “how will it feel”. The best combo is: thoughtful selection + gift wrapping + a short message. That’s how you create a luxury gift without increasing the budget.

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Anti-age 35+: a routine for wrinkles + pigmentation without overloading your skin barrier
Anti-age 35+: a routine for wrinkles + pigmentation without overloading your skin barrier

Skin after 35 (and after 40) often deals with the “real-life mix”: dryness or dehydration, higher sensitivity and pigmentation — and you still want an anti-age result without overloading your barrier. This guide is built like an editorial plan: barrier → smart actives → daily SPF. No chaos — just clear routines and products that work well together.

Skin after 35 (and after 40): an anti-age routine that won’t worsen sensitivity (and improves tone)

The shortest answer (3 pillars):
  • Barrier first (comfort, hydration, ceramides/panthenol). Without it, everything may sting — and pigmentation can keep coming back.
  • Choose actives based on tolerance: 1–2 gentle steps done consistently beats 4 aggressive steps at once.
  • Daily SPF is “anti-age + anti-pigmentation” in one. Without it, results fall apart.

Quick navigation (essential links):

And if you want to go “safely fast”, stick to one rule: stability first (comfortable skin morning and night), then increase intensity.

How to tell “dehydration vs dryness vs irritation”

After 35 and 40, these states often overlap — which is exactly why it’s easy to overdo actives. Here’s a simple way to tell them apart based on what you feel and see:

Mini check: what’s what

comfort • texture • reaction

State How it shows up What usually helps
Dehydration Tightness “from within”, occasional flakes, skin can still look shiny. Makeup highlights texture. Light hydration layers (toner/essence + serum) + cream only as needed.
Dryness More persistent flaking, rougher surface, quick “drying out” during the day. Barrier cream/serum (ceramides, panthenol) + gentle cleansing with no tight feel.
Irritation Burning, stinging, redness, “hot” skin after a product or cleansing. Simplify to 3–4 steps, pause acids/retinoids, strengthen barrier + SPF.
Editor tip: If you’re unsure, treat it as irritation. The quickest anti-age “hack” is calm skin protected by SPF every day.

For faster browsing, use the hubs: cleansing, serums & ampoules, creams, hydration & barrier.

Anti-age actives: what’s low-risk / medium-risk / high-risk

“Anti-age” isn’t about having everything. It’s about the right intensity for your tolerance — and sticking with it for weeks, not three days.

Risk scale (for more sensitive 35/40+ skin)

low → high

Level Typically includes How to use
Low-risk Niacinamide, ceramides, panthenol, peptides, centella, hydrating humectants. Daily, long-term. These are your “stabilizers” for barrier + appearance.
Medium-risk Gentler brighteners (e.g., arbutin), vitamin C in a sensitive routine, PHA / mild exfoliation steps. Introduce one at a time, 3–4× per week based on response. Never “all at once”.
High-risk Retinoids (especially at the start), frequent AHA/BHA, stacking multiple strong actives in one night. Only when the barrier is stable. Start slow, give skin room, watch for irritation.

The golden rule for 35/40+: when you add a retinoid or acids, reduce elsewhere (fewer actives that day, simpler routine overall).

Pigmentation: how to combine brightening with skin tolerance

After 35 and 40, pigmentation is often not just “a spot” — it’s a mix of UV exposure, inflammation (even micro-irritation) and uneven regeneration. That’s why the best strategy is surprisingly quiet:

  1. Daily SPF (otherwise spots return easily).
  2. Gentle brightening consistently (one product you can tolerate long-term).
  3. Barrier support as insurance — so skin doesn’t react with redness that can worsen pigmentation.
Mixing rule: In one evening, keep it to max 1 brightening “active” step + 1 barrier step. More can give a short-term glow, but often leads to long-term sensitivity.

If you want direct inspiration by goal, go here: pigmentation & dull tone and for anti-age context: mature skin 35+.

3 ready-made routines (minimal / medium / “skincare nerd”)

Pick the level based on how much you want to manage. All three stand on the same base: comfort + SPF.

Routines that stay on track

AM/PM

1) Minimal (for more sensitive periods)

  • AM: gentle cleanse (or just rinse) → light hydration/barrier → SPF
  • PM: remove SPF → gentle cleanse → barrier serum/cream

2) Medium (anti-age + even tone, no drama)

  • AM: hydration → brightening serum → SPF
  • PM: cleanse → barrier serum → cream

3) “Skincare nerd” (when your skin is stable)

  • AM: hydration → brightening → SPF (keep layers light so SPF sits well)
  • PM: 2–3 nights/week an “active night” (retinoid or gentle exfoliation) + barrier the rest of the week
  • Stop signal: burning/redness = go back to the minimal routine for a few days

Editor’s pick from VIONE.cz: products that work together (anti-age + pigmentation + comfort)

This is a curated set for 35/40+ with no internal “conflicts”: comfort and barrier first, then tone-evening, and finally a stable SPF finish.

How to build it (fast, no chaos)

minimum → upgrade

  • Minimum: cleansing oil (PM) + gentle cleanser + barrier cream/serum + SPF.
  • Tone & glow without irritation: add 1 brightening serum (AM or every other day).
  • Texture & elasticity: add a “smoothing” ampoule as a comfortable anti-age upgrade.
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The #1 reason anti-age after 35/40 doesn’t work

It’s not a “bad product.” It’s overload: too many actives at once, too little consistent SPF, and no room for the barrier to recover. The moment skin starts burning or turning red, texture looks worse — and pigmentation tends to return in waves.

7-day practical reset: PM: remove SPF + gentle cleanse + barrier cream/serum. AM: light hydration + SPF. Once skin is calm, add 1 brightening step.

FAQ: 35 to 40+ anti-age without overloading your barrier

What’s better for pigmentation: vitamin C or something gentler?

For more sensitive skin, “gentle and consistent” often wins. If vitamin C irritates you, choose a brightening step you can tolerate long-term (and stick to the rule: one active step per AM/PM). The key is always daily SPF — otherwise pigmentation loves to return.

Can I use a retinoid if my skin is sensitive?

Yes — but only once your barrier is stable. Start slowly (e.g., 2× per week), keep the rest of the evening simple (barrier + cream), and watch for redness/burning. If it shows up, go back to the minimal routine for a few days.

Is SPF enough only in summer?

No. For anti-age and pigmentation, the most reliable result is SPF every day. If SPF feels good in texture and finish, you’ll actually wear it — and that’s the “magic” that makes the difference.

How do I know I’ve overworked my barrier?

Typical signs are burning, “hot” skin, redness, or tightness right after cleansing and after products. In that case, reduce actives and return to a simple plan: cleansing + barrier + SPF.

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