November 2020 Empties
* = disliked the product - would not repurchase
** = liked the product - would not repurchase
*** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase
**** = loved the product - would repurchase
*HOLY GRAIL!*
1. innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask 2x (10ml / 0.33oz)
source: innisfree sample w/ purchase
thoughts: I haven’t used a clay mask in a long time. I do find it nice to use one once in a while but I’m not a big fan of it that I would keep a full size in my stash. I much rather prefer just using sheet masks.
rating: ***
2. innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Toner 2x (15ml / 0.5oz)
source: innisfree sample w/ purchase
thoughts: I have’t used innisfree products in a long time, that I have forgotten how scented innisfree products are. They smell amazing but the scent is quite strong but I don’t mind it, I did have to get use to it. I have started using products that aren’t as heavily scented but this one smelt very nice to me. The product itself seemed fine, but it is hard for me to say since I didn’t use this product for a long time. However, I’m loving all my current products right now.
rating: **
3. QUO Organic Cotton Pads (100 pads)
source: Real Canadian Superstore
thoughts: These cotton pads felt a little more rough than the other one I tried previously. I didn’t find it as soft plus these came with less pads for the same price.
rating: *
4. By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water (5ml / 0.16oz)
source: Wishtrend sample w/ purchase
thoughts: I was able to get 3 uses out of this sample. I haven’t used an acid on my face for a long time aside from a vitamin C serum that I’ve tried. It did sting when I went over open wounds which is to be expected but I forgot how that pain felt since I haven’t used this in a long time. I really like this since every time I do use this I find my face texture does get a lot smoother.
rating: ****
5. isNtree Spot Saver Mugwort Powder Wash (25 packets)
source: Credithink?
thoughts: I really enjoyed using these. I found that my skin felt more refreshed and it did help in the texture of my skin. I love how that it’s also portioned out. The only downside is that it’s not very cost effective or environmentally friendly. However, my initial thought of purchasing these were for travel but since covid happened I do have a stash of these kind of one-time washes just sitting around.
rating: ***
6. celimax The Real Noni Energy Ampule (30ml)
source: YesStyle
thoughts: This has a herbal kind of scent to it, but I don’t mind. I felt my skin was very moisturized and plump when I used this. The consistency of this is a little thick and sticky, but it does go away. The packaging to my surprise was plastic and not made of glass. It was also very simple, but I love the fact that the top is a twist dropper where it will automatically suck up product when you twist the cap.
rating: ***
7. CrediThink Soft Cotton Pads (40pads)
source: CrediThink
thoughts: These were pretty good, but not as soft as the unisoft ones.
rating: *
8. dear, klairs Daily Skin Hydrating Water (500ml / 16.90oz)
source: Wishtrend
thoughts: This was an amazingly large bottle. I haven’t seen something like this size before. I did test it out using it like an essence for a few weeks, but I mainly used it as a toner. I liked how refreshing and soothing it was, plus you can also use this as a mist in the summer or even a quick mask. I do not detect any scent to this, plus there aren’t too many ingredients on the list as well. I finished this in 166 days, almost 6 months. I got this on sale during Black Friday in 2019 for $16.07USD because it was part of a set. For the price I paid for this and the duration, I think it was really worth it. I can’t wait to try the other one, but I think I’m going to wait a bit before I try that since the product will last so long.
rating: ****
9. Bath & Body Works Micellar Gentle Foaming Hand Soap: Island Papaya (259ml / 8.75oz)
source: Bath & Body Works
thoughts: I didn’t find much of a difference to the formulation or cleansing power compared to the regular version. I love the scent of this one, which consist of tropical coconut, fresh papaya, and sugarcane. Usually these soaps last a long time for me, however with Covid the soap has been going a lot faster. I love the scent of this but I believe this was a summer scent.
rating: ***
10. Muji Organic Tea Apple & Elderflower (9 tea bags)
source: Muji Japan
thoughts: I really loved this tea. I really like teas that have an apple scent/ flavour to it because it almost tastes like apple cider in a way.
rating: ****
Throw Away
These products are either old/expired or have been opened for a long time, hence I’m discarding them.
1. Aromatica Neroli Brightening Organic Oil
- Reviews of this were good but the one I received had half solidified and could barely get anything.
2. Harajuku Lovers Fragrance Sampler
3. OUAI Rose Hair & Body Oil
4. OUAI Finishing Creme
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My Current Skincare Routine
I believe in investing in your skin because it's going to represent you for a very long time. As much as I love wearing makeup, I’d still wanna look natural on the outside. But I also want to go out in public and not wear that much makeup. That’s why I'm a big believer that if you focus on your skincare, you really won't need a lot of makeup. Skincare is self-care.
Just a background story of my skin lol.
This is me back in High School.
Back when I was in high school (the puberty period), I literally have no problem with my skin. I never had any kind of breakout the whole high school life, and for that, I considered myself lucky. I don’t know if it’s in our genes or what, but I think my irregular period explained why I don't break out? I'm not sure hehe.
But when I stepped into college, that’s when I started having cystic acne, just once every month. I noticed my skin reacts in a different environment than I’m used to. Like when I was in college, I was studying in Manila. Manila is known for its air pollution because of traffic congestion. I have also found out that the water in Manila has chlorine, and I feel like my skin gets irritated, and that causes acne or breakout.
My brother who lives in South Korea sent a lot of skin care products. ca. 2017
I started using skincare products when I was in college, but mostly it's just facial wash, toner, and moisturizer. Then 3 years ago, I started putting serum on my face, a sheet mask or clay mask, and my skin feels so good after. My face feels so hydrated and the product that I used which is Innisfree works for me.
April 2018
RECENT BREAKOUT STORY (2020)
Ever since this pandemic and lockdown happened, I started breaking out. My skin became super oily, I thought maybe it was just the heat because it was summer then. I update my skincare, and nothing seems to work on me. And then I thought, maybe it was a hormonal imbalance, so I started taking pills for two months, still not working. The worst part of it, my pimples are cystic. Before, whenever I get a pimple it was just once every month. But now, when one pimple heals, there's another one comes, and they're mostly on my T-zones, which is the oiliest part of my face. I was so stressed about it, so I decided to see a Dermatologist at Cutis Essentials. Take note: this is my first time seeing and consulting a Dermatologist.
In order for the Doctor to treat me, she asked me a bunch of questions like, what kind of product do I use, she asked about my skin history and family history, and if I am taking some medicines or vitamins, and so on. And from that, I have learned that too much Vitamin E, B6, and B12 can cause acne. I have never taken any kind of vitamins in my whole adult life because I hate drinking medicines, but since there's a virus spreading all over the world, killing millions of people, I started taking it to boost my immune system. She gave me an oral medicine called Doxycycline and Epiduo Gel that dries up my acne. I stopped taking my pills and multivitamins and just stick to Vitamin C. I also stopped using this cleanser St. Ives Apricot Scrub and switch to a more mild facial cleanser. And hurrah, I finally see a good result. My face started clearing up little by little, and the oiliness lessens a bit. All I need to do is to get rid of my dark spots, which takes time.
The thing with doing your skincare routine, you have to stick with it consistently. And I gotta admit, there are days that I'm so lazy to do it and just skip some steps. Like sometimes I just removed my makeup, washed it, then put some toner to clean the excess dirt, then I'm done. That's my slacky routine. Don't do it hehe.
I did a one week sheet mask challenge and my skin feels so good after. I definitely recommend this product that I got from BeautyMnl. It’s called Superfood Coconut Salad Mask Package from the brand Farm Skin. Last pic on the lower right, that’s The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution.
A video of my skincare routine. Sorry if it’s a bit confusing LOL. I’ll make a better video next time hehe.
MY CURRENT SKINCARE ROUTINE & HOW TO LAYER PRODUCTS:
I want to be clear, I am not a dermatologist or esthetician, but this method has worked for me. If your skin is irritated, I recommend hitting the reset button and start from scratch. Try introducing new products one at a time and use it consistently for a few days to see if it's working for you. Also, try to learn more about what your skin needs. Like if you have dry skin, moisturizer and hydrate i every day. If you have an oily skin like me, try to lessen the products that’s very greasy, and don’t use it during the day. Just stick with light moisturizer. It is a little bit of a process and takes time, but once you have it figured out, your skincare routine will be on autopilot, and your skin will look better and better.
Here are the products that I am currently using:
FACIAL CLEANSER
Brand: COSRX
AC Collection Foaming Cleanser
Cosrx is a Korean product. This gentle foam cleanser fights acne. It manages excess oil, without stripping skin of essential moisture. With BHA to exfoliate, lauric acid to provide antibacterial support, and centella ingredients to soothe, this creamy cleanser clears skin while keeping irritation at bay. | I have been using this for 3 months now and the brand works on me. My skin feels so soft after using this.
TONER
Brand: COSRX
AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
Formulated with AHA, BHA and purifying botanical ingredients, the AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner works to soothe, refresh and soften the skin. It is effective for hydrating evening skin tone and texture, and it’s a mild exfoliation. | This toner for me is very gentle and it doesn’t sting and harsh like the other toner that I used before.
MOISTURIZER
Brand: COSRX
AC Collection Light Weight Soothing Moisturizer
This cream moisturizer provides light, non-sticky hydration for acne-prone skin. Made with asiatic acid, niacinamide, and zinc salt, it calms and strengthens skin’s moisture barrier while controlling excess oil. | I love this moisturizer! It’s not greasy so it’s okay to use it during the day because it’s fast-absorbing.
SERUM
Brand: THE ORDINARY
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The Ordinary comes from Canada. A high-strength vitamin- and mineral-packed formula to minimize the look of blemishes. Contains a high 10% concentration of niacinamide (vitamin B3); reduces the appearance of spots, marks, and congestion; supported by zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid to balance visible aspects of sebum activity. | I’ve heard a lot of good reviews about this product so I tried it, and the brand works for me. It just really takes time to lighten up my dark spots but it works.
EXFOLIATION
Brand: THE ORDINARY
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
A 10-minute liquid mask treatment that exfoliates to visibly improve skin texture and tone. This product goal is to enhance brightness, even out skin, and decongest pores; exfoliates the topmost epidermal surface; helps fight visible blemishes for improved radiance; reduces the look of fine lines with continued use. | Take note: this peeling solution stings for a few sec, but it’s tolerable. Read the instruction first before using this product. When I first used this, I noticed my skin feels like a glass skin, like it looks healthy. I was expecting my face to peel, but it didn’t. I only use this 2-3x a week or whenever my skin needs it.
PROTECTION
Brand: THE ORDINARY
Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone
Helps reverse multiple signs of skin aging with vitamin C, an effective antioxidant; naturally brightens and refines tone and texture; feels smooth on the skin thanks to very light silicones despite the suspension format of the formulation. | I just recently purchased this and I think it’s a great add for my skincare routine to reduce all the blemishes on my face and fights skin aging because well, I’m not getting any younger anymore. This one is a bit greasy so I only use this in the evening, and it has an off smell but fades away for a few sec.
CLAY MASK
Brand: INNISFREE
Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask 2X
Innisfree is a Korean product. Features 2x more powerful adherence to sebum for intensive pore care; provides triple exfoliation from encapsulated Jeju volcanic scoria, walnut shell powder, and AHA; enhanced deep cleansing formula removes away fine dust particles, pore-clogging dirt, and dead skin cells; provides powerful sebum-absorbing capacity as it washes away impurities while moisturizing and brightening skin; leaves a cooling sensation when applied that refreshes pores. | I have been using the 1.0 version of this for 3 years, which is the Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask without 2x. I super love this clay mask because this brighten up my dark spots so fast. I only use this 2-3x a week or whenever my face needs it. I recommend this product.
SHEET MASK
Brand: INNISFREE
My Real Squeeze Mask
These face masks are dew-licious skin treats that target your skin's unique concerns and bump your entire routine up a notch. | So Innisfree has a lot of sheet mask that can be tailored to your skin's daily needs. All I can say that whenever I use this sheet mask, my face feels so hydrated, and fresh. It’s an instant boost for my skin. So every time my face looks so dry and dull, I use this product.
LASH BOOST
Brand: SKIN GENIE
Hair Growth Booster
Skin Genie is a Philippine product. This nourishing clear serum is the answer to fuller brows and lashes. It helps minimize hair loss, prevent breakage, and prime the strands for healthier regrowth. | This product smells so good and I noticed that my lashes became more stronger, longer, and a bit thicker. It will just take times but it works its magic. I put this if I’m about to sleep because the serum goes inside my eyes and kinda sting a little bit.
LIP CARE
Brand: VASELINE
Lip Therapy
A lip-healing jelly with a mouthwatering chocolate fragrance for silky, supple lips. Clinically proven to moisturize chapped lips; instantly softens and soothes dryness and flaking; locks in moisture to help lips recover from discomfort; leaves a healthy, glossy shine; non-sticky formula glides on smoothly. | My lips get dry very easily, and it always turned chapped. Before I go to sleep, I always make sure to put some of this and viola, the next morning my lips feel so soft and hydrated. I used cocoa butter at night, then I use rosy lips during the day whenever I put my makeup on, and they smell so good.
MOISTURIZER
Brand: NATURE REPUBLIC
Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel
A hydrating and cooling gel containing 92% pure aloe vera. Gently moisturizes all skin types, including sensitive skin; soothes and refreshes dry, dehydrated, inflamed, and sunburnt areas; firms skin and naturally protects with vitamins C, E, and other minerals; fast-absorbing gel won’t leave a greasy feel; can be used on hair, face, and body as a moisturizer, mask, and/or sleeping pack | I super love this product. I have been using this for more than 2 years now and it does wonder on my skin. I use it on my hair and body too.
ANTI-ACNE GEL
Brand: GALDERMA
Epiduo Gel (Adapalene and Benzoyl Peroxide) 0.1%/2.5%
Epiduo is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of Acne Vulgaris. Epiduo may be used alone or with other medications. Epiduo belongs to a class of drugs called Acne Agents, Topical Combos. | This gel is pricey, and this was prescribed to me by my Dermatologist. I still use this whenever I have acne, and it dries up my acne fast.
ACNE PATCH
Brand: COSRX
Acne Pimple Master Patch
This is the original set of hydrocolloid stickers that comes with three different sizes to spot-correct pimples. It heals intensively overnight, protecting problem areas from infection and brings out deep-rooted blemishes without leaving behind scars. Slap a patch on your breakouts for instant relief away from bacteria. This will stop the insane urge to pick at your skin and pop your pimples. It’s made with A.D.F. hydrocolloid dressing, a unique material that helps extract gunk from stubborn zits and speeds up their life cycle. | I absolutely love this patch. I use this in the evening whenever I have a very bad acne. TIP: I use the Epiduo Gel first, applied it on my acne, and then let it dry first before putting the patch. I promise, the next day your acne heals so fast! But sometimes, if it's cystic, it will take a few try like 2-3 patch every night.
ACNE PATCH
Brand: LUXE ORGANIX
Hydrocolloid Acne Spot Patch Night Time
When patched to acne; it increasingly absorbs the pus and oil to reduce inflammation and fasten the healing process. This brand is from Korea. | This product works well on me too, plus it contains more patches than Cosrx. Cosrx isn't available in most stores here in Bataan, so I have to order it online. I just go to Watson and buy this, which is very convenient for me.
CLEANSER
Soft Silicone Facial Cleansing Brush
Gently scrub your face with this along with the Foaming Cleanser, it is easy to use. It is great for getting rid of dirt and clogged up skin. I noticed that after I wash my face with full on makeup, it get rids all the excess makeup and dirt that you have on your face because whenever I apply my toner, you can’t barely see any dirt. You better get one of this. I got mine from Watson, and it is very affordable.
FACIAL MASSAGE
Brand: BE KIND
Jade Facial Roller + Guasha Set
This beauty tool duo will renew fatigued skin in just a few cooling strokes. Made from 100% authentic jade, each tool is uniquely designed for restorative facial massages. Not only do these tools boost product absorption, they also offer different types of massages. The roller stimulates lymphatic drainage that reduces puffiness, while the gua sha relieves tense facial muscles. When used together, they liven up dull skin for a fresh, well-rested look. | Sadly, I broke my jade roller, but I am getting one soon. Make sure that before you use this tool, put it first on the freezer for a few minutes, and it feels so good, I swear! I used the jade roller whenever I put on my sheet mask. While I used guasha whenever I put on my moisturizer because it glides really well when your skin is moisturize.
OIL CONTROL
Brand: THE FACE SHOP
Oil Blotting Films
Contains 50 silky-soft blotting sheets; made with excellent oil-absorbing 3M film; works to absorb excess sebum; leaves skin looking fresh and grease-free. | I read that if you have oily skin and you're wearing makeup, don't put on another layer of powder just to get rid of the oiliness on your face. Instead, use this oil-blotting film to remove all the oil before retouching your makeup. It's a helpful way not to clog your pores and for your makeup not to look cakey.
More skincare products that works on me but I don’t use it anymore:
MOISTURIZER
Brand: DRUNK ELEPHANT
Protini™ Polypeptide Cream
Protini’s proprietary formula restores younger, revived-looking skin, almostfrom the first application. Lines, wrinkles, and signs of sun damage appearreduced, and skin feels strengthened and moisturized. | I only have the sample bottle of this because this brand is a little expensive but I heard a lot of good reviews on this. It’s a bit thick for my taste, so I make sure to wear this at night and not under my makeup, that’s only if you have oily skin.
SHEET MASK
Brand: FARMSKIN
Superfood Coconut Salad Mask Package
A set of 7 sheet masks that leaves your skin brighter, hydrated, and more youthful. Nourish, moisturize, and illuminate skin with this set of sheet masks formulated with a combination of superfoods and colostrum ingredient. | First time using this product, and so far, it doesn't have any negative reaction on my skin since they used organic ingredients on their products. Farmskin has different kinds of sheet mask packages, and it is tailored depends on your skin's daily needs. This package is for brightening and hydrating my face since I need to get rid of my blemishes and dark spots.
FACIAL OIL
Brand: HERES B2UTY
Tea Tree Oil Serum
A multi-benefit serum that clarifies your complexion. Treats acne and soothes redness and swelling with tea tree oil; enriched with green tea, which contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory catechins to hydrate and regulate excess oil production; fades spots, eliminates acne scars, and protects against free radicals with chamomile, a powerhouse antioxidant; improves moisture levels as it minimizes the look of fine lines and wrinkles with rose hip oil; alleviates irritation as it tightens skin with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory witch hazel; draws moisture to skin with hyaluronic acid to revitalize skin’s outer layers; plumps, restores, and renews to instantly improve the appearance of fine lines. | When I started using this, I thought it was to prevent me from having acne. This oil doesn't work on my acne though, but it lessens the oiliness on my face. I just don't use it very often because I'm so lazy or sometimes I forgot. LOL
TONER
Brand: ESKINOL
Spotless White Classic Cleanser
Eskinol provides products which are specifically formulated for the Filipina skin. Its range of products is known to effectively solve oily skin problems and pimples. Removes deep-seated dirt, excess oil, and makeup with micro-cleanse anti-bacterial formula. Pure Calamansi extracts known to whiten skin. It has vitamin C derivatives to help lighten dark spots in as early as 1 week for an even skin tone. | This product is classic and very effective that's why until now it's still here, unlike other brands being discontinued in the market. I have been using this since college, but later on this particular calamansi formula is more effective on me, while the other formula doesn't work on me.
BUYING THESE PRODUCT SOON:
PROTECTION
Brand: COSRX
Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++
An aloe-infused moisturizing sunscreen for dehydrated skin. Protects skin from ultraviolet rays and other environmental damages with SPF50 PA+++ | I’m reading a lot of good reviews about this product, so I am adding this to my cart now hehe.
EYE CREAM
Brand: NEUTROGENA
Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream
Help improve the signs of skin aging with Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream. Specially formulated for the delicate eye area, the fast-acting retinol cream helps fade the look of stubborn crow's feet, brightens and evens skin tone in the under-eye area, helps smooth fine lines and texture, and reduces the look of dark circles. This clinically proven retinol formula works quickly with visible results in just one week. | It says that this is the best eye cream for 2020 so let’s see if it’s going to work on my eyes hehe.
Whew! That was a lot of information. I hope you find this helpful and give your skin the love it deserves. If you have any questions or suggestion please don’t be afraid to say it to me. Til next time!
Love Lots,
Jamie ♡
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Skincare Routine
Before anything else, I just want to let you know that my skin is not perfect but it’s way better and healthier than before. First step on purchasing anything that you will use on your face is to know your skin type. Mine’s combination - oily on the t-zone and dry to normal on the side.
Facial Cleansers
Cosrx LowPH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
This is what I use in the morning. It’s a gentle cleanser and it doesn’t sting. It has a different scent compared to the other cleansers I’ve used before but I got used to it.
Price: 400-450php
Cosrx Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
I use this at night. My brother who has acne uses this one too and he likes it. Same with the Good Morning Cleanser, this one has a “medicine” scent but I got used to it.
Price: 375-400php
Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam
I used this before but when my skin got used to it, my skin got oilier so I stopped using this one. I recommend using this but not on a daily basis.
Price: 330-350php
Exfoliators
Exfoliation is important because it removes dead skin cells, cleans out your pores and leaves your skin glowing after. I do this 2-3 times a week.
Human Nature Balancing Facial Wash
This is a good exfoliator and it’s inexpensive. It smells so good too. I love this local brand. It’s a good dupe to the other expensive brands in the market.
Price: 80php
Himalaya Deep Cleansing Apricot Facial Wash
I just tried this one and it works well on my skin too. It smells so good.
Price: 170-180php
Toners
Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Toner
I’ve tried the smaller one and I really liked. The thing is, it’s quiet expensive to buy a bigger one so I stopped using it.
Price: 750-800php
Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner
This one is gentle and doesn’t sting. It’s like using water as toner but better. I also stopped using this because it’s too pricey.
Price: 1,150php
Human Nature Balancing Face Toner
My favorite! It works really well on my skin and it doesn’t break the bank. It smells so good too and it doesn’t sting.
Price: 80-100php
Clay Masks
I use this once or twice a week.
Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask
I used this before and I really liked it. I just stopped using it because I need to order it online and as much as possible, I prefer products that are available and can be found in a physical store.
Price: 550php
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
Worth the hype! Mix a tablespoon of this with Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar. The consistency should be like a melted ice cream. I use brush when applying it on my face. Don’t use metal on mixing this, use plastic or rubber. The smell is quite strong but you’ll get used to it.
Price: 500-600php
Moisturizer and Serum
Nature Republic Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel Mist
This is the only one that I like compared to all the aloe vera products that I’ve used before. I like this better than the gel inside the tub because it’s less messier and easier to use. This can be used everyday, day and night.
Price: 270-300php
Dear Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop
I’ve heard many good reviews about this and all I can say is it’s worth the hype! I finally gave in and bought this one. It’s pricey, I know but it works really well on me. I’ve been using this for weeks but I can tell that my pimple scars lightened up and I can feel my skin got better. I only use this 3x a week. I also store this in the fridge.
Price: 1,200-1,400php
Other Products
Cosrx Acne Pimple Master Patch
I love this and it works for my pimples.
Price: 190-200php
Belo Tinted Sunscreen
Using sunscreen whenever you go out in the day is a must! I don’t use other BB cream anymore because this does the job.
Price: 170-440php
These are the products/brands that I love using because they work on my skin type. I hope I helped you by sharing my skincare routine. Make sure that before you buy, research first so you won’t waste your hard-earned money. But when you can’t find products that work on you, it’s better to visit your dermatologist.
If you have any questions/suggestions, comment down below or message me. :)
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