Defining Skincare

Skincare Products

Skincare includes products for the skin. This includes cleansers, exfoliants, moisturizers, acne treatments, anti-aging treatments, serums for specific skin concerns, as well as sunscreen. Find Skincare product recommendations for specific skin concerns and skincare products using organic ingredients.

Skin care includes ways to care for the skin, including facial skin, throat, decolletage, and body skin. Visit the Skin Care guide section of StyleChicks for more skin care how-to information.

How Aloe Vera Can Make Your Skin’s Collagen Better

April 8, 2025 · Leave a Comment

We all know Aloe Vera can soothe a sunburn or help heal a scraped knee. But exciting research now explains how this well-known wound healer can improve the appearance of skin, namely by ramping up Collagen type III production, enhancing elastin, and restoring moisture to dry, hardened skin.

About Aloe Vera Gel

Did your Grandma keep an Aloe Vera plant in her kitchen? This folklore remedy has been used for a variety of skin conditions ranging from bug bites to sun burn. But this humble plant boasts big beauty benefits.

Aloe Vera gel contains over 75 nutrients to feed the skin. Two important nutrients for younger looking skin are Glucomannan and Amino Acids.

Glucomannan is a big part of why Aloe gel is such a great healer. It is also why Aloe can produce younger looking skin.

THE RESEARCH: Collagen Production and Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera contributes to collagen regeneration which is helpful in wound healing.

Topical Aloe Vera gel application causes its’ Glucomannan to interact with skin fibroblasts. That significantly increases collagen synthesis. ^[1]

But here is the best part:

Studies show aloe gel not only increased the collagen in a wound, but changed the collagen composition to increased collagen type III.

Collagen type III is also known as “baby collagen”. Baby collagen is the best kind of collagen for youthful skin. We lose Collagen type III with age.

Studies also show topical Aloe gel application increased the degree of collagen cross linking. This contracts the skin. Another benefit is it also increases hyaluronic acid synthesis. ^[2]

What does that mean?

Aloe Vera gel on a wound causes optimal scar tissue healing (smaller, tighter, smoother scars)^[3]
Aloe Vera gel on skin can increase collagen III and hyaluronic acid – two sources of youthful skin

I am SO slathering my face and throat with Aloe gel now.

Moisturizing and anti-aging Benefits

Mucopolysaccharides help in binding moisture into the skin.

Aloe stimulates fibroblast also stimulates elastin fibers. Elastin gives skin its springy bounce back. The more elastic the skin is, the less wrinkled.

It also has cohesive effects on the superficial flaking epidermal cells by sticking them together, which softens the skin.

Aloe Vera, also known as Aloe barbadensis miller, contains ample Amino acids. These amino acids soften hardened skin cells.

One study found wearing aloe vera gel gloves “improved the skin integrity, decreases appearance of fine wrinkle and decreases erythema”. ^[4]

Summary of How Aloe Vera Can Make Your Skin’s Collagen Better

Topical Aloe Vera gel application can stimulate key younger skin components which we lose with age: collagen type III, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. The Amino acids in Aloe gel can soften hardened skin and improve chronically dry skin, along with decreasing fine wrinkle appearance.

Was this Ingredient Overview helpful? Then you may like other Ingredients Overviews such as:

Find more natural ingredients in the Style Chicks Defining Beauty Glossary. The Defining Beauty Glossary contains many helpful hair and skin care ingredients.

Want to know more about natural ingredients that support Collagen type III production? Read about Shisiedo’s Groundbreaking study in this article.

Thinking about jumping starting your collagen enhancement with an at-home skin device?

You may enjoy reading our interview with ENDYMED, the makers of the FDA-approved NEWA device in our article entitled “ENDYMED ANSWERS QUESTIONS ABOUT NEWA AT-HOME SKIN-TIGHTENING”

References

Chithra R Sajithlal GB, Chandrakasan G. Influence of aloe vera on collagen characteristics in healing dermal wounds in rats. Mol Cell Biochem. 1998;181:71–6.
Heggers J, Kucukcelebi A, Listengarten D, Stabenau J, Ko F, Broemeling LD, et al. Beneficial effect of aloe on wound healing in an excisional wound model. J Altern Complement Med. 1996;2:271–7.
Chithra P, Sajithlal G, Chandrakasan G. Influence of aloe vera on the glycosaminoglycans in the matrix of healing dermal wounds in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 1998;59:179–86.
West DP, Zhu YF. Evaluation of aloe vera gel gloves in the treatment of dry skin associated with occupational exposure. Am J Infect Control. 2003 Feb;31(1):40-2. doi: 10.1067/mic.2003.12.

How to Best Use the Nira Precision Laser

March 7, 2025 ·

REVIEW + GUIDE for the NIRA PRECISION LASER DEVICE

We previously featured NIRA. NIRA is an FDA-approved, at-home use non-fractional at-home laser device tightens skin in 2 minutes a day.

This handheld dermatological device stimulates natural collagen production for younger looking skin and works in the small tricky crevice areas like around the browbone, crow’s feet, mouth, and eleven lines.

In this guide we tell our experience with the Nira Precision Skincare Laser and how to use NIRA.

Meet NIRA Precision: an FDA approved skin care device for at-home use

Meet NIRA: an FDA approved skin care device for at-home use

See Part One of this two part series: How Does the NIRA Skincare Laser work?

What Is NIRA Precision Skincare Laser?

The NIRA Precision Skincare Laser offers a method of collagen building without the risks associated with in-office fractional laser skin resurfacing.

And it is far less painful. No risks or downtime.

The improvement is slow and subtle. But it is notable.

The NIRA Precision laser device is an ergonomically shaped tool that is lightweight and fits in your hand.

The device is an ergonomically shaped tool that is lightweight and fits in your hand

NIRA Precision Device Bundle

Here is what came in my NIRA skincare laser bundle:

NIRA Precision comes with the device and a Hyaluronic Acid serum

The bundle comes with the device and a Hyaluronic Acid serum

NIRA Precision comes with a charger

The Treatment Head

The treatment head makes direct contact with the skin.

Because the head is small (about the size of a pencil head eraser) the treatment can be very targeted to thin skin areas a fractional (damaging) laser could not normally treat.

Two examples are around the mouth and the orbital eye area.

The NIRA Precision Skincare Laser treatment head is small enough to fit into crevices and target fine lines

Meet NIRA: an FDA approved skin care device for at-home use

Side view of the device

Close up of the treatment head

The body of the laser device lights up for the increment levels from low to high

Hyaluronic Acid Serum

The serum is hyaluronic acid – no extra bells and whistles. No fillers, parabens, and it is fragrance-free.

You may have a HA product you love, but for this purpose, choose one without extra treating ingredients so you can best tolerate the treatment.

Nira Hyaluronic Acid Serum enhances Nira Precision results

NIRA Hyaluronic Acid Advanced Serum is oil free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free

How to Best Use Nira Precision

The instructions are simple.

Wash and dry the area to be treated.
Now turn the device on.
Press the button again to increase or decrease the strength level between 1 and 5.
For your first session, start at one or two green bars.
Place the circle tip head directly and evenly against your skin where you desire treatment.
Press the big button to activate the “burst” of energy.
Listen for the two beeps. You will feel the “burst”.
Adjust the level of green bars to your comfort. Some areas won’t hurt at all with 4 or 5 bars. But other areas are more sensitive. Determine your comfort level per area.
Move over to the next spot and repeat until you have treated the entire area.
Repeat a second treatment on the area, so that the area is treated twice. (every spot gets two bursts total)
Focus on one small area at a time for best results.
Then repeat in the next area.
End your session or move onto the next area to be treated.
Once treatment is complete, apply the Hyaluronic Acid.
It is about two minutes to treat each area.
Each area should get two treatments, but don’t do them twice in succession.
Complete the treatment area and start over.

How to DECODE THE NIRA Precision BEEP Sounds

There are 3 distinct sounds to help you use the device properly.

You should hear two sounds each time you press the button.

WHAT IS THE NIRA FIRED CORRECTLY SOUND?

When you correctly fired the energy burst, there are two quick beeps.

WHAT IS THE NIRA MISFIRED SOUND?

if the head is misaligned or on an uneven surface or misfired, it is one beep before a losing a game show like buzz.
When you hear that, you will need to redo that spot. This happens most often along contours and curves of the face.

WHAT IS THE BURST COUNT SOUND?

Periodically there is a two-beat third sound that is just keeping count of how many bursts have happened so far in the session.

All is well!

What is the PAIN LEVEL of NIRA?

It is not completely painless, but not bad. Its a quick little “zap”.

What can I do if it is uncomfortable to use the device?

If it is too uncomfortable, choose a lower setting.
You control when the burst occurs, so you can be ready for it.
We recommend starting with level 1 or 2 the first time just to know what to expect.

RESULTS

The device is quite useful on forehead wrinkles and around the eyes. I really like it to firm and tone around the browbone, crow’s feet and to contour my lip line.

NIRA tackles pesky tell tale signs of aging such as crows feet, eleven lines, and deep forehead creases.

Results take time. But there is no down time. And no risk of infection.

There is a bit of temporary redness after use, but no skin irritation or swelling.

Tips for NIRA Precision Best Use

Take closeup photos of yourself, there are improvements but subtle over 90 days.
Start with a lower strength, especially on sensitive areas. Increment up as you grow accustomed to the device
Charge after every other use

Where to Find It

Find the NIRA Precision Skincare Laser & Serum Bundle at niraskin.com

The Skincare Laser Packaging

QUESTIONS? COMMENTS?

Have any comments or questions?

The Style Chicks are here to answer them.

ABOUT THIS POST

The NIRA Precision Skincare Laser was submitted to us for consideration purposes. All opinions and experiences are 100% our own.

Why Use beta Hydroxy Acids bHAs for Better Skin

October 26, 2024 · Leave a Comment

Beta Hydroxy Acids or bHAs, are less well-known than their aHA counterparts. But they are just as useful for treating several skin conditions. Beta Hydroxy Acids are excellent for reducing adult acne, enhancing gentle skin exfoliation, and correcting an uneven skin tone. Despite their prevalence in skincare formulations, many do not know how to get the most benefit from bHAs. Can bHA help your skin concerns? Discover more about how to use Beta Hydroxy Acids.

What are Beta Hydroxy Acids?

Beta-hydroxy acid (bHA) is a form of oil-soluble exfoliant which is derived from fruit, plant or milk sugars.

It is most commonly used in skincare to treat acne, fine lines and wrinkles, blackheads, dullness, and photoaging.

bHAs are often gentler than aHAs and have some extra anti-bacterial benefits.

How do Beta Hydroxy Acids Work?

As a general rule, bHAs are particularly good at clearing out a pore or deep cystic acne without excessive irritation to the surface of the skin.

BHAs are a type of exfoliant that is lipid soluble. This is useful because as they penetrate deep into the pores, they can break up and remove oily debris such as dirt, excess sebum, or dead skin cells. This makes bHAs super effective on certain types of acne. They are also highly effective on counteracting the effects of photoaging ^[1].

What are some types of beta Hydroxy Acids?

You are likely most familiar with the most commonly known bHA in skincare: salicylic acid. But there are several forms of bHAs.

Salicylic acid is most helpful to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. It is particularly effective on stubborn adult acne and cystic acne. ^[2]

Over-the-counter preparations contain two percent or less Salicylic Acid. These levels do not cause the itchy dryness and inflamed peeling that often occur with Benzoyl Peroxide or Retinol, especially when used as a spot application.

Salicylic Acid preparations as high as 30% are used by professionals as an in-office chemical peel treatment. ^[3] This should only be undertaken by a trained professional.

There are also substances related to salicylic acid or salicylic acid derivatives. These include beta-lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA), salicylate, sodium salicylate, and willow extract.

Read more about the benefits of salicylic acid in this article.

Not impressed with salicylic acid? You got options.

Other less well-known types of Beta Hydroxy Acids used in skincare formulations include:

Beta hydroxybutanoic acid

Beta hydroxybutanoic acid is derived from sugar beets.

It is like a kinder gentler version of salicylic acid.

If your skin is sensitive AND you have acne, Beta hydroxybutanoic acid is a good option.

Trethocanic acid

Trethocanic acid is an acid derived from pine bark.

It is similar to salicylic acid, but more robust.

If your acne is severe and not responding to standard remedies, trethocanic acid is the “big guns” of the bHAs.

Citric Acid

Citric acid is a fruit-based acid that helps clear dead skin cells. It is often used within formulations to enhance the penetration of active ingredients.

This especially enhances the treatment capabilities of ingredients geared towards addressing signs of photoaging.

Citric acids are generally less irritating than other comparable acids such as glycolic acid. Yet one study found that applying citric acid regularly for three months produced changes similar to those observed with retinoic acid. Notably, an increase in epidermal and dermal “glycosaminoglycans and viable epidermal thickness“.^[4]

Some of Our Favorite BHA’s

Kat Burki Power Trio Radiance Oil

Combining just three oils, this treatment features Raspberry Oil which contains Salicylic Acid. I find it pairs nicely with the other restorative and hydrating oils to keep my skin in balance when I am not experiencing active breakouts.

Neutralyze Exfoliating Pads

These mean business. It combines Salicylic and Mandelic Acids with Nitric Oxide for serious purging power. Not for the faint of heart: I had to discontinue retinoids during use, and use extra moisturizer, but it sure cleared up my stubborn blackheads fast.

Clinique Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel

Specifically suited for stubborn adult cystic acne, a thin layer of this unscented gel formula dries down clear and virtually undetectable for daytime use. After trying numerous salicylic acid gel formulas, I was amazed at how fast this gentle formula worked.

Read our full review and how to use Clinique Acne Solutions Clearing Gel

When Revivifying Ultimate Cream

Now here is a surprise appearance by BHA: in a decadent, moisturizing cream. But I find the light use of bHAs wisks away dry skin flakes to prepare the skin to best absorb the skin-loving brown algae (whuch contains polyphenols, amino acids, vitamins A, B, C, and E) plus mango seed and cocoa butters. My skin appears brighter. This cream is an amazing antioxidant that reduces wrinkles and revives skin.

What are the benefits of using Beta Hydroxy Acids?

BHAs have a range of benefits for the skin, making them a great addition to any skincare routine. Here are some of the most notable benefits:

bHA treats Scalp Issues Affecting Hair Health

Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. bHAs’s cell turnover capabilities make useful treatments for a variety of scalp conditions including dandruff, seborrhea and even psoriasis. Salicylic acid helps loosen the “glue” of dry or scaly skin. bHAs also tend to smell better than many medicinal shampoos used to treat these conditions.

BHA Prevents & Treats Acne

Salicylic acid, trethocanic acid, and Beta hydroxybutanoic acid are all highly effective at treating and preventing acne. They work by penetrating deep into the pores to dissolve excess oil and dead skin cells, which are the primary causes of acne. This also helps clear blackheads and the ever-tricky whiteheads.

BHA has more antibacterial properties than aHAs.

BHA Counteracts Dull Skin

BHAs are excellent exfoliants, clearing away dead skin cells that can harbor bacteria and help form blemishes. Even if you are not acne-prone, dead skin cells can dull a complexion. BHAs helps to prevent acne and promote a smoother, more even skin texture.

Evens out skin tone

BHAs improve skin texture and elasticity by promoting cell turnover.

BHAs can help to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyper-pigmentation. They work by exfoliating the top layer of the skin to reveal fresher, brighter skin underneath.

If your only skin issue is skin tone, aHA’s such as glycolic acid work faster at brightening the skin.

How to use Beta Hydroxy Acids in your skincare routine

If you’re looking to incorporate BHAs into your skincare routine, there are three important rules:

1. Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen

BHAs can make the skin more sensitive to the sun, it’s essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the skin from UV damage.

2. Start slowly with low doses

BHAs can be strong, so start slowly, using a BHA product only once a week to start. Use spot treatments whenever practical. Remember to keep skin well moisturized.

3. Avoid combining acids or using other exfoliants

A good HA should replace a grainy exfoliant or exfoliating with a washcloth, especially on mature skins.

Using multiple exfoliants can be too harsh for the skin, so it’s best to avoid using BHAs with other exfoliants like AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) or physical exfoliants like scrubs.

Some combinations of aHA and bHA formulations are very effective but avoid experimenting with mixing and matching on your own acid cocktails.

Summary of What You Need to Know Before Using Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)

Beta Hydroxy Acids unclog pores, exfoliate the skin, and promote a more even skin tone. Salicylic acid is one of the few ingredients capable of treating adult acne without being too drying on mature skin.

If you’re new to BHAs, start slowly and be sure use moisturizer and sunscreen to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

Was this article helpful? Then you may enjoy our Science of Skincare series exploring other ingredients such as Black Cumin Seed Oil , Watercress, and Rosehip Seed Oil.

Find more skin-friendly ingredients in the Style Chicks Defining Beauty Glossary. The Defining Beauty Glossary contains many helpful ingredients for hair and skin care.

References

Kornhauser, Andrija et al. “Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity.” Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology vol. 3 135-42. 24 Nov. 2010, doi:10.2147/CCID.S9042
Bari AU, Tolerance and safety of superficial chemical peeling with salicylic acid in various facial dermatoses. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2005 Mar-Apr;71(2):87-90.
Kessler E, Flanagan K, Chia C, Rogers C, Glaser DA. Comparison of alpha- and beta-hydroxy acid chemical peels in the treatment of mild to moderately severe facial acne vulgaris. Dermatol Surg 2008;34:45-50.
Bernstein EF, Underhill CB, Lakkakorpi J, et al. Citric acid increases viable epidermal thickness and glycosaminoglycan content of sun-damaged skin. Dermatol Surg. 1997;23(8):689–694.

Pure Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel How to Best Use

January 28, 2023 · Leave a Comment

This article is a review of Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel and explains how to best use Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is well known in folk remedy. Research shows it has a powerful biochemistry^[1] supporting many skincare and hair care uses, including collagen synthesis. But not all Aloe Vera products are free of unwanted additives. We like Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel. It is a pure Aloe Vera leaf juice free of added coloring or fragrance. It is completely unscented.

Read about the benefits of Aloe Vera and our experience with Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel.

About Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera gel comes from the inner leaves of the Aloe Vera plant.

You may use Aloe Vera gel for minor burns, bug bites, sunburn and scrapes. Aloe Vera plants were a staple in many Grandma’s kitchens as a go-to fix for multiple skin problems.

Aloe Vera is also a versatile natural ingredient with both hair and skin benefits. It can be applied alone, or added to a DIY skin or hair treatment.

Why Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel is Special

NO UNNECESSARY ADDITIVES

We like Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel 100% Pure & Natural Gel because it is a pure Aloe Vera leaf juice that is free of added coloring or fragrance.

A lack of excess additives, coloring, fragrance or fillers greatly reduces the chance of skin irritation or reactions.^[2]

Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel has no added color or fragrance. It is clear and pure

UNSCENTED

Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel has ZERO scent. It smells like nothing.

For those of us who desire unscented products, it is difficult to find a pure Aloe Vera product without scent. Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel has no added fragrance. We detect none of the natural allium/onion scent found in fresh aloe vera gel straight from the leaf.

ENRICHED WITH VITAMIN E

This Aloe Vera formulation also contains Tocopheryl Acetate, a stable form of VITAMIN E used in skincare. Vitamin E is anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant. It also softens damaged skin to make it pliable.

RESIDUE-FREE ABSORPTION

There is no sticky residue to the Aloe. It contains carbomer, a safe texturizer that enables product absorption. There is practically no dry-down time.

MADE IN THE USA

Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel is made in the USA.

It comes in a 2-ounce travel size (1, 3 or 6 pack) and a 32 ounce size bottle. We tried the travel size 3-pack.

Aloe Vera Benefits

Aloe Vera can get things done! Use it as a shaving cream, treat razor burns and bumps, and as an all around moisturizer.

Aloe Vera Benefits for Skin

Aloe Vera is a base for many clean and natural skincare products, and for good reason.

Aloe Vera feeds the skin with essential nutrients and makes skin smooth, hydrated, and soft. This skin “food” heals, hydrates, and accelerates skin cell growth.

It provides nourishment to the skin as it contains:

Vitamins A, C, B, and E, (all anti-oxidants) folic acid, and choline
minerals like collagen III-enhancing copper
8 enzymes, including Bradykinase to reduce inflammation^[3]
Amino Acids and fatty acids to hydrate the skin without oil.

Aloe Vera has an enzyme that repairs skin cells. This helps soothe and heal:

minor burns
scrapes
sunburn and excess sun exposure^[4]
razor burn
dry, flaky skin

It provides anti-inflammatory^[5] and anti-bacterial properties.

Aloe Vera contributes to collagen regeneration which is helpful in wound healing. ^[6]

Aloe Vera Benefits for Hair

Research on Aloe Vera applications within hair care includes benefits for the scalp and the hair lengths.

SCALP BENEFITS

A healthy scalp means optimal hair growth.

Aloe Vera has an enzyme that repairs dead skin cells on the scalp to help hair grow strong. This helps treat or reduce scalp conditions impacting hair growth such as:

dandruff
dry scalp
seborrheic dermatitis^[7]
psoriasis^[8]

HAIR LENGTHS

The hair length and the ends lose moisture over time. Aloe Vera feeds the hair with essential nutrients and B5 and amino acids make hair smooth, hydrated, soft, and shiny!

TIP: Aloe Vera makes a great conditioner for eyebrows! Combine Aloe with a drop of Castor or Almond Oil and brush onto eyebrows with a spoolie!

The Eden Dews Experience

We like the convenient travel size bottle size and its’ easy to use dispenser top design to keep the product fresh.

Scent: None
Color: None, clear
Consistency: It is a lightweight texture
Dry-down: non-oily, absorbs well. It is not at all tacky even during dry-down.
Residue: No chalky residue, not sticky or tacky.

RESULTS

The feel on my skin is moist and hydrated skin, not the feel of product, very natural. Notably, unlike some aloe formulations, it does not sting or burn on my sensitive skin.

I love an unscented aloe formulation because it absorbs better than fresh aloe and smells better than aloe vera gel fresh from the leaf!

Where to Shop It

Find Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BQSRDL8R

Lightweight, thin consistency is easy to spread with no stickiness

QUESTIONS? COMMENTS?

Have any questions or comments about Eden Dews Aloe Vera?

Email us or comment below and we will do our best to answer them!

References

Davis, Robert H. Aloe vera: A scientific approach. Vantage Press, 1997.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review, January 2019 pages 1-42
Atherton P. The essential Aloe vera: The actions and the evidence. 2nd ed 1997
Byeon SW, Pelley RP, Ullrich SE, Waller TA, Bucana CD, Strickland FM. Aloe barbadensis extracts reduce the production of interleukin-10 after exposure to ultraviolet radiation. J Invest Dermatol. 1998 May;110(5):811-7. doi: 10.1046/j.1523-1747.1998.00181.x.
Hutter JA, Salmon M, Stavinoha WB, Satsangi N, Williams RF, Streeper RT, et al. Anti-inflammatory C-glucosyl chromone from Aloe barbadensis. J Nat Prod. 1996;59:541–3.
Chithra P, Sajithlal GB, Chandrakasan G. Influence of Aloe vera on collagen characteristics in healing dermal wounds in rats. Mol Cell Biochem. 1998 Apr;181(1-2):71-6. doi: 10.1023/a:1006813510959. PMID: 9562243.
Vardy AD, Cohen AD, Tchetov T. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Aloe vera (A. barbadensis) emulsion in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. J Derm Treatment. 1999;10:7–11.
Syed TA, Ahmad SA, Holt AH, Ahmad SH, Afzal M. Management of psoriasis with Aloe vera extract in a hydrophilic cream: A placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Trop Med Int Health. 1996;1:505–9.

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