e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer Review: Worth Trying?

You want smoother skin without spending a fortune. You need a primer that actually works.

The e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer promises to blur pores and create a flawless canvas for your makeup. But does this affordable drugstore primer live up to the hype?

This comprehensive review will tell you everything you need to know about this viral beauty product that has taken the makeup world by storm.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable Excellence: This primer costs under $10, making it one of the most budget-friendly options on the market. You get luxury performance without the luxury price tag.
• Pore-Blurring Technology: The velvety putty formula actually works to minimize the appearance of large pores. It creates a smooth surface that helps your foundation glide on effortlessly.
• Squalane-Infused Formula: The primer contains squalane, a hydrating ingredient that helps grip your makeup for all-day wear. This means your foundation stays put without feeling heavy or uncomfortable.
• Silicone-Based Formula: The product uses a silicone base that fills in fine lines and uneven texture. This makes it ideal for creating that sought-after airbrushed finish.
• All Skin Types Welcome: Whether you have oily, dry, combination, or normal skin, this primer adapts to your needs. The formula provides hydration without greasiness and smoothing without drying.
• Cruelty-Free and Vegan: The primer meets ethical beauty standards. You can feel good about using a product that aligns with cruelty-free values.

What Is e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer

The e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer stands as one of the most popular face primers in the drugstore beauty category. This product comes in a distinctive jar format with a unique putty-like texture. The formula feels thick when you first touch it but transforms into a silky, lightweight layer on your skin.

The brand e.l.f. Cosmetics created this primer to compete with high-end alternatives. They wanted to prove that affordable beauty products can deliver professional results. The Poreless Putty Primer specifically targets people who struggle with visible pores and uneven skin texture. It works by filling in imperfections before you apply your foundation.

The product contains key ingredients like squalane for hydration and smoothing agents that blur imperfections. The formula grips your makeup to ensure long-lasting wear. Many users report that their foundation looks better and stays on longer when they use this primer first.

This primer became an internet sensation after beauty influencers compared it to luxury primers costing five times more. People loved that they could get similar results without emptying their wallets. The product quickly sold out multiple times after going viral on social media platforms.

The Science Behind the Poreless Putty Formula

The texture of this primer sets it apart from traditional liquid primers. The putty consistency comes from a carefully balanced blend of ingredients. Cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone create that signature silky feel. These silicones form a smooth barrier on your skin that fills in pores and fine lines.

The product also contains ceresin, which is a mineral wax. This ingredient helps give the primer its solid putty texture. When you warm it up with your fingers, the formula melts slightly and spreads easily across your face. The wax also helps the primer stay in place throughout the day.

Water serves as the first ingredient, which means the formula contains a significant amount of hydration. This prevents the primer from feeling too heavy or greasy on your skin. The water base allows the product to blend seamlessly with both water-based and silicone-based foundations.

Glycerin appears in the ingredient list to provide additional moisture. This humectant draws water into your skin. It keeps your face feeling comfortable even after hours of wear. The combination of silicones and humectants creates a unique formula that both fills pores and hydrates skin.

The formula excludes common irritants like parabens and phthalates. This makes the primer suitable for people with sensitive skin. The brand also keeps the product fragrance-free to minimize the risk of reactions. These thoughtful formulation choices explain why so many people with different skin types can use this primer successfully.

How to Apply e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer Correctly

Proper application makes all the difference with this primer. You need to follow specific steps to get the best results. Start with clean, moisturized skin. Let your moisturizer absorb for a few minutes before applying the primer. This prevents the products from pilling or mixing in unwanted ways.

Use clean fingers or a spatula to scoop out a small amount of product. You need less than you think. A pea-sized amount covers your entire face. The formula spreads easily, so starting with too much product can make your skin look greasy or cause your makeup to slide around.

Warm the primer between your fingers first. This step is crucial. The heat from your hands softens the putty texture and makes it easier to spread. Rub the primer between your fingertips for a few seconds until it feels smooth and slightly melted.

Apply the primer using pressing motions rather than rubbing. Pat the product onto your skin starting from the center of your face and moving outward. Focus extra attention on areas with larger pores, typically around your nose and cheeks. The pressing motion helps push the primer into your pores for better blurring effects.

Let the primer sit for 30 to 60 seconds before applying foundation. This waiting period allows the formula to set and grip your skin properly. If you apply foundation immediately, the products might mix together and reduce the effectiveness of both. Use this time to do your eye makeup or hair while the primer creates the perfect base.

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The Pore-Blurring Effect Explained

The main promise of this primer is its ability to make pores less visible. This effect comes from the way silicones interact with skin texture. Silicones fill in the tiny indentations on your skin surface, including pores and fine lines. This creates a smoother canvas that reflects light more evenly.

Your pores do not actually shrink or close. The primer creates an optical illusion that makes them appear smaller. The silky layer sits on top of your skin and provides a uniform surface. When light hits this smooth surface, it bounces off evenly instead of creating shadows in your pores.

The blurring effect works best on small to medium-sized pores. People with very large or deep pores may still see some texture, though the primer does improve the overall appearance. The product performs better when you apply it correctly and give it time to set before adding foundation.

Different lighting conditions affect how well you can see the pore-blurring results. Natural daylight shows the most accurate picture of your skin. Indoor lighting often flatters the blurred effect more. You might notice your pores look almost invisible in certain lighting but slightly visible in harsh, direct light.

The primer also helps control how makeup sits in your pores. Without primer, foundation can settle into enlarged pores and make them look more obvious. The Poreless Putty Primer prevents this problem by filling in those spaces first. Your foundation glides over the smooth surface instead of sinking into pores.

Texture and Feel on the Skin

The unique putty texture surprises most first-time users. The product feels dense and almost waxy in the jar. This thick consistency might make you worry it will feel heavy on your face. However, the formula transforms completely once you apply it.

After you warm the primer between your fingers, it becomes incredibly smooth. The texture changes from thick and solid to silky and spreadable. This transformation happens quickly because of the silicone ingredients. They respond to body heat by becoming more fluid.

On your skin, the primer feels almost like nothing. It creates a velvety finish that is neither sticky nor greasy. Your face feels smooth to the touch, like you have applied a very thin layer of silk. This comfortable feeling lasts throughout the day without becoming uncomfortable or heavy.

The primer dries down to a semi-matte finish. Your skin does not look shiny or oily after application. However, it also does not look completely flat or matte. The finish sits somewhere in between, providing a natural appearance that works well under most foundations.

Some people notice a slightly tacky feeling after the primer sets. This tackiness is intentional. It helps grip your foundation and keep it in place. The stickiness is mild and disappears once you apply makeup over it. This gripping quality is what makes your makeup last longer.

Performance with Different Foundation Types

This primer works with various foundation formulas, though some pairings perform better than others. Understanding these combinations helps you get the best results. Silicone-based foundations pair perfectly with this silicone-based primer. The similar formulas blend seamlessly and extend wear time.

When you use silicone foundations over this primer, your makeup glides on effortlessly. Products like liquid foundations with dimethicone high on the ingredient list work beautifully. The primer and foundation create a cohesive layer that resists separation and fading.

Water-based foundations can also work, but they require more careful application. You need to make sure the primer has completely set before applying a water-based foundation. Some water-based formulas may bead up or separate slightly if you apply them too quickly. Patience is key with these combinations.

Powder foundations perform excellently over this primer. The smooth, slightly tacky base helps powder adhere evenly without looking cakey. The primer prevents powder from settling into fine lines or emphasizing dry patches. This makes it a great option for people who prefer powder foundations.

Cushion foundations and BB creams work well with the Poreless Putty Primer too. These hybrid products appreciate the smooth canvas the primer creates. The primer helps these lighter coverage options look more polished and last longer than they would on bare skin.

Thick, full-coverage foundations might feel slightly heavy over this primer. The combination of a silicone primer and a heavy foundation can create too much slip. Your makeup might slide around during application. If you use full-coverage foundation, apply it with pressing motions rather than sweeping to help it set properly.

Longevity and All-Day Wear Performance

How long your makeup lasts is often the true test of a primer. The e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer performs well in this category. Most users report 8 to 10 hours of solid wear. Your makeup stays in place without significant fading or separation during a typical workday.

The primer helps control oil production on the skin surface. This oil control is not as strong as mattifying primers, but it provides noticeable benefits. People with oily skin may need blotting papers by mid-afternoon, but their foundation remains intact underneath. The primer prevents oil from breaking down the makeup completely.

In hot or humid conditions, the primer performs admirably. The formula resists melting or sliding even when you sweat. Outdoor events and summer weather do not cause immediate makeup breakdown when you use this primer. However, extreme heat or heavy sweating will eventually affect any makeup, including this primer.

The primer helps foundation resist transfer to clothes, phones, and masks. This transfer resistance has become increasingly important. The formula creates enough grip to keep makeup on your face instead of rubbing off onto everything you touch. Some transfer may occur with very oily skin or in extreme conditions.

By the end of a long day, your makeup will show some wear. The primer cannot perform miracles beyond its reasonable limits. You may notice slight fading in areas of movement like around the mouth and nose. However, the overall appearance remains much better than wearing foundation without any primer.

Hydration Benefits for Different Skin Types

The squalane in this primer provides genuine hydration benefits. Squalane is a plant-based oil that mimics the natural oils in human skin. This ingredient absorbs quickly and provides moisture without clogging pores. It helps keep skin comfortable under makeup.

Dry skin types benefit significantly from this hydrating formula. The primer prevents foundation from clinging to dry patches or emphasizing flaky areas. It creates a smooth, moisturized base that helps makeup look fresh instead of cakey. People with dry skin often report that their foundation looks better and more natural with this primer.

Combination skin finds a good balance with this product. The primer hydrates dry areas without making oily zones greasy. It provides enough moisture for cheeks and dry patches while still controlling shine in the T-zone. This versatility makes it suitable for the majority of people who have some variation in their skin type.

Oily skin users have mixed experiences with the hydrating formula. Some appreciate that the primer does not strip their skin or cause overproduction of oil. Others prefer a more mattifying primer that aggressively controls shine. If you have very oily skin, you might want to try this primer on less humid days first.

Sensitive skin typically tolerates this primer well. The gentle, fragrance-free formula rarely causes reactions. The hydrating ingredients help soothe skin rather than irritate it. People who react to many beauty products often find this primer safe to use.

The hydration does not create a greasy or slippery surface. The silicones in the formula help balance the moisturizing effects. You get the benefits of hydration without the downsides of an overly emollient product. This balance makes the primer suitable for more skin types.

Ingredient Safety and Skin Health

Looking at the ingredient list helps you understand what you are putting on your skin. The e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer contains mostly safe, well-tested ingredients. Silicones dominate the formula, which some people prefer to avoid while others appreciate for their smoothing properties.

Cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone are both considered safe by regulatory agencies. These ingredients have decades of research supporting their use in cosmetics. They do not penetrate deeply into skin but stay on the surface where they provide smoothing benefits. Some people avoid silicones for personal preference or environmental concerns.

The formula includes tea tree leaf extract, which offers antibacterial properties. This ingredient can help prevent breakouts caused by wearing makeup. Tea tree is generally gentle at the concentration used in this primer. It adds a beneficial element without causing irritation for most users.

Vitamin A and Vitamin E appear in the ingredient list as tocopheryl acetate and retinyl palmitate. These vitamins provide antioxidant benefits. They help protect skin from environmental stressors while you wear the primer. The amounts are small but contribute to overall skin health.

The product is non-comedogenic, meaning it should not clog pores. This claim is important for a primer because you wear it under other makeup products. A pore-clogging primer would defeat its own purpose. Most users report no increase in breakouts or blackheads from regular use.

The primer excludes parabens, phthalates, and nonylphenol ethoxylates. These exclusions follow current clean beauty trends. While the science on these ingredients is debated, many consumers prefer products without them. The brand responds to customer preferences with these formulation choices.

Value for Money Comparison

At under $10, this primer offers exceptional value. Comparing it to luxury alternatives highlights just how budget-friendly it is. The Tatcha Silk Canvas Primer costs around $52 for a similar size. The ingredients and performance share many similarities despite the huge price difference.

When you calculate the cost per use, the value becomes even more impressive. A little goes a long way with this primer. One jar typically lasts three to six months with daily use. This makes the effective cost per application just pennies.

The packaging size provides generous product. You get 0.74 ounces (21 grams) of primer in the standard jar. This amount compares favorably to many mid-range primers that offer less product for more money. The size makes it practical for everyday use without worrying about running out quickly.

Drugstore competitors price similarly but may not perform as well. The e.l.f. primer consistently ranks at the top of affordable options in terms of results. It punches above its weight class, delivering performance that rivals products costing three to five times more.

The primer also reduces the need for other products. Because it smooths skin and helps makeup last, you might use less foundation and need fewer touch-ups. This indirect savings adds to the overall value. Your other makeup products last longer and perform better with this primer as a base.

For budget-conscious beauty lovers, this primer represents one of the best returns on investment in makeup. It proves that effective primers do not require luxury prices. The formula delivers real, visible results that justify purchasing it over and over again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people do not get optimal results because they make simple application errors. Using too much product ranks as the most common mistake. The thick texture makes people think they need more than they actually do. Start with a tiny amount and add more only if necessary.

Applying primer to unprepared skin causes problems. You must cleanse and moisturize before using this primer. Applying it to dirty skin or immediately after moisturizer creates issues. The primer cannot work properly without the right base. Wait a few minutes after moisturizer before applying primer.

Rubbing the primer into skin rather than patting it on reduces effectiveness. Rubbing spreads the product too thin and does not push it into pores. Use pressing and patting motions instead. This technique helps the primer fill in texture and create a smooth surface.

Not waiting before applying foundation is another frequent error. The primer needs time to set. If you rush and apply foundation immediately, the products mix together. This mixing reduces the benefits of both products. Wait at least 30 seconds, preferably a full minute.

Using expired or contaminated primer can cause skin issues. Dipping dirty fingers into the jar introduces bacteria. Use a clean spatula or wash your hands before each application. The primer lasts about 12 months after opening. Using very old product may reduce performance and increase breakout risk.

Best Makeup Products to Pair With This Primer

Certain products work especially well over the Poreless Putty Primer. e.l.f.’s own Flawless Finish Foundation pairs beautifully with this primer. Both formulas come from the same brand and work together seamlessly. The foundation glides on smoothly and lasts all day.

L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation is another excellent pairing. This drugstore foundation has a silicone base that matches the primer perfectly. Together they create a long-lasting, smooth finish that controls oil well. This combination works especially well for people who want an affordable full routine.

Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation complements the primer nicely. The foundation helps extend the pore-blurring effects. Both products work together to minimize the appearance of pores and control shine. This pairing suits people with normal to oily skin particularly well.

For powder lovers, Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder works wonderfully over this primer. The smooth primer base helps powder apply evenly without looking cakey. The combination provides excellent oil control and a natural-looking finish.

MAC Studio Fix Fluid represents a higher-end option that pairs well with this budget primer. This proves you can mix price points successfully. The silicone-rich MAC foundation appreciates the smooth canvas the e.l.f. primer creates.

Real User Experiences and Testimonials

Reading about other people’s experiences helps set realistic expectations. Thousands of reviews on Amazon give this primer an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. This consistent rating across many reviews indicates reliable performance.

Many users with large pores report visible improvement. One reviewer mentioned that the primer makes pores on the nose and cheeks significantly less noticeable. People appreciate that the effect is genuine rather than just marketing hype.

Some users note that the primer works better in cooler weather. Summer humidity can reduce effectiveness slightly for very oily skin types. However, most people find the performance acceptable year-round. The primer handles normal daily conditions well.

Several reviews mention how affordable this primer is compared to results it delivers. People who switched from expensive primers often say they notice little to no difference in performance. This confirmation from real users validates the value proposition.

A few negative reviews mention breakouts or skin reactions. These experiences appear relatively rare. Most sensitive skin users report no problems with irritation or clogging. Individual skin chemistry affects results, so patch testing remains smart.

Beauty influencers have created hundreds of videos about this primer. YouTube reviews generally show positive results. Seeing the primer work on different skin types and tones in video format helps potential buyers make informed decisions.

The e.l.f. Brand Philosophy and Ethics

Understanding the brand behind the product adds context. e.l.f. Cosmetics stands for Eyes Lips Face. The company built its reputation on providing quality makeup at accessible prices. They believe beauty should not require spending a fortune.

The brand maintains cruelty-free certification. They do not test on animals at any stage of production. This commitment matters to many consumers who want ethical beauty choices. The certification comes from recognized organizations that verify these claims.

All e.l.f. products are vegan. The Poreless Putty Primer contains no animal-derived ingredients. This makes it suitable for people following plant-based lifestyles. The vegan formulation does not compromise on performance or quality.

The company focuses on clean beauty principles without being extreme. They remove controversial ingredients while keeping proven effective ones. This balanced approach creates products that work well and meet modern safety preferences.

e.l.f. also emphasizes sustainable practices in packaging and production. While not perfect, they make efforts to reduce environmental impact. The brand continues to improve sustainability as they grow.

Storage and Shelf Life Tips

Proper storage extends the life of your primer. Keep the jar closed tightly when not in use. This prevents the formula from drying out or becoming contaminated. The thick putty texture can change if exposed to air for long periods.

Store the primer at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Extreme heat or cold can affect the consistency. Bathrooms work fine as long as they do not get extremely hot or humid. A makeup drawer or cabinet provides ideal storage conditions.

Check the period-after-opening symbol on the jar. This symbol shows how many months the product remains good after you first open it. For this primer, that period is typically 12 months. Write the opening date on the jar to track freshness.

Signs of expired primer include changes in smell, texture, or color. If the primer develops an off odor, becomes very hard or liquid, or changes color, replace it. Using expired product can cause skin irritation or reduced performance.

Clean the rim of the jar regularly. Product buildup around the edges can contaminate the rest of the formula. Wipe it clean with a tissue or cotton pad. This simple step helps maintain product hygiene.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your foundation pills or balls up over this primer, you have a formula incompatibility. Switch to a silicone-based foundation for better results. Alternatively, wait longer between primer and foundation application. Sometimes pilling happens when the primer has not fully set.

Excessive shine by midday means your skin needs more oil control than this primer provides. Try setting your makeup with powder or using blotting papers. You might also consider the e.l.f. Matte Putty Primer, which offers more oil control for very oily skin.

If you experience makeup sliding around, you may be using too much primer. Reduce the amount you apply. Also ensure you are pressing the primer into your skin rather than just spreading it on the surface. The primer needs to grip your skin to hold makeup properly.

Breakouts after starting this primer could indicate sensitivity to an ingredient. Stop using it for a week to see if your skin clears. If breakouts resume when you restart, this primer may not suit your skin. Try a different formula or consult a dermatologist.

When the primer feels too thick or hard to spread, you need to warm it more. Spend extra time rubbing it between your fingers. You can also use a damp beauty sponge to help spread it if finger application feels difficult.

Professional Makeup Artist Opinions

Professional makeup artists often test products extensively. Many pros have shared opinions about the e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer. Most agree it performs well for its price point. They recognize it as a legitimate option for budget-conscious clients.

Some makeup artists keep this primer in their kits as an affordable alternative for practice or casual shoots. While they may prefer luxury primers for high-end work, they acknowledge this product does the job for everyday needs. The professional approval adds credibility.

Artists working with normal to dry skin types particularly recommend this primer. They note it provides good hydration without interfering with foundation application. The smooth finish makes their makeup application easier and faster.

Professionals caution that very oily skin or extremely hot conditions may require more specialized primers. This primer works for most situations but has reasonable limits. Makeup artists emphasize matching the primer to the specific needs of each person and event.

The consensus among pros is that this primer represents excellent value for money. They respect that e.l.f. created a product that delivers real results at a fraction of luxury prices. This professional validation reassures everyday consumers.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth Your Money

After examining every aspect of the e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer, the answer is clear. Yes, this primer is absolutely worth buying. It delivers on its promises to blur pores and extend makeup wear. The affordable price makes it accessible to everyone.

The primer works well for most skin types, though very oily skin might prefer a mattifying version. The formula provides hydration, smoothing, and makeup gripping properties. These benefits make it a complete primer that handles multiple needs at once.

You get exceptional value considering the price. Few primers at any price point perform significantly better. The formula rivals products costing five times more. This makes it one of the best values in all of beauty, not just primers.

The ethical aspects add appeal for conscious consumers. Cruelty-free and vegan status matters to many people. Getting effective performance while maintaining ethical standards represents a win-win situation.

Minor limitations exist, like potential shininess on very oily skin. However, these small drawbacks do not outweigh the many benefits. For the vast majority of people, this primer will improve how their makeup looks and lasts.

If you have never tried a primer or want to upgrade from your current one without spending much, buy this product. The low price means minimal risk. The high probability of success makes it a smart purchase. This primer earns its reputation as one of the best drugstore beauty products available.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer water-based or silicone-based?

The e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer is silicone-based despite having water as the first ingredient. The significant amount of cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone makes it functionally a silicone primer. This means it works best with silicone-based foundations. The formula creates that characteristic smooth, velvety feel that silicone primers are known for. If you prefer to match your primer and foundation bases, pair this with other silicone-based products for optimal results.

Can I use this primer if I have sensitive skin?

Most people with sensitive skin can use this primer successfully. The formula is fragrance-free and excludes many common irritants. It contains gentle ingredients that rarely cause reactions. However, everyone’s skin is different. Do a patch test before using it all over your face. Apply a small amount to your inner wrist or behind your ear. Wait 24 hours to see if any redness or irritation develops. If your skin reacts to silicones specifically, you should avoid this product since silicones are major ingredients.

How long does one jar of e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer last?

A single jar typically lasts between three to six months with daily use. The exact duration depends on how much you apply each time. Since you only need a pea-sized amount per application, the product goes a long way. If you use it every day, expect it to last about four months on average. Occasional users might stretch it to eight months or longer. The generous 0.74-ounce size provides excellent value compared to many primers that offer less product.

Does this primer work under sunscreen or should I apply sunscreen first?

Always apply sunscreen before primer. Sunscreen needs to sit directly on your skin to provide proper protection. Let your sunscreen absorb for a few minutes after application. Then apply your moisturizer if you use one. Wait another minute or two before applying the primer. This layering order ensures your sunscreen can do its job while still getting the benefits of the primer. Applying primer first would create a barrier that reduces sunscreen effectiveness.

Can I wear e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer without foundation?

Yes, you can wear this primer alone without foundation. The primer creates a smooth, slightly blurred appearance even without makeup on top. Your skin will look more refined and pores will appear smaller. The formula provides light coverage and evening of skin tone. This works well for no-makeup days when you want your skin to look polished but natural. Some people prefer using just this primer for casual weekends or running errands.

Will this primer clog my pores or cause breakouts?

The primer is formulated to be non-comedogenic, meaning it should not clog pores. Most users do not experience breakouts from this product. The tea tree extract in the formula actually helps prevent bacteria that cause acne. However, individual reactions vary based on personal skin chemistry. If you are very acne-prone, monitor your skin when you start using any new product. Make sure to remove the primer thoroughly at the end of each day with proper cleansing.

How do I remove this primer at night?

Use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water first to break down the silicones. Since this is a silicone-based primer, regular face wash alone might not remove it completely. Double cleansing works best. Start with an oil cleanser or cleansing balm to dissolve the primer and makeup. Follow with your regular face wash to clean your skin thoroughly. This two-step process ensures you remove all traces of primer and prevents buildup that could lead to clogged pores.

Does this primer have any scent or fragrance?

The e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer is fragrance-free. It has no added scent, which makes it suitable for people sensitive to fragrances. Some users detect a very mild, slightly chemical smell from the base ingredients. This natural product scent is barely noticeable and disappears quickly after application. The lack of added fragrance reduces the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. Most people cannot smell anything at all when using this primer.

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