Embark on a journey to clearer skin with Japan's top face masks for acne, where innovation meets tradition in skincare. These masks combine powerful blemish-fighting ingredients with gentle formulations to soothe, heal, and prevent acne without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.
Dive into a curated selection of Japanese face masks that offer a targeted approach to achieving a balanced and radiant complexion.
Which is the best Japanese face mask for acne?
After testing 10+ Japanese face masks for acne, our in-house team at BestJapaneseProducts.com voted IPSA Luminizing Clay Mask as the best Japanese face mask for acne. And Here’s why:
Formulated with minerals from seabed sediments, the IPSA Luminizing Clay Mask helps unclogs pores by removing trapped oil, impurities, and any other dirt clogging the pores. It absorbs excess oils in the skin and prevents further acne breakouts. It contains bentonite that removes dead skin cells and promotes circulation - this ultimately helps improve the skin skin complexion.
Japanese Face Mask For Acne: Quick Glance
Best Japanese Face Masks for Acne: A Comparison Table
| Best Japanese Face Mask For Acne | Benefits for Acne | Skin Type |
|---|---|---|
| Luminizing Clay Mask | Exfoliates, absorbs oil, reduces blackheads | Oily, combination |
| Amino Moist Face Mask | Hydrates, soothes irritation, reduces inflammation | Sensitive, dry, acne-prone |
| Pink Face Mask | Moisturizes, calms redness, reduces breakouts | Sensitive, irritated, acne-prone |
| Clear Turn Essence Hyaluronic Acid Facial Mask | Hydrates, brightens, reduces acne scars | Dry, acne-prone |
| Moisture Penetration Mask | Deeply hydrates, plumps skin, reduces roughness | Dry, dehydrated, acne-prone |
| CC Intensive Care Mask | Brightens skin tone, reduces redness, hydrates | Oily, combination, acne-prone |
| Koi-Gokujyun 3D Perfect Mask | Intensely hydrates, plumps skin, improves texture | Dry, dehydrated, acne-prone |
| Clear Turn Pore Black Face Mask | Absorbs oil, minimizes pores, removes blackheads | Oily, combination, acne-prone |
| All in One Sheet Mask White | Hydrates, brightens, evens skin tone | All skin types, including acne-prone |
- Related: Japanese Moisturiser for acne prone skin
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- Related: Japanese toners for acne prone skin
IPSA Luminizing Clay Mask
Voted as the Best Japanese Clay Mask for acne prone skin
The IPSA Luminizing clay mask is rated as the best clay mask in Japan. What I absolutely love about this mask is that it pulls out all the dirt that’s stuck deep in the pores. It also does an amazing job at removing blackheads and shrinking pores!
Even though this Japanese clay mask manages to pull out black heads and impurities, it still leaves the face feeling soft and moisturized. The texture of this clay mask is like soft clay but with beads. The beads don’t cause any tear on the skin but are pretty gentle on the skin.
Key Features:
- Formulated with minerals of seabed sediment
- Contains bentonite to treat acne breakouts and reduce sebum
- Absorbs excess oil and removes impurities within the pores
- Removes blackheads
- Reduces acne
- Improves skin complexion by removing dead skin cells
- Moisturises and hydrates the skin
Minon Amino Moist Face Mask
This is one of the most popular face masks in Japan that contains nine types of amino acids that are great for the skin. It has intense moisturization and hydrating properties that will change the way your skin looks and feels.
The amino acids that are a part of this face mask are the basic building blocks of protein. The face mask also contains the magical hyaluronic acid that locks in moisture and keeps your skin soft and subtle.
Key Features:
- Face mask with nine types of amino acids
- Contains hyaluronic acid
- Provides intense moisturization and hydration
- Clears skin irritation and redness
- Helps eradicate breakouts and inflammation
- Applying for 20 minutes can show a visible difference
Check out this best Japanese mask for acne below!
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Lululun Pink Face Mask
Lululun is one of the most popular and best-selling skincare brands in Japan. The pink face mask is intensely hydrating. It moisturizes the skin and also restores the skin’s balance.
The face mask contains a special ingredient called rice ceramide that helps the goodness of the mask penetrate deep into the skin to give you the best results.
Key Features:
- One of the most popular brands in Japan
- Intensely hydrating mask
- Moisturizes the skin and restores the skin’s balance
- Contains rice ceramide that helps the goodness penetrate deep within
- Contains hyaluronic acid and acacia honey that help replenish the moisture levels
- Helps you get soft and plump skin
Related: Check out the best-selling products of the Japanese skincare giant Shiseido!
Kose Clear Turn Essence Hyaluronic Acid Facial Mask
This is another of my favorite Japanese face masks that give you quick results. This intensely hydrating face mask replenishes moisture in your skin, making it look hydrated. It also adds a youthful glow to your skin.
Key Features:
- Intensely hydrating face mask
- Replenishes moisture levels
- Adds a youthful glow to your skin
- Contains deep ocean water
- Keeps your skin soft and moisturized
- Three-layered face mask sheets
- Holds more liquid
- Fits the curves of your face perfectly
Check out this best Japanese mask for acne below!
Related: Protect yourself from the harmful sun rays with these sunscreens from top J-beauty brands!
Hadabisei Moisture Penetration Mask
This fragrance and dye-free face mask is the ultimate solution for you to keep acne at bay. The masks in this pack are on the dry side, unlike other sheet masks that you get.
These are not drenched in essence, however, that should not make you think that this mask does not work.
The anti-inflammatory ingredients, Vitamin C, and Green Tea extracts work together marvelously on your skin to help get rid of acne. It also reduces acne scarring and any spots that are on your face.
Key Features:
- Fragrance and dye-free mask
- Dryer than other sheet masks; do not come drenched in essence
- Contains anti-inflammatory ingredients, Vitamin C, and Green Tea extracts
- Reduces acne and slowly gets rid of it
- Reduces acne scarring and spots
Related: Get rid of dark circles with these nourishing eye creams from Japan. Check it out!
Melano CC Intensive Care Mask
Vitamin C truly is a magical ingredient for the skin. It is this goodness that you get in the Melano CC Intensive Care Mask. It has been formulated especially with the goodness of Vitamin C.
The mask helps the ingredients penetrate deep within and work wonders on your skin. Vitamin C goes right inside the cells to fade any dark spot of acne scars that you may be dealing with.
And as this magical ingredient is known for its brightening properties, it also helps even out your skin’s complexion and brightens it. This face mask also reduces signs of pigmentation by controlling the production of melanin in the skin.
Key Features:
- Contains Vitamin C
- Penetrates deep within the cells
- Fades dark spots and acne scars
- Helps brighten your complexion
- Reduces pigmentation by controlling the production of melanin
Related: Deep cleanse your face with these gentle cleansing oils from top Japanese skincare brands!
Hada Labo Koi-Gokujyun 3D Perfect Mask
This is quite a concentrated face mask that comes with magical ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, collagen, ceramide, and squalane. This awesome face mask adds intense hydration and moisturization. And not only that! This face mask is also known to have regenerative powers that help repair the skin barrier and replenish hydration.
Key Features:
- Concentrated face mask
- Contains hyaluronic acid, collagen, ceramide, and squalane
- Adds intense moisturization and hydration
- Helps with acne breakouts
- Repairs and rejuvenates skin barrier
- Works as a toner, lotion, serum, night cream, sheet mask, and eye mask
- Works as a one-stop skincare regime
- Comes in a pack of 30 well-soaked sheets
Check out this best Japanese mask for acne below!
Kose Cosmeport Clear Turn Pore Black Face Mask
Are you looking for a product that works in multiple ways in your skin? This is the one for you. It clears out your skin, gives you a brighter complexion, and helps reduce pores.
This is one of the best face masks for people dealing with acne. The formulation of the mask is quite unique.
It contains soy milk and an oriental herbal blend that works towards improving the texture of your skin. Simply apply this mask and walk your way to beautiful skin.
Key Features:
- Product that works in multiple ways
- Clears out your skin, gives you a brighter complexion, and helps reduce pores
- Contains soy milk and an oriental herbal blend
- Improves skin texture
Check out this best Japanese mask for acne below!
Quality 1st All In One Sheet Mask White
These are one of the most popular sheet masks in Japan. These are probably one of the best sheet masks out there that pamper your skin in the most simple way. These masks have the super ability to stay stuck to your face.
It also does not have any fragrance, so if you are allergic to fragrances, this may be your new holy grail.
The formulation of this Japanese sheet face contains three whitening essence - Vitamin C, Nano white and placenta extract. These ingredients help towards improving your skin complexion by reducing dark spots and skin pigmentation.
This Japanese whitening face mask reduced uneven skin tone giving you a more even skin tone through out.
In fact, this Japanese face mask for acne was also voted as the best Japanese face mask for skin whitening.
You can wear this mask and forget about it. Unlike other masks, you do not have to sit in one position fearing that your mask will fall off; with these, continue with all your chores and forget that you have a mask on.
These comfortable masks are also effortless since they dry quickly. You can use them on a regular basis. Also, for the inexpensive price that these masks come in, it works wonders for your skin.
Key Features:
- Stays stuck on your face
- Does not contain any fragrance
- Best Japanese face mask for skin whitening
- Lets you do your chores with the mask on
- Has a quick drying time
- Inexpensive
Fancl Moisturizing Mask
The Fancl Moisturizing Mask is a game-changer for anyone seeking deep hydration and skin revitalization.
From the moment I applied this mask, I could feel its remarkable effects on my skin. The combination of potent hydrating ingredients worked wonders, replenishing my skin's moisture levels and leaving it incredibly soft, supple, and refreshed.
I was impressed by how this mask provided intense nourishment, transforming my skin's texture and restoring its natural radiance.
What sets the Fancl Moisturizing Mask apart is its soothing and calming properties. The gentle formula, enriched with botanical extracts, helped to alleviate redness, irritation, and sensitivity.
After each use, I noticed a visible reduction in any signs of irritation, and my skin felt noticeably soothed and comforted.
Pros:
- Deeply moisturizes the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and refreshed.
- Provides intense nourishment, improving the overall texture and radiance of the skin.
- Calms and soothes redness, irritation, and sensitivity.
- Convenient and mess-free application with the sheet mask form.
- Suitable for those with sensitive skin, as it is gentle and non-irritating.
Cons:
- Availability may be limited, making it challenging to purchase in certain regions.
- Individual results may vary depending on skin type and concerns.
- Some users may find the price point slightly higher compared to other masks.
- The sheet may not adhere perfectly to all face shapes, leading to minor adjustments during use.
- The mask's fragrance-free formula may not appeal to those who prefer scented skincare products.
My Beauty Diary Aloe Vera Soothing Facial Mask
The My Beauty Diary Aloe Vera Soothing Facial Mask is a refreshing and nourishing skincare product that exceeded my expectations.
This mask harnesses the power of aloe vera to deliver rejuvenating and soothing benefits. The aloe vera extract deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin, leaving it refreshed, revitalized, and moisturized. Its cooling properties help calm any redness or irritation, promoting a healthy and radiant complexion.
What sets this facial mask apart is its ability to provide intense hydration and lock in moisture. The essence in the mask is absorbed deeply into the skin, delivering a surge of moisture and restoring the skin's natural hydration balance.
Pros:
- Rejuvenates and refreshes the skin, leaving it revitalized and moisturized.
- Intensely hydrates the skin, improving overall suppleness and appearance.
- Soothes and calms redness and irritation, promoting a healthier complexion.
- Convenient and mess-free application with the sheet mask form.
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Cons:
- Scented formula may not be preferred by those who prefer unscented skincare products.
- Individual results may vary depending on skin type and concerns.
- The sheet mask may not adhere perfectly to all face shapes, requiring minor adjustments during use.
- Limited availability may make it challenging to purchase in some regions.
- Some users may find the price point slightly higher compared to other masks.
Shiseido Benefiance Pure Retinol Intensive Revitalizing Face Mask
The Shiseido Benefiance Pure Retinol Intensive Revitalizing Face Mask is a luxurious anti-aging treatment that truly delivers impressive results.
As someone concerned about the signs of aging, I was eager to try this renowned product from Shiseido. I must say, it lived up to its reputation and exceeded my expectations.
The star ingredient of this face mask is pure retinol, known for its powerful anti-aging properties. The mask is saturated with a potent formula that works to visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture.
From the moment I applied the mask, I could feel its revitalizing effect on my skin.
One of the standout features of the Shiseido Benefiance Pure Retinol Intensive Revitalizing Face Mask is its exceptional hydration.
The mask's essence deeply penetrates the skin, leaving it plump, hydrated, and incredibly smooth. I noticed an immediate improvement in the overall texture and radiance of my complexion.
Pros:
- Visible reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture.
- Deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin, leaving it plump and smooth.
- Convenient and easy-to-use pre-cut sheets for a comfortable application.
- Imparts a youthful and revitalized glow to the complexion.
- High-quality formula from a reputable brand known for skincare excellence.
Cons:
- Retinol may cause sensitivity, especially for those with sensitive skin.
- It is advisable to start with shorter application times to avoid potential irritation.
- Higher price point compared to some other face masks on the market.
- The results may vary depending on individual skin type and concerns.
Hirosophy Sakura Komekoji Cherry Blossom Sake Mask
Hirosophy Sakura Komekoji Cherry Blossom Sake Mask. This mask is designed to enhance your skin's natural beauty while providing a luxurious and rejuvenating experience.
The Hirosophy Sakura Komekoji Cherry Blossom Sake Mask arrives in an exquisite packaging that captures the essence of Japanese elegance.
The sleek design and attention to detail reflect the high-quality product inside. Opening the package reveals individual sheets that are delicately folded, ready to unveil their beauty-enhancing properties.
This facial mask boasts a unique blend of traditional Japanese ingredients and advanced skincare technology.
The key ingredient, cherry blossom sake, is renowned for its brightening and moisturizing properties.
Combined with other skin-loving components, such as rice bran extract and hyaluronic acid, this mask offers a powerful formula that nourishes, hydrates, and revitalizes the skin.
Upon application, the Hirosophy Sakura Komekoji Cherry Blossom Sake Mask feels lightweight and comfortable on the skin.
Pros:
- Radiant Skin: Brightens and revitalizes the complexion.
- Deep Hydration: Intensely moisturizes and plumps the skin.
- Even Skin Tone: Helps reduce dullness and discoloration.
- Versatile and Convenient: Easy application and fits into various skincare routines.
Cons:
- Limited Availability: May be challenging to find in local stores.
- Price: Falls into a higher price range compared to some other masks.
HadaLabo Rohto Goku-Jun Hyaluronic Facial Mask
If you're seeking a skincare solution that deeply hydrates and nourishes your skin, the HadaLabo Rohto Goku-Jun Hyaluronic Facial Mask is a must-try.
With its rich concentration of hyaluronic acid and exceptional moisture-retaining abilities, this mask promises to leave your skin plump, supple, and rejuvenated.
The standout feature of the HadaLabo Rohto Goku-Jun Hyaluronic Facial Mask is its ability to deliver intense hydration.
Packed with multiple types of hyaluronic acid, it replenishes moisture levels, ensuring long-lasting hydration for your skin. This deeply moisturizing effect helps to restore and maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Pros:
- Intense Hydration: Delivers deep hydration for plump and supple skin.
- Visible Results: Noticeable improvement in the skin's moisture levels and overall complexion.
- Gentle and Nourishing: Suitable for sensitive skin without causing irritation.
- Affordable Option: Offers cost-effective hydration with a high-quality formulation.
- Wide Availability: Easily accessible and widely stocked in various retail outlets.
Cons:
- Single-Use Product: Designed for one-time use, which may not be environmentally friendly.
- Individual Sensitivity: Patch test recommended for those with specific skin sensitivities.
- Fragrance: Some individuals may prefer fragrance-free options.
- Sheet Fit: May not perfectly conform to all face shapes, leading to potential minor adjustments during application.
Premium Puresa Golden Jelly Face Mask Hyaluronic Acid
The Premium Puresa Golden Jelly Face Mask with Hyaluronic Acid is a luxurious skincare treat that promises to nourish, hydrate, and revitalize your skin.
Infused with high-quality ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, this mask aims to provide a radiant complexion and a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home.
The Premium Puresa Golden Jelly Face Mask stands out with its opulent golden packaging, reflecting the indulgence within.
The mask itself is generously soaked in a rich, jelly-like essence that contains hyaluronic acid, renowned for its hydrating and plumping properties. This powerful combination aims to restore moisture, improve elasticity, and promote a healthy, youthful glow.
Pros:
- Intense Hydration: Delivers deep moisture and plumps the skin for a supple appearance.
- Restores Radiance: Revitalizes dull skin, promoting a radiant and glowing complexion.
- Nourishing Formulation: Helps replenish the skin's natural barrier and improve elasticity.
- Convenient Packaging: Individually packaged masks ensure freshness and easy application.
- Luxurious Self-Care: Offers a spa-like experience and indulgence at home.
Cons:
- Individual Sensitivity: Patch test recommended for those with specific skin sensitivities.
- Fragrance: Some individuals may prefer fragrance-free options.
- Single-Use Product: Designed for one-time use, which may not be environmentally friendly.
- Limited Availability: May be challenging to find in local stores or restricted to certain regions.
- Price: Falls into a higher price range compared to some other sheet masks.
Clear Turn White Vitamin C Face Mask
The Clear Turn White Vitamin C Face Mask is a skincare essential for those seeking a radiant and revitalized complexion.
Enriched with vitamin C, this mask aims to brighten the skin, even out the skin tone, and restore a youthful glow. Experience the transformative effects of this vitamin C-infused mask and elevate your skincare routine to new heights.
The standout feature of the Clear Turn White Vitamin C Face Mask is its high concentration of vitamin C.
Known for its brightening and antioxidant properties, vitamin C helps to diminish dark spots, even out skin tone, and promote a luminous complexion.
This mask delivers a potent dose of vitamin C directly to the skin, allowing for maximum effectiveness.
With consistent use, the Clear Turn White Vitamin C Face Mask can help transform dull and lackluster skin.
Pros:
- Intensive brightening effects for a more radiant complexion
- Fades dark spots and reduces hyperpigmentation
- Promotes even skin tone and youthful appearance
- Provides essential hydration and moisture to the skin
- User-friendly and hassle-free application
Cons:
- Individual sensitivity may vary; patch test recommended
- Single-use product, may not be environmentally friendly
- Fragrance present, which may not be preferred by some individuals
- Availability may be limited in certain regions
- Results may vary depending on individual skin condition and usage frequency
Saborino Morning Mask Botanical
The Saborino Morning Mask Botanical is a time-saving and invigorating addition to your morning skincare routine.
Designed to provide a quick and refreshing boost, this mask promises to awaken and nourish your skin, leaving it ready to face the day ahead.
Experience the revitalizing benefits of the Saborino Morning Mask Botanical and enjoy a convenient skincare solution.
One of the standout features of the Saborino Morning Mask Botanical is its efficiency. The mask is specifically designed to save time in the morning by combining cleansing, toning, and moisturizing steps into one convenient product.
Pros:
- Streamlines morning routine with multiple skincare steps in one product.
- Refreshes and wakes up the skin, combating morning fatigue.
- Nourishes and rejuvenates with beneficial botanical extracts.
- Provides long-lasting hydration for a smooth and plump complexion.
- Compact and portable packaging for on-the-go convenience.
Cons:
- Individual sensitivity may vary; patch test recommended.
- Single-use product, may not be environmentally friendly.
- Fragrance present, which may not be preferred by some individuals.
- Availability may be limited in certain regions.
- Results may vary depending on individual skin condition and usage frequency.
How to choose the best Japanese mask for acne?
Choosing the best Japanese mask for acne depends on your individual skin type and specific concerns. Here are some key factors to consider:
Your Skin Type:
- Oily/Combination skin: Look for masks with clay, charcoal, or BHA to absorb excess oil and unclog pores.
- Dry/Dehydrated skin: Choose masks with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or squalane to deeply hydrate and prevent irritation.
- Sensitive skin: Opt for fragrance-free and gentle formulas with calming ingredients like centella asiatica or licorice root extract.
Your Acne Concerns:
- Blackheads and whiteheads: Masks with AHA, BHA, or charcoal can help exfoliate and unclog pores.
- Inflammation and redness: Look for masks with calming ingredients like centella asiatica, green tea, or licorice root extract.
- Hyperpigmentation and scarring: Choose masks with vitamin C, tranexamic acid, or niacinamide to brighten and even skin tone.
Ingredients to look for when choosing a Japanese face mask for acne-prone skin
- Salicylic Acid: A popular ingredient known for its exfoliating properties. It helps unclog pores, reduce sebum production, and fight acne-causing bacteria.
- Tea Tree Oil: Possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce acne and calm redness and inflammation.
- Green Tea Extract: Rich in antioxidants, green tea extract helps soothe irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and control oil production.
- Centella Asiatica Extract: Also known as Cica, this ingredient has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. It can help calm and repair acne-prone skin.
- Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3 that regulates oil production, reduces pore size, and improves overall skin texture. It also helps fade acne scars and hyperpigmentation.
- Azelaic Acid: Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, azelaic acid helps reduce acne-causing bacteria, control sebum production, and fade acne marks.
- Hyaluronic Acid: While not specifically targeting acne, hyaluronic acid is beneficial for maintaining hydration and preventing excessive dryness that may exacerbate acne.
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera can help calm inflammation and promote skin recovery from acne breakouts.
- Licorice Extract: Contains anti-inflammatory and brightening properties. It helps reduce redness and post-acne hyperpigmentation.
- Charcoal: Ideal for deep cleansing, charcoal helps draw out impurities, excess oil, and toxins from the skin, which can be beneficial for acne-prone skin.
What ingredients to avoid when choosing a Japanese face mask for acne prone skin?
When choosing a Japanese face mask for acne-prone skin, it's generally recommended to avoid certain ingredients that may potentially irritate or worsen acne. Here are some ingredients to watch out for:
- Fragrances: Artificial fragrances can be irritating and may cause inflammation or allergic reactions, potentially exacerbating acne symptoms.
- Alcohol: Alcohol-based ingredients, such as denatured alcohol or ethanol, can strip the skin of its natural moisture and disrupt the skin's barrier function, leading to dryness and potential irritation.
- Harsh exfoliants: Avoid face masks that contain rough or abrasive exfoliating particles, as they can cause micro-tears in the skin and worsen acne inflammation.
- Heavy oils and comedogenic ingredients: Certain oils and ingredients with a high comedogenic rating, such as coconut oil or mineral oil, can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulations.
- Sulfates: Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), are foaming agents that can strip the skin of its natural oils and disrupt the skin's moisture balance, potentially leading to dryness and irritation.
- Artificial colors: Artificial dyes and colors may be unnecessary additives that can potentially irritate the skin, especially for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
- High concentrations of essential oils: While some essential oils can be beneficial, certain oils, such as citrus oils (e.g., lemon, orange), may be too harsh for acne-prone skin and can cause skin sensitization.
Is charcoal or clay mask better for acne?
Both charcoal and clay masks are beneficial for acne. Charcoal masks draw out impurities and control oil production, while clay masks absorb excess oil and unclog pores. Experiment with both to see which works best for your skin. Follow instructions and avoid overuse.
Should I use clay masks if i have acne?
Yes, using a clay mask can be helpful for acne-prone skin. Clay masks absorb excess oil, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation, making them beneficial for managing acne.
Do clay masks shrink pimples?
Clay masks can help reduce the appearance of pimples by absorbing excess oil, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation. While they may not eliminate pimples completely, they can assist in minimizing their size and promoting healing.
Your face, your way!
I hope you enjoyed riding with me on this journey to getting clear, acne-free skin. These were some of my tried and tested products that work wonderfully well on acne-prone skin.
These masks penetrate into the skin to begin the work to goodness from inside.
I hope you found something that fascinated you. Try these out today and see the results for yourself.
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