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SHOP PAULA'S CHOICE
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Exfoliating 2% BHA Gel
Best for: Normal to Very Oily Skin
2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel
Skin looks and feels smooth, soft, and even-toned
Exfoliates both the skin's surface and inside the pore lining with a 2% concentration of salicylic acid (BHA) and a pH range of 3.2-3.6
Water-based, non-occlusive gel formula is quickly absorbed by the skin
Salicylic acid has natural anti-inflammatory (soothing) and antibacterial properties
May be worn under makeup, sunscreen, moisturizer, or specialty product
Excellent for all skin types, especially normal to oily skin with stubborn blemishes and blackheads
100% fragrance- and colorant-free
NOTE: Those allergic to aspirin (acetylsalicylate) should not use products containing salicylic acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid or BHA).
Product Rating:
Read 66 reviews >>
100% guarantee 60 day return policy / 2-5 Day Delivery
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2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel
Skin looks and feels smooth, soft, and even-toned
Exfoliates both the skin's surface and inside the pore lining with a 2% concentration of salicylic acid (BHA) and a pH range of 3.2-3.6
Water-based, non-occlusive gel formula is quickly absorbed by the skin
Salicylic acid has natural anti-inflammatory (soothing) and antibacterial properties
May be worn under makeup, sunscreen, moisturizer, or specialty product
Excellent for all skin types, especially normal to oily skin with stubborn blemishes and blackheads
100% fragrance- and colorant-free
NOTE: Those allergic to aspirin (acetylsalicylate) should not use products containing salicylic acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid or BHA).
Water, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, (solvent/water-binding agent), Polysorbate 20 (emulsifier), Salicylic Acid (beta hydroxy acid/exfoliant), Phytosphingosine (cell-communicating ingredient), Hydroxyethylcellulose (gel-based thickener), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract (antioxidant), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract (antioxidant) Epilobium Angustifolium (Willow Herb) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract (anti-irritant), Bisabolol (anti-irritant), Sodium Hydroxide (pH-adjusting agent), Tetrasodium EDTA (chelating agent).
Directions: Apply a dime-sized amount to clean skin and massage over face, including around the eyes (do not apply to eyelids). Follow with a Paula's Choice Blemish Fighting Solution (if needed), moisturizer, and/or specialty product. For daytime, wear under a product rated SPF 15 or higher. Note: Persons allergic to aspirin should not use a product containing salicylic acid.
How does Paula's Choice 2% BHA Gel compare to the 2% BHA Liquid?
The main difference lies with each product's texture. The 2% BHA Liquid has a toner-like consistency. The 2% BHA Gel features a water-light base. Both products are also appropriate for all skin types.
I currently use Paula's Choice 2% BHA Lotion. Should I switch to the 2% BHA Gel? Is it all right to use both?
It is entirely a matter of personal preference. It is completely acceptable to use more than one of our 2% BHA products, though use only one at a time. A typical regimen would be to apply the 2% BHA Gel in the morning under makeup and the 2% BHA Lotion in the evening.
I have tried Paula's Choice 2% BHA and 2% BHA Liquid and did not care for the texture. Will the 2% BHA Gel work for me?
Quite possibly, yes. It's worth trying because your skin may prefer the feel of a gel to a lotion or the slip of the liquid.
Customer Reviews
Product Rating:
(66 reviews)
Update From Previous Review
I must admit I did not like this exfoliant at first. I could not layer other products over it without the gel breaking up into clots. However, by following the advice of customer service and letting it absorb for several minutes, I find it performs acceptably.
—Ryan
LOVE the acne products with the 2% BHA! I have had acne all of my 40 years and have tried EVERYTHING including Accutane. Nothing has worked as quickly or given me the results your products have in such a short time. My face is clear AND soft, not dry, tight, and red. I am so pleased!
—Heather D.
Thank you so much for providing the 2% beta hydroxy acid in a gel form, I love it!!! Your products continue to win me over, step by step, they are just so superior! Thank you again!
—Shera Y.
I use your 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel and all your other blemish control products. Plus I ordered your Lipstick in Sheer Formula SPF 15. I love everything! I feel confident purchasing from Paula's Choice that I will get the best products available. Thank you for having your own line!
—Annette D.
Thank you Paula. For the first time in my life I have soft feeling, blemish free skin. I use the Skin Balancing Cleanser, Skin Balancing Toner, 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel, and the Skin Balancing Moisture Gel. This is the first time in my life that I have ever used a moisturizer on a daily basis and without fearing breakouts. Thanks for the beautiful new skin and the confidence boost.
—Susan S.
I have struggled w/acne since I was in 6th grade. I started seeing a dermatologist at age 11! I have tried Purpose soap, clindamycin, Cleocin, Benzoyl Peroxide, Retin A, tetracycline, minocyclin, doxacylin, minocyn, and more. I was on Accutane 3 times (yes THREE times!!!) and it worked every time, but my acne always ended up coming back. The 2% Beta Hydroxy Gel is the only thing that has worked & keeps my skin CLEAR. I use the Skin Balancing cleanser, toner, & oil free moisturizer & the Blemish Control lotion as well & my skin has NEVER LOOKED BETTER! It literally GLOWS! THANK YOU!!
—Michele S.
Your products have made a tremendous difference in my life! I am 56 and have had acne since I was 13. I read your book and immediately bought the 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel and 5% Benzoyl Peroxide. I follow your plan of combining those two with alternating applications of BHA and Retin-A (which I love because I've never developed a single wrinkle!). I have had no new breakouts, my skin looks clear and CLEAN (no blackheads). I also use your Skin Balancing Moisture Gel around my eyes. I cannot thank you enough for your efforts to help break the myths that advertising throws in our face (literally!).
—Susan R.
My skin looks great
I'm 58, and have been using Paula's 2% BHA gel and 8% AHA liquid faithfully for about 6 months (AHA at night, BHA during the day), and I suddenly realized how much smoother and clearer my skin has become. AND, when I had a facial at Red Door Spa yesterday, the esthetician said there was nothing she could recommend that I change about my skin care routine, and asked what I use!
—Cindy
Really helped my acne
I have been struggling with acne around my chin since going off the pill. This product, along with benzoyl peroxide really helped and the rest of my face looks silky and smooth. This is a great product and I can't wait to try the rest of your line. Thanks!
—Jennifer
2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel
This product exfoliates as advertised. However, it balls up unacceptably under all products I try to layer over it. The Weightless Body Treatment with 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid has the same problem, but to a lesser degree. The 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid lotion has superior texture and hydration to both of these.
Note from Paula's Choice Customer Care: Ryan, thank you for your feedback. Please remember that any product you aren't happy with can be returned for a full refund. We know that this "pilling" problem can happen with gel-type products but it doesn't happen for everyone. One of the way to prevent the pilling from happening is to allow the gel to absorb completely before applying anything else over it. If you have any questions please feel free to call us or contact us via live chat.
—Ryan
Miraculous
This gel is nothing short of a miracle. I've tried benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid peels, lactic acid, you name it. Everyone of them dried and irritated my skin, and the blackheads came right back. This gel has made my skin clear, smooth, soft, and blackhead free. I wish I had found this product years ago. Thanks for saving my skin!
—Kate
Paula Fan!!!
ok so im only fourteen, and as you may know due to my age my face is freaking out right now, and i swear i was starting to lose hope but oh my goodness this stuff is awesome, it made my acne go away without screwing up my face, thank you thank you thank you!!
—lana
Excellent!
I use this after epilating my bikini area to prevent and quickly heal those irritating red spots. It also prevents ingrown hairs. I have tried many other products without success and have struggled with this problem for years. This is the one and only product that really works!
—Judy Fried
AMAZING product
I never had acne as a child...but starting last May I started getting bumps on my forehead, which later spread to my whole face. They just looked like bumps filled with pus, and not really red...more white. I tried researching to see what it was - and came up with closed comedones. I went to the dermatologist and she prescribed me Differin gel, but after hearing such bad reviews on the product, I searched around for other options. I read all the rave reviews about this product and decided to try. And let me just tell you - a year later - I am completely acne free! And it worked so fast too, you could really see differences within a week! It makes your skin SOOO smooth, it's really a godsend! thanks Paula!
—Christina
Best product in the universe!
I have tried and wasted hundreds (probably thousands!!) of dollars on skincare to treat my acne-prone and hyper-sensitive skin. This is the only product that cleared up my skin, kept it clear, and soothed it at the same time!! Thank you thank you thank you!
—Mare
Love your AHA & BHA
I'm a believer, Paula! My skin no longer feels dry and tight after cleansing and your salyclic acid is miles above any I've tried. Your AHA is also the perfect exfoliant - minimal irritation, maximum results. I always thought I had super dry skin. Now, my skin is still a little dry sometimes, but its miles away better! Who knew I was doing it to myself! My best friend still uses a bar of charcoal peppermint soap that she thinks will help her combination acne/dry skin. 'That's not acne,' I say, 'that is some intense irritation from the waxes and peppermint! I cringe to think how she must be so frustrated with her skin; meanwhile, my skin 'issues' have evaporated! I cant wait to try your skin lightener...Bye-bye freckles!!!!
—Michelle
2% BHA Gel
My all-time favourite is the 2% BHA Gel. The texture is a dream and it outdoes any other product that I have tried. Thank you for an amazing product that my skin can't do without!
—Connie
Prefer the 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion
The 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel stays sticky on my skin regardless of the amount used and length of drying time. 2% Lotion is a far superior product.
—Linda
Love this!! :D
I'm 36 and wished I had this during my teenage years...had bad acne...used retin-A and took tetracycline. Differin worked great but my skin is too sensitive. Currentlyl, I have problems with breakouts from allergies. I tried it on my perioral dermatitas. They are like little white itchy pimples that are caused by allergies to dustmites; and this product worked beautifully. First time since I started using this gel...I have been going without make-up! No more coverup or heavy makeup to hide blemishes. Thank you Paula for giving me beautiful skin for the first time in 25 years!!
—Alice Chan
Yay BHA!
Tried this and the liquid because I'll run out of my Weightless Body Treatment before winter! The gel is superior in texture to the liquid! However, I prefer the WBT (thus 4 stars). BHA 2% products have done wonders for my skin!
—Jessica
Frustratingly sticky and tacky
The stickiness of this product is a real time. The product never soaks in and my skin remains tacky-feeling until it is washed off. I absolutely can't wear makeup over it.
I'm going to try the lotion as I see another user with the same problem claims it does not have this issue.
—Sarah
FABULOUS PRODUCTS!!!
The 2% beta hydroxy acid (BHA) gel is the latest (along with the skin recovery moisturizer) product I've ordered from Paula's Choice line. I can't rave enough about either. My skin is smooth, clear and radiant (no more small bump acne like feeling on my forehead which was most prominent and bothersome near the hairline) after only a few days' use! I should have ordered this a long time ago. The moisturizer has totally eliminated the dry, flaky skin on the folds of my nose. Thanks once more Paula!!! I now use the one step cleanser, skin balancing toner, super antioxidant concentrate, and skin balancing super antioxidant mattifying concentrate. Next weekend project: clearing my bathroom of any and all facial care products which do not read Paula's Choice on them.
—Carmen
The Best of the Best
The 2% BHA Gel is an absolute classic among the whole range of Paula's Choice products. Unless there emerges a better formulation, don't ever discontinue this product.
—Kelvin
At Last
I've wanted for so long to write this kind of review. I've been disappointed so many times by other products (some of them big name) claiming to do what this product actually does. I think it's taken *years* of junk out of my pores. Blemishes are reduced to almost nothing (yay) but the texture is so much better as well. I've been using it for a few months and my skin *still* continues to improve every day. The only reason I gave the product 4 stars instead of 5 is that it is a little more sticky than I care for. But I put it on light and only use it at night and the benefits far outway a little bit of sticky. I would recommend this product to anyone with clogged pores and oily skin that doesn't seem to respond to anything else.
—Carla
Great for keratosis pilaris
Your 2% BHA gel is one of the 2 keys I've found for treating the keratosis pilaris on my upper arms and legs.
The other key was using a body wash with a body puff instead of bar soap.
—Lynne
Stopped working
When I first started using this product, it did decrease the shine on my face for a good portion of the day but then I noticed it kind of stopped working for me and the shine came back sooner, also noticed hard like bumps along my chin and hairline, stopped using it
—Sharon
Paula saved my face!
Paula,
Thank you so much for your wonderful exfoliants. The 2% gel and liquid literally saved my face. I couldn't imagine being without your products. I will always be a loyal customer, and I need you now more than ever during this recession! Not only are your products of the highest quality, but they are accessible and affordable too. Thank you many times over. You are a lifesaver!
—Eva
Great for the body, not such a great face product
Highly recommended! Will work wonders on your bumpy upper arms, your itchy ingrown haired legs and your rough calloused feet.
—Natalie Elliott
So far so good
I started using the 1% BHA gel and that didn't seem effective enough so about a month ago I switched to the 2% gel. It's been more drying than the 1% but my overall skin tone looks and feels better so far.
—Anne
Attention to those with dry skin!
Makes skin look great, BUT those with normal/dry skin MUST use good moisturizer underneath this, otherwise skin will peel/flake.
—Adam
A+
I'm 45 and have never had a product make this much difference in my skin. The blackheads on my nose are almost non-existent and I no longer get what I call 'underground' pimples -- the ones that are deep in the skin and painful. I even have my mom using the 1% BHA now. I am sorry to see many of Paula's makeup items being discontinued but I'm relieved that she will continue her skin care line.
—Deanna
Love it
I have bought this for my kids and my sister's kids. Love it!
—Louise Miller
The best product in the entire line
I have been using Paula's Choice products for many years now. The 2% BHA Gel, in my opinion, is the most well-formulated and effective product in the entire line if you suffer from acne. Of course that's subjective, but this product comes as close to performing a miracle as any I've tried. Indeed, it's the only product I've ever used where the results are almost immediate and unparalleled. There is one "secret" to using this product (although the secret is written clearly in the directions of the bottle): only use a little bit. If you don't use very little, the product is very tacky on the skin, and leaves a visible film/shine. Otherwise, I believe this product is extraordinary (and much better than the liquid or lotion versions of this same product). It's a shame that products of this quality are a rarity.
—Dustin
Be patient!!
I am 38 and have had moderate acne my whole life and have tried everything from doctors, drug store products, QVC and HSN skincare and proactive.This 2% gel is the best product in this line for acne prone skin! Takes a little to get used to the texture, but let it sit on skin a minute or two before applying the blemish fighting solution and it will be magic for your skin. I love the fact it includes plant antioxidants as well.
—Molly Hickerson
changed how I think about my skin
I'm switching to the 2% lotion for the winter, but I have to say that this product has changed the way I think about my skin. I have had stubborn areas on my forehead and chin that always were bumpy. Within a few days, those are gone, gone, gone. I still get the occasional breakout, but the persistent blackheads and whiteheads are gone. (By breakout I mean pimples versus small bumps). Also, in the winter my skin would flake. I thought it was just because it was dry, so I'd slather on more and more lotion. But now I realize that I wasn't exfoliating well. Now my skin doesn't look so dry, even before I put any moisturizer on. I love this stuff.
—Lynn
Can't live without
I have been using alpha/beta hydroxies(sp?) since I was a teenager. I know how important they are to one's skin, and especially to mine. I have oily /combination skin prone to brake-outs.
If I don't use the acids for a couple of days I can see the difference. Pimples!!!
Paula's choice is the only brand of which I can trust the ph level to be at an effective level. I also love that it comes in a nice pure gel without unnecessary additives. The icing on the cake is that it is affordable!
Thank you Paula for making good skincare affordable for everyone!!!
—Jennifer Alston
Worked perfectly!
This really cleared my skin! I had really bad acne and oily skin but I could see the difference after just 2 weeks!
—Charlene
GREAT PRODUCT
This is a great product, but you must follow Paula's directions and only use about a dime size amount on your entire face. If you use more than that it is too sticky and does not work well.
—David
Great daily exfoliant
This product really works. It has a silky texture that applies easily. When used consistently, it really helps improve the skin's appearance by effectively managing acne breakouts. Let it dry completely before applying additional products.
—C.
Excellent product
I just started using 2%BHA gel and I love its results. I love the fact that I can control my acne with just one product. In the past I have used proactiv, DDF and other expensive products but none of them were as effective. Highly recommended for acne prone skin.
—Priya Kaur
Thank You Paula
I just love, love, love this product! My skin is clear; thanks. Is there any chance of an AHA/BHA combo?
—Steph
Great, but not as perfect as other PC products
I give this a 4 because it is entirely effective however it remains shiny and sticky on the skin for 20-30 min, does not absorb quickly like advertised. I do need to say again though, great product, works very well.
—Ben
Prefer the liquid
I had a problem with the applying product over the gel solution, so I switched to the liquid and have been much happier.
—Stella
great product
I am almost positive I purged using this product. However, now that my skin has settled down, the gel is working like a charm. I use to use the lotion, but i wanted to test out a moisturizer so i switched
to the gel. No complaints, awesome product.
—A
Good gel
I am overall happy with this gel. It does the job and has nice consistency. I just do not understand why it does not come in a tube package. It would be so much easier to use. I noticed packaging is an issue with Paula's products. Many do not come in easy to use (get the product out) packages. You also have to make sure you spread this product thin and wait a while before applying makup or it may cake up and look unattractive. I will try liquid next time as this will not be an issue with a liquid product.
—Agnieszka Matichyn
REAL results
I didn't even realize how uneven and rough my skin was until I used this gel!!! I now have smooth, clear skin. Many days now, I just wear a little powder - no foundation my skin looks so good. Blackheads that I just "accepted" are GONE. I've tried the lotion and its good but I like the gel for summer on my combination skin.
—TW
I owe a lot to this product...
I came across this product 3 years ago when I saw someone write a review on a skin care message board about how it managed to get rid of their blackheads. Being one who always struggled with blackheads and never could find a solution, I gave it a try. For three years I have tried the liquid, gel, and lotion. I also started using other Paula's Choice products. I looked in this mirror this morning and honestly did not want to put on any makeup - my skin was just flawless. There were a few marks from a couple pimples I had during my last period, but that was it. No bumps. No blemishes. No redness. And especially, no blackheads!! Amazing product!! The only thing I don't like about the gel is that it takes a while to saturate into your skin. So if your in a hurry in the morning you can end up with lumps when trying to put on makeup.
—Jennifer
Give it a chance...
This is the best product I have ever used in terms of fighting Keratosis Pilaris on my arms and keeping my acne to a minimum on my face. It just took me some time to use is consistently every day and I saw the results within weeks. Would love to see it in a higher concentration though.
—M
Wonderful & Versatile Stuff!!!
I have sensitive skin but am also prone to blackheads/breakouts (at age 53!). This works better than anything else I've tried without irritating. Also works to clear build-up on my scalp (let it sit for awhile, then wash out).
—Kat
I can't decide!
One thing is for sure: I love Paula's BHA solutions, they really keep my acne in check. I've tried both the gel and the liquid, but I can't decide! The gel is easier to apply, but leaves the face shinier and has more of a texture. The liquid is better, but you have to use cotton pads to apply it unless you want to exfoliate between your fingers (trust me, not good!). Either way, this is definitely a night product for me because of the shine and the photosensitivity.
—Kendall M.
Great exfoliator!
Really good stuff!!
Must try!! One of Paula's best product!
—Sung Jang
Very Dissapointed!
I have been a long time user of the 2% BHA lotion, and when it was unavailable earlier this year I decided to try the gel formulation. I was horribly dissapointed. The product gave me the same results as the lotion, but the texture of the gel was awful, and it wouldn't absorb into my skin - I was left with a sticky face! I would highly reccomend the lotion over this product.
Customer Care: Please call our Customer Service for assistance with finding a product that will work for you. Also, please note that we have a 60-day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy.
—Melissa
LOVE IT!!!
I LOVE this product. I have noticed ever since I started using the line that my oily skin is gone! My pores are tighter and smaller and my blackheads are less and less frequent! Just make sure you moisturize or your face will get super dry.
—Bethany
Doesn't work
I read the other reviews, which said how amazing it was, and it promised to remove my blackhead n whiteheads and stuff but it just doesn't work, my breakouts are more frequent and the blemishes are more numerous in amount! :(
Customer Care: Please call our Customer Service for assistance with finding a product that will work for you. Also, please note that we have a 60-day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy.
—Emeric
Very dissapointed
This 2% Bha has done nothing for my skin, i followed the directions and yet my breakouts have more frequent and my blemishes are more numerous than before, even though the blemishes are smaller this product did not deliver what promised, and when i had a live chat with one of there skin care consultant people they basically just said theres nothing you can do but return it, which i couldn't do, as it was a gift, i am very dissapointed
Customer Care: Please call our Customer Service for assistance with finding a product that will work for you. Also, please note that we have a 60-day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy.
—Eric
Love It!
I have only used this for a few weeks, but I love it. My face is so smooth and even toned. It doesn't sting or irritate at all and I have sensative skin. I even use it on the eczema on my hands and it helps with that too! Thanks for a great product and the good education on skin care for us beninners.
—Megan Morehead
Not happy with this product...
This gel is very sticky and it won't allow following moisturizers to be absorbed. I'm glad that I ordered a sample and didn't actually buy this one. I wish I tried liquid insted of gel.
Customer Care: Please call our Customer Service for assistance with finding a product that will work for you. Also, please note that we have a 60-day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy.
—Caroline
New formula goes on a bit odd!
The new 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel is definitely not as sticky as it used to be,but the smell is much more pronounced,thinking it is the increase in plant extracts,the smell lingers,not a bad smell though.But the oddest thing is the when rubbing it on the skin there is a white frost that you have to blend in,never had this issue with the old formula.
—Erik DesVaux
Great for Combo. skin
I use this product with the blemish fighting solution and love both products. I have combination skin with mild,occasional acne, but since I've started to use these products with a mild cleansers that Paula recommends, I've had no breakouts. They can be a little drying so I only use them once a day and skip some days if my skin is feeling especially dry...the woes of combination skin!
—Alaina
works well, doesn't feel great
This product works well. I am pleased with the results. However, I do not like how it feels on my skin. It is sticky and doesn't seem to absorb well. I will keep using it though because I am pleased with the overall result.
—grace
A Must-Have
This BHA product is a must-have. The gel leaves the skin silky and smooth, and it exfoliates without irritation. This is perfect for anyone with oily skin, especially if you are prone to breakouts. Will definitely repurchase :)
—Al
ok...
This worked okay, nothing miraculous. It didn't seem to work very well on my face, but it helped with the acne on my neck. Maybe the BHA liquid would be better for me, but otherwise it is a good product.
—Grace
Fantastic Product!
I've only been using this product for 4 days but I have already noticed a wonderful improvement in the feel and texture of my skin. Much softer and silkier. I have not yet noticed an improvement on my blackheads, but I expect I will soon. Thanks!!
—Michelle
BHA 2% Gel
Since using this my skin looks more clear and calm. My makeup goes on more smoothly too. I use it at night and only a small amount - that is all you need. Old marks left over from past blemishes seem to be fading faster too. Love this stuff!
—Janine
simply, IT WORKS!!!
i've been using this product for a little over 2 months and it really does what it says it does. i used to have black heads all over my nose and on my cheeks. but it wasn't until 3 days ago, i realized they were gone!!! it also helped control my extremely oily face. now, i dont have to use those oil absorbing sheets every like 3 hours. great job. very satisfied, especially for the price. a friend told me the liquid was better. so i'll be trying that next. funny thing is, the bottle still feels pretty full. so a little goes a long way with this product. i'm so happy. i have no more black heads.
—jacob
Excellent Product!!!!!
I have been using this product for the past 5 days and I am thoroughly pleased. My skin appears clearer and it feels great. I am not even wearing make-up to the office today :-) Love this product! It's a must-have in your arsenal.
—Kathy
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