When following the HCG diet, there are certain lifestyle changes that are important for the diet to work effectively. According to Dr. Simeons HCG diet manuscript, titled “Pounds and Inches”, it is necessary to eliminate the use of most cosmetics, moisturizers, creams and lotions.

Many of these personal care products contain fats and oils that are absorbed through the skin and used as energy, just as if they were eaten. While on the HCG diet, personal hygiene products that contain fats and oils, such as lanolin, will prevent weight loss. Products that contain mineral oil are allowed to be used, since it has no nutritional value. However, mineral should not be ingested as it will cause a significant laxative effect.

The HCG diet also advises against the use of products that contain sodium laureth sulfate and propylene glycol. Sodium laureth sulfate is a skin and eye irritant to many people, particularly with prolonged use. It is also linked to another chemical, 1,4-dioxane, which has been shown to have carcinogenic effects. Meanwhile, propylene glycol is found in many skin care products and over the counter medications. Propylene glycol is converted in the body into useable energy which can interfere with the weight loss effects of HCG.

Products that contain hormones, except for birth control pills, are also to be eliminated during the HcG diet. While most people would think soy based products are safe and natural, soy contains phyto-estrogens, which can have effects in the body similar to the hormone estrogen.

Options for personal care products do exist for people starting the HCG diet. Lipsticks, eyebrow pencils and powder are permitted as long as these products are free of fats (lanolin) and oils. The examples shown below are simplistic products that will do the job without the fluff offered by mainstream products. However, always read the labels before you buy any product.

* Lotions: Coconut oil, plain mineral oil, baby oils (most are mineral oils), or mineral oil based lotions or moisturizers
* Deodorants: crystal deodorant (wet crystal and apply), baking sod
* Toothpaste: Tom’s toothpaste, baking soda
* Soaps: Ivory
* Shampoo and Conditioner: Aubrey Organics (read ingredients, as some may contain non-gmo soy protein)

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