HCG Diet Stabilization Day 3: Just Put Me in a Padded Room Will You?

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Up .5 lbs.

Another ½ a pound gain this morning. I can’t take it anymore! My first call was to my friend (the holidays prevented me from phone the doc). As she provided the time for me to lament over this “growing” problem, she paused, let me catch my breath and told me that she had gone through the same thing. She experienced a 3 pound gain in these first few stabilization days, but as her body began re-adjusting, those pounds came back off.

Okay. That’s fine for her – but this is me! How am I supposed to manage my day without killing members of my family as I stare down at a scale showing me a gain?? (by the way, I still think the scale is broken!) I hung up the phone and decided that there was really nothing I could do except try to stick to the increased calorie diet and just do what I’m told. I figured, forget this!
I’m going to push the 1500 mark and see what happens! With that in mind, I set out on the journey that is my menu for the day.

coffee
water
Breakfast: one bite of banana with peanut butter
Lunch: green beans, small salad with tomato only ranch dressingwater
Snack: two pieces of celery with goat cheese
Dinner: 3 oz steak, 5 small shrimp, a couple bites of corn, salad (tomato, black olives, onion, mushroom and greek dressing)
water
2 beers (hey, the Suns are playing!)
Snack: a handful of cashews, ½ of an apple

ESTIMATED TOTAL CALORIES: 1190

I amped up my water intake, thinking I needed to offset and flush out the beer consumption today. We’ll cross our fingers on this one.

- Gina

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HCG Diet Stabilization Day 2: Peel Me Off the Ceiling Please!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Up .7 lbs.

Someone better talk me down this morning! I’ve gained .7 pounds! Is someone kidding me with this? Surely the scale must be broken. I frantically go to my calorie/food list from the yesterday and begin re-calculating my menu. Did I forget to add 3 pieces of chocolate cake somewhere in there? There must be a milkshake and fries that I forgot to compute! Nope! Nothing like that! I’m completely within the guidelines of what I’m suppose to eat! I’m low on the 1500 calorie count, but other than that… Darn it! There’s got to be a reason!

Stunned, I began tackling this new day. I think I wandered around for the first few hours, dazed, shocked and utterly confused. Do I call the doctor? Do I talk with my friend who’d been through this before? Do I run over the scale with my car? Gathering myself together, I decided that this must be a fluke; a re-adjusting, if you will, of my body getting back to normal. Surely this won’t be a pattern and once my body realizes that I can re-introduce regular food into my system, it will re-adjust and settle back in to my loss. So, I’m going through my day, still cautious, but devoted to writing down each item and calculating the results.

Breakfast: one bite of banana with peanut butter (organic, no sugar)watercoffee
Lunch: one piece of ham rolled up with American cheese and mustard
Snack: a handful of cashews
Dinner: one bowl chili with some shredded cheese and one beer (hey, it’s been a taxing day!)Water

ESTIMATED TOTAL CALORIES: 715

Ironically, I still feel good. My digestive system isn’t in any weird shock or anything, I’m not feeling bloated and the best news of all…my jeans still fit! Onward to the next day!

- Gina

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HCG Diet Stabilization Day 1: I’m Scared to Death!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Up .5 lbs.

The day has finally come! It’s arrived! I’m a free woman again – well, sort of. I rise this morning with a mixture of feelings. I can eat again, sure, but what to eat…? I’ve been literally dreaming of this day, almost able to taste the food as is melts away in my mouth. I’ve been making mental notes of the banquet that I’ll lay out, savoring each morsel and reveling in the contentment of being well, normal again. But here it is – the day has come and I’m scared to death!

I almost don’t want to eat at all. I choose something and I’m spending 10 minutes calculating the caloric intake and the results this will have on my final weight. I contemplate whether or not it’s worth it as I write down each item, it’s weight, it’s calories, it’s fat etc. Will this be worth it? I can jump up to a whopping 1500 calories today, but do I really want to do that?

I decide to go safely down this road. A ¼ cup of egg beaters with some American cheese and (of course) water to wash it down. Each forkful is a small trip to heaven and back. I swear it took me 20 minutes to eat this small, calculated portion as I delighted in the smell, the texture and the reality that I can actually consume this fluffy goodness! Mmmm… good stuff!

I was careful today. Only eating when I was really hungry and writing down each item that I put in my mouth. I decided to create a spreadsheet, tracking what I was eating. Until I can make educated guesses, I’ll try to be as specific as possible, reading each label and double-checking with websites to be more accurate. I want to continue seeing this loss that I’ve worked so hard for. I want to be able to maintain this sense of accomplishment as I venture through these next 3 weeks.

My husband promised to take me out to dinner tonight. A real restaurant, with real people in it! I can look at a menu again! I can be among the land of the living again! Can’t wait!!

Breakfast: 1/4 cup egg beaters with one pc American cheesewatercoffee
Lunch: salad (lettuce, tomato, cheese, green olives, red onion, hard boiled, ranch dressing)
Dinner: salad (lettuce, tomato, cheese, black olives, greek dressing)vegetable soupwatericed tea
Snack: 2 pcs gouda cheese

ESTIMATED TOTAL CALORIES: 640

640 calories? Boy, I’m really shy of this 1500 mark. I think because I’m terrified to eat again, I’m being overly cautious. Gosh darn, I need to find a way to inch up to a larger calorie intake!

We’ll see how it goes tomorrow!

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 26: The Final Day of the Yucky Menu!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .5 lbs.

It’s arrived! It’s actually here! I can feel myself breaking the tape at this momentous finish line! I’m another .5 pounds down this morning and even though I didn’t hit that 20 pound mark, I know that during this upcoming stabilization phase that I’ll fluctuate a little bit. And you know, even if I don’t make it exactly, I can honestly tell you I feel fantastic! ALL of my jeans fit, my body isn’t aching anymore, my complexion is clearer and even though my chest has shrunk a bit (not too sure how hubby feels about that) I feel like a brand new woman!

I currently weigh 138.5. Would I love to be 137 or even 135, of course! But all in all, I’m looking better in my clothes and feeling better about myself. I realize that I’m taking some extra time getting ready in the morning. I’m finding that those old sweatshirts and baggy pants aren’t doing it for me anymore. I have the desire of wanting to look good! Hallelujah for this diet! The time is getting near! Real food is calling my name!

For the last time!

Lunch: 3oz white fish, lettuce, one breadstick, one apple
Dinner: 3oz chicken, tomatoes, one breadstick and one orange

I think this day is the hardest yet. Just fighting one more time through this menu is tough, knowing that a banquet of choices awaits me tomorrow. Everything that I have been denying myself over these past weeks, I can hear calling my name. So, today, I’m off to the grocery store to begin reading labels and writing down some notes for myself on how to go about my first day of freedom. I’ll need to rope myself in from over-eating and make sure that my water intake stays up. No starch, no sugar. I can conquer this next challenge!

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 25: Transition Day #2 – I Can Do This, I Can Do This!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 1.2 lbs.

Another 1.2 pounds lost! I’ve found my cloud nine today!! I think I may reach this goal and I’m staring down the barrel of the final 1 ½ pounds to shed. I can do this, I can do this! On days like today, I feel as though I can conquer anything! What do you have for me? Brain surgery? That pesky little mid-east conflict? Hand it over honey, I can do anything today!

I’m not feeling any real hunger today and my cravings are down. My energy is up and I’m looking at this nasty plate of food (for the millionth time) and I know I can swallow every bit, no problem! I’m going hard core on my water intake and have reached an 80oz mark on this. Feelin’ good my friend!

Lunch: 3oz. chicken, lettuce, one breadstick and an apple
Dinner: 3oz. beef, tomatoes, a breadstick and an orange for desert

As I look back on my menu that I’ve been recording, it seems as though I’ve consumed an entire farm full of chicken and beef. So, to all of my vegan friends out there…oops! But hey, you gotta do what you gotta do! Trust me, I’ve made it up in all of the bushels of apples and baskets of tomatoes I’ve eaten. Crazy!

Only one more day of this madness and I’ll feel free as a bird! I’m working on my menu for the upcoming stabilization phase and so far all I have on it that I’m sure of is – yep! You guessed it, cheese!

- Gina

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Derma Health Institute to Open a Third Location in 2009

Derma Health Institute is excited to announce the opening of their third office in the East Valley. The new location, at 1345 East Chandler Boulevard in Ahwatukee, is scheduled to open January 5th, 2009.

Recently honored by Arizona Woman Magazine as one of the Top 10 Med Spas in the valley, Derma Health Institute is a physician-based medical center specializing in non-invasive and minimally invasive laser and aesthetic procedures. Derma Health Institute offers services such as Titan skin tightening, laser hair removal, microdermabrasion and laser wrinkle reduction.

“In today’s economy we are thrilled that our business continues to grow,” said Trish Gulbranson, owner of the new Derma Health Institute. “Our statistics show us that even in the down-turned marketplace; patients are visiting our offices for procedures like Botox an average of 2.9 times a year as compared to the national average of 1.3 times. Year over year our revenue has increased 71% for these types of procedures.”

In 2008, Derma Health Institute was honored as a Diamond Level provider for Botox® and Juvederm™ by Allergen, the company that produces the products, and was recognized as one of the largest providers of these products in the state.

“The growth of our practice shows that people are looking for minimally invasive procedures that allow them to look years younger and feel rejuvenated and revitalized,” added Gulbranson.

“This expansion will provide Ahwatukee residents with a plethora of innovative procedures.”
With the growth of Derma Health Institute, additional procedures have been added such as non-invasive skin tightening which grew more than 30% last year, fractional laser resurfacing which provides effective treatment with less down time than previous laser procedures grew 130% year over year and diet and nutritional counseling.

“We are no longer just treating the surface of the skin but also working with our patients from the inside out,” stated Gulbranson. “What affects the surface of our skin is many times a reflection of something going on internally.”

As with the other two locations, Derma Health Institute of Ahwatukee will provide clients top-of-the-line care performed exclusively by trained, licensed, and certified medical and aesthetic staff. Derma Health Institute also provides customers with free consultations to determine their skin needs.

For more information on services or to schedule your appointment at the new Derma Health Institute, call (480) 539-0777 Mesa / (480) 730-9000 Chandler, or Ahwatukee (480)-460-1505 (after January 5). For all media inquires contact Charlotte Risch at The Media Push at 602-418-8534 .

http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com

HCG Diet Day 24: Transition Day #1

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Okay, no shots to look forward to, but I am still maintaining this grueling, monotonous low calorie diet. I woke to a loss – hooray! And currently, I am 17.8 pounds down. I feel as though I’m getting a bit hungry but I attribute that to the anticipation of eating real food again. I will be faithful to very end of this whole thing and I’m getting anxious for the stabilization phase. I’ve already started making mental notes of the foods I will be able to enjoy again.

My energy has been pretty consistent and there’s so much to do with the holidays getting closer that I’ll need every bit of that energy to keep me distracted as the cookies, cakes and candies are being made. Deep breathes!

Some have asked why I decided to take this diet on during the holiday season with so many temptation at every turn and I figure that if I can make it through the most difficult of seasons, I will have a better chance of maintaining whatever loss I experience. (Just a little mental game I like to play, which so far has been working!)

Lunch: 3oz lean ground beef with tomatoes, one breadstick and one apple
Dinner: 3oz. chicken, tomatoes, one breadstick and an orange for desert

I’ve hit my goal of drinking 72oz of water today and I’ve noticed that if I really stay conscious on this habit, I feel so much better the next day. Do yourself a favor; stay faithful to the water consumption. Even when you feel as though your gag reflex has gone into overtime, it becomes easier and is a great way to feel a consistent internal cleanse. One transition day down – two more to fight through!

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 23: No More HCG Shots!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Up .2 lbs.

Well, hooray, this is my final day of injections! I’ve got to tell you I’m a little out of sorts because I woke this morning to a .2 gain. Yes, gain. The confusion I’m experiencing with this diet is extraordinary. I go through each day, so careful not to stray from the program and I keep such a tight reign on my activities and schedule so as to not get into any tempting situations. Even though I’m not really happy about today’s gain (as small as it may seem), I do find relief in the fact that I have finished my injections and I look forward to the stabilization phase.

The next two days will be a bit out of the norm seeing as that we’re heading out of town to visit my in-laws for an early Christmas. This won’t be a challenge to say “no” to extra food or things that are off my diet. But instead it’s just a pain in the butt to have to divide out food for two days, pack it up and travel at odd hours. It looks like I’ll be eating some pretty cold protein from the comfort of my car. Wonderful.

The only thing about this trip that really stopped me was the snacking done by the rest of my family during the drive. As I munched religiously on my apple, I could smell the aroma of the grapes or chips or Oreos that floated from the back of the vehicle and seemed to smack me right in the face. Again, wonderful. I continued to down my water, only to find that the rate at which I was drinking was not really conducive to a road trip. Frequent stops were required. Well, they’ll have to live with it! After all, they get to eat their cookies without a peep from me, what more did they want?

It was also pleasant to have to explain this whole diet program in the Reader’s Digest form to my in-laws. They didn’t really understand why I’d be putting myself through this self-inflicted hell, but they were supportive nonetheless. They watched, patiently as I divided my food, weighed it and sat down. I began eating slowing while watching the plethora of goodies pass in front of me out of the corner of my eye, trying desperately not to look…well, desperate. “No thank you, I’ll pass on the lasagna.” “No, really, I don’t want any pie.” (But, I’ll be a good girl and sip my water and watch the rest of you eat…and eat…and…you get the idea.)

Three more days, I keep repeating to myself. Three more days of maintaining this menu and calorie intake and then…I’ll be free again. Well, almost. After I’m done with this phase, I’ll have three more weeks of no sugar, no starch. That rule doesn’t even seem to affect me right now. I keep thinking about my cheese – Ahh, my cheese. We will be friends again soon! Sure, I’ll increase my calorie intake, but I can already sense that I’m nervous about jumping into anything that might have a reverse effect on my weight loss. We’ll, see!

Lunch: 3oz. lean beef, lettuce, one breadstick and an apple
Dinner: 3oz chicken, tomato, one breadstick and strawberries

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 22: Hallelujah For One More Pound!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 1 lbs.

One whole pound! I can’t believe it! I thought I wouldn’t see that ever again. I’ve just been chipping away at this little by little for so many days that I thought the sight of one pound weight loss was a thing of the past. It’s nice to see you leave again little pound!

This is the day for my follow up with Dr. Watwood. We’ll discuss the next phase of stabilization and talk about any concerns or needs I might have. I’ll tell you, it’s been a God-send having her at my disposal throughout all of this. If you are considering doing this diet, you should do it through the help of a doctor. You NEED to have that guidance and quick answers to things that you may be doubting at the time. She’s been a great cheerleader!

As my appointment proceeded, I realized all of the things I’m going to be able to eat once I’m off of this strenuous diet! Cheese! I will be able to have cheese again!! I know this may sound odd, but believe me, it’s a big deal! I’ll be able to actually go out with my friends and family again…to a real, public restaurant! I’ll be able to order real food and…water! Sheesh! Some things won’t change.

Actually, as long as I stay away from sugar and starch, I’ll be okay. After being on this groundhog’s day diet, no sugars or starches should be a cake walk (a “cake” walk? Focus! Focus!). I’ll have three weeks of that stabilization and then, with all of the new habits I’ve formed over those two months, I will look forward to a healthier way of eating! Hallelujah! Hey, as long as I can have an actual salad with more than one vegetable in it, I’m happy!

Lunch: 3oz chicken, lettuce, one breadstick and an apple (yick)
Dinner: 3oz crab, tomatoes, one breadstick and strawberries (yum!)

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 21: Just Plugging Along!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .8 lbs.

Ugh! I vow never to do another “apple day” again! The first time I went through that, it was a new experience and a bit tough, but worth it. This time, I literally had to choke those things down! Yuck! But, I’m down another .8 pounds which brings me to the goal of 16.2 pounds of loss. Hooray for that!

I can’t wait to eat my boring diet today! Yum! Yum! (hey, at least it’s not an apple right?) My cravings are high today. I think because I’m getting so close to being done with this program, I can almost taste the real food that will be heading my way again!

Lunch: 3oz crab, lettuce (make shift dressing), one breadstick and strawberries
Dinner: 3oz. lean steak, tomatoes, one breadstick and an orange

My water intake is still plaguing me and I find that I’m not as enthusiastic to keep re-filling my 32oz water bottle. I take it wherever I go. Even though I realize that it’s so very good for me, this water thing is starting to really get on my nerves! Ironically, I’m not craving soda but instead, just a little glass of orange juice in the morning? Or…heaven forbid…a beer at night! I can’t wait to be able to have options again.

If it’s one thing I’m grateful for, it’s the breaking away of sweets. I thought I might have my monthly cravings of chocolate or need to have a cookie now and then, but truly, I find no hardship in saying “no”. I’m looking forward to seeing that new habit stick.

You know what else I can’t wait for?... manicures! My hands and nails are so incredibly dry, I can hardly stand it! As I look at the calendar, I get more and more excited for the stabilization stage. After eating the same thing over and over again, it will be nice to actually see some variety.

Well, I’m just plugging along here. Same ole, same ole, but with some more positive results! Yea, me!

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 20: Apple Day Again…

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .4 lbs.

Even though I lost just .4 pounds today, I’ve decided to go on the apple day anyway. If I continue to loose just .2 or .4 here and there, I’ll never make my goal of 20 pounds lost. I’ve decided to jump start things and will suffer through one more 6 apple day.

As these days inch by, I realize that this goal I’ve made for myself may seem too big for where I am in life. Maybe I need to just accept that my body is a certain way and that I need to find the happiness in it? Each day that I see a loss, I’m completely thrilled, but I notice that I will instantly find the fault in that loss; hoping it was more. I’m beginning to understand that although my weight is a factor and that I need to loose this weight in order to live a healthier lifestyle, the issues are much deeper than a couple of pounds here and there. I need to begin a process, or “diet” if you will, that works on my personal perception of myself.

To begin a journey that will find what is right with me instead of what I think is wrong. We as women lean towards the critical. We imagine what could be instead of celebrating what already is. I don’t want to continue living my life in the “could be”.

I understand that this diet is my task at hand. And I will continue to be loyal to it and hopefully get the results I’m looking for. But in the meantime, I’ve decided to do a little work on myself personally. For now, I will do my best to celebrate the moment, whether those moments are in this diet or not.

I’m feeling better about the way I look, now I’ll start feeling better about who I am.

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 19: A Small Loss is Better Than Nothing

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .6 lbs.

I’m back on track…I suppose. I’ve lost .6 pounds today and just seem to be hovering over this 14 – 14.5 pound area. This is starting to really get on my nerves. This is day three of going up and down with this one pound. I think it’s time to call the doctor.

Dr. Ann Watwood from Derma Health Institute is in charge on my diet program and I’m so thankful that she’s available to me whenever I need her. Besides feeling safer that I’m doing this under clinical supervision, she’s just a really nice person, who knows what it’s like to want to loose the extra pounds. She told me that because I just completed my cycle that she would advise giving it one more day before I panic.

Perhaps tomorrow, if, for some reason, I don’t loose, I can venture into the 6 apple day again. (yikes! Not what I want to hear.) I was also told that I can expect to loose my goal of 20 pounds. Even though it seems slow going today, tomorrow could give me some great motivation. She also explained, that even though I’m not looking at a full pound a day loss, there is another part to this diet…inches.

As we’re loosing, our bodies are shifting and re-distributing weight more appropriately. That’s another contributing factor to why my jeans are fitting so well. I got a pretty good pep talk from the Dr. and decided to wait it out until tomorrow.

If I don’t see any real reduction, I’ll go on the 6 apple and day quick fix tomorrow.

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 18: Gain? That’s Impossible!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Up .2 lbs.

I’ve gained .2 pounds today. This yo-yo process over my monthly cycle is beginning to get the better of me. I’m loosing, I’m stable, I gain, I loose…stop the madness! What happened to the average one pound of weight loss I was looking forward to? I’ll tell ya something, I better see some dramatic results at the end of this week! I’m irritated today – can you tell? I’ve got another full day of activity and running around, I guess I’ll focus on that stuff instead.

Lunch: 3oz. grilled chicken (Italian seasoning –yum!), lettuce (lemon and vinegar dressing), one breadstick and save my apple for later

Dinner: 3oz. lean ground beef, tomatoes, one breadstick and strawberries for desert

The menu is tedious and I am feeling a bit hungry, but I’m looking forward to a loss tomorrow. But wait!! The doorbell rings. Oh, no! It’s the neighborhood Cub Scout kid delivering my caramel popcorn that I ordered…a month before this diet. Excited, he hands over the package of contraband and I’m left with a half smile on my face as I wave goodbye. Such a sad delivery today. Slowly, I walk to the kitchen to systematically find a good hiding place for this tin can of “caramely” goodness with…aw, man! Peanuts too! Where can I hide this? Who can I give it too? I completely forgot I ordered this container of sin! Well, one more treat for my kids and husband to share…not in front of me.

And speaking of things that are no longer done in my presence; My husband deserves the biggest gold star of all. One of my regular habits is to have a beer or glass of wine with my dinner. I usually do this about 3 nights a week. If I know there’s going to be a basketball game on, well, that may tend to increase my consumption that night. Reasonable? Of course! It’s the NBA! Well, my husband has decided to have a beer when…I’m not in the house. Good for him! I knew he loved me!

Actually, I thought this would be a difficult habit to break, but turns out, I’m managing quite well. I haven’t even considered it an annoyance until now. Wine certainly has way too much sugar content to be consumed on this diet, so that’s a no-brainer. Beer, however (my favorite) may not contain the amount of sugar that wine does, but the combination of alcohol with the HCG hormone, is not a good idea. Your tolerance level drops dramatically while on this diet and if you’re going to do it by the book, just eliminate it completely. A bummer, I know. I will say, I’m looking forward to having a beer when this is all over; preferably in my favorite bar, watching my favorite basketball team. I just know they’ll win that night!

I’m disappointed by the small gain today, but I need to keep plugging along. This is the last day of my cycle and I’m looking forward to getting my body back to normal again. Looking back, this has probably been my easiest period to date. Almost no cramping, no headaches and besides hating my food, I’ve gotten through it. Another day down!

- Gina

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Derma Health Institute Schedules Free Laser Demo Days!

Join us in experiencing our laser treatments through live demonstrations on Saturday, January 17, 2009 at all three of our locations! This is a great opportunity to see how our laser treatments actually work and ask questions of our doctor and laser clinicians. You may choose to either watch the treatment done on a model or have the treatment done yourself.

Our focus will be on skin rejuvenation, such as Photofacial, Laser Genesis and Titan. Time permitting we can also demonstrate any of our available laser treatments, such as VelaShape body contouring, laser vein removal, tattoo removal, laser hair removal, and laser resurfacing.

Just by attending, each individual will also be entered in a drawing for free laser treatments!

If you aren’t available on that date, contact us for a rain check for a personal demonstration at another time more convenient to you!

To RSVP online, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/demo_days.html

Derma Health Institute Schedules Free Leg Vein Screening

Dr. Spice Lussier of Vanishing Veins will be on-hand on Saturday, January 17, 2009 to provide education and one-on-one screenings of leg veins. There is no obligation to purchase and this screening is free to the public.

If you aren’t available for this dates, contact us for a rain check for a personal leg vein screening at another time more convenient to you!

To RSVP, online, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/leg_vein_screening.html

Derma Health Institute Schedules Free hCG Diet Seminar

Just In Time For Your New Year’s Resolution!

Jump start your body into losing weight with the hCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. If you struggle with losing weight, then this diet is for you! Learn how to lose weight and keep it off.

It will be held at all three of our Derma Health Institute locations:

Ahwatukee Location
Thursday, January 29, 2009
10:00 am to 11:30 am

Chandler Location
Saturday, January 10, 2009
9:00 am to 10:30 am

Mesa Location
Saturday, January 10, 2009
11:00 am to 12:30 pm

Refreshments will be served. There is no cost to attend and you’re free to bring a friend.

To RSVP, online, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/ultimate_fat_burning_diet_seminar.html

HCG Diet Day 17: A Very Real Breakdown!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .8 lbs.

I can’t take it anymore! This menu is driving me crazy! I’m hungry!

I realize this morning, I weighed in with a loss of .8 pounds and resumed my injections. I understand that I am venturing through my menstruation without gaining. I get it that I’ve been able to wear almost every pair of jeans tucked away in my closet (and button them without looking like I was auditioning for some contortionists group that travels with the circus). Yes, I realize that I’m loosing weight. All of that considered…I want my food back! I promise, I’ll be good from now on!

I made my lunch today – 3oz of chicken (again), cucumbers with apple cider vinegar (again), my one lone breadstick (again) and my apple (which continues to taunt and tease me as it sits comfortably next to the banana I crave). This afternoon has been the most difficult for me. I sat down with my meal and just stared at it for a minute. I couldn’t bear eating this for the “um-teenth” time.

After the first couple of bites, I shook my head and began feeling sick to my stomach. I could bear forcing this down another day. I got up from the table and took out a Ziploc baggie. I packed the food away and decided to eat a couple of bites throughout the afternoon. I thought, “I’ve lost 14 pounds. That’s good right? That’s enough right? I can quit now and be happy right?”

As I played tug of war with the idea, I knew that even though I have come a long way with this program, that my goal of reaching a 20 pound loss was still hanging out there. I knew that I ultimately wanted to see that 20 pounds disappear. It was an interesting mental tug of war. One that was lost before it even began.

I got through the day. I ate here and there and made a promise to myself that I was bigger than this problem. A breakdown? Absolutely. But I’m also facing a very busy day today and hopefully, with the added distractions, I will persevere.

Dinner: 3oz lean steak, tomatoes, one breadstick and an orange for desert

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 16: I’m Loosing Weight During My Period

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .8 lbs.

This can’t be! Combine water weight, bloating and no injection for the second day and what do I have? Weight LOSS?? I’m happily confused! I’ve only dropped .8 pounds today, but it’s encouraging that I would see the scale go that way instead of displaying an increase. Even though there is a loss, I’m looking forward to resuming the injections tomorrow. I’m nervous that my body may get off track.

I’m still drowning myself with my water intake. Ironically, this is the one thing I thought I’d want to scream about this month. Instead, I’m finding that my body is craving water more than anything else. This is a good thing. I never drink enough water and hopefully, I can continue this habit and make sure my body is getting the water it needs each day.

My cravings have subsided today although I realize that I’m getting hungry, mostly in the mornings. This is the second day that I’ve consciously decided to have half of my fruit during the mid-morning instead of saving it for the afternoon. It all evens out, but I’ve noticed this small change and thought I’d mention it. Hip, Hip Hooray for weight loss DURING my period! Amazing!!

Lunch: 3oz lean ground beef, lettuce (lemon and vinegar dressing), a breadstick and strawberries.

Dinner: 3oz grilled chicken, tomatoes, a breadstick and baked apple (with cinnamon and Stevia) for desert.

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 15: No hGH Hormone Injection Today

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .2 lbs.

The first day of a full menstrual cycle begins and I’ve been instructed to avoid the HCG injection for today as well as tomorrow. No problem! Any time I can avoid getting a needle out, I’m up for that! Actually, the needles are so tiny that there’s no pain involved at all. It’s just a mental thing. In fact, I’m realizing that a large part of this journey is a mental thing!

I’m only down .2 pounds today. I’m a bit discouraged about this, but understand that my monthly cycle will tend to throw my weight off here and there. If I remain faithful to the menu and lifestyle, I’m assured that I’ll loose what I’m supposed to loose.

I’m hungry today. My cravings are strong and I’m longing for something…sweet?? Ironically, no. Usually, around this time of the month, I would gravitate towards something covered in chocolate. But today, I’m looking for something covered in oil and deep fried. I’m not picky. I’ll take anything ya got! You can even grab a vegetable and cover it in grease – I’ll take it! Okay, okay, I’ll get out the celery! Focus! Focus!

One thing I’ve noticed about this diet is that I normally get all out of whack when I haven’t eaten. I get pretty decent headaches and find that I’m dramatically on edge. Combine that with a menstrual cycle and I can be a real bi…I mean I can become a bit difficult. On this diet I’ve experienced absolutely NO headaches. I’m amazed! Yes, I’ve been a bit cranky at times, but I just need to get over it and move on.

Another thing that has been drastically reduced is my cramping during this cycle. I usually experience a couple of days of extreme cramps. This first day of my period, my cramping has been so mild, I can hardly believe it! I think with the absence of sugar in my body and the focus being more on eating for nourishments sake instead of convenience or habit is a real contributor to the decline of discomfort during this time of the month. Hooray!

Lunch: 3oz. of halibut, lettuce (lemon and vinegar dressing), an apple (oh no, not another apple!) and one breadstickDinner: 3oz. grilled chicken, tomatoes, one breadstick and strawberries for desert

High cravings but high energy today. Oh, and did I mention…even on my period, I can STILL button my jeans. All in all…a good day!

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 14: Hooray! Another Pound!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 1 lb.

Another pound down and I’m thrilled! My hunger pangs are depleting and my energy level is rising. I know that my body is getting back to normal again. I’m experiencing some irritation, but I’ll just chalk that up to it being “that time of the month”. Always a pleasant time in my house.

My skin is in tough shape. I am faithful to giving myself manicures and pedicures on a regular basis and it’s not easy to have hands and feet that are cracking. This lack of usual moisture is a fight. The baby oil that I use in the shower each day isn’t really doing the trick and the winter weather is taking it’s toll. But! I can button my pants again!! (priorities, you know!)
I’m so happy with my weight loss and that I actually made it through my ridiculous apple day, I think I’ll treat myself. Crab legs are on sale this week. My favorite!

I’ll keep plugging through today. One pound lighter and only 12 more days to go!

Lunch: 3oz. lean hamburger, tomatoes, strawberries, breadstick
Dinner: 3oz. crab, asparagus, apple, breadstick

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 13: Back On Track

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 1 lb.

Yesterday was a definite struggle. Those six apples were tough to get down, but I weighed in this morning and I’ve lost another pound. That puts me at 11.4 pounds of lost weight. Looking at the fact that I’m on day 13, I realized I should be 13 pounds lighter, but have decided to forgo my frustration and focus on the fact that my menstrual cycle is the culprit. I’m looking forward to the Dr.’s prediction that I will drop the extra weight once my cycle has ended.

My hunger pangs are on the rise. I can actually hear my stomach rumbling and even though my irritability factor in low, I’m craving serious nourishment. At least I can look forward to getting back to the regular menu. Did I actually say that? I’m noticing that my energy level is also low. I have a lot to do today and feel as though I’m dragging a bit.

Lunch arrives and I’m thrilled! 3oz. of grilled shrimp, celery and a breadstick. Even though I’m feeling famished, I’ll have my strawberries mid-afternoon. Man, it’s tough to get through that celery! And while we’re on the subject of veggies, let me just say, there HAS to be some alternatives – I’m begging! Once you get a hold of the list of allowed foods, you’ll know what I’m talking about.

Not only are you limited, but the ironic thing is that the veggie portions seem monumental in comparison to the rest of the portions. You think, “I like cucumbers and celery, that should be no problem” but having a couple of cucumbers versus eating a whole, humongous cucumber or eating a couple pieces of celery versus an entire bag is enough to make even the Pope want to swear out loud.

Managing through this menu has become a difficult struggle for me. I realize that I’m more than half way through and yes, that is quite a light shining at the end of this tunnel. However, I can tell you how important it will be for you to come up with some solid recipes. There is menu fatigue.

Dinner is here! Hooray! 3oz. of lean beef, tomatoes, my breadstick and let’s see… what should I have for desert tonight? An apple? Surely you jest! I never want to see another apple again. I’ll opt for an orange.

This day has handed me a tug of war with my energy level and I’ve been consistently hungry throughout the day. I’m thrilled that I’m down another pound and will, of course, persevere. Hopefully, tomorrow, my body will have evened out a bit and I can get back on track with managing my cravings and hunger.

Down another pound. All in all…a good day.

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 12: An Apple a Day…or Maybe Six?

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down .6 lbs.

I’ve decided to do my best to have a good attitude today. I know it will be a horrible food day, but I’m looking ahead to the potential weight loss that will come out of this. I’ll spread out my apple portions starting at 10am and have one every 2 hours. (this is gonna’ be tough)

By the time two o’clock arrives, I’ve put down three apples. I’m half way there but am beginning to look at the refrigerator as thought it were some evil monster that taunts and teases me as I leave the room. Today is NOT a good day to go grocery shopping. I will say the one good thing about this day is that an apple is a quick thing to grab as I’m out and about. That seems like an awfully small upside.

I’ve been instructed to maintain my water intake. Because of the lack of actual food today, I seem to sucking water down much quicker than usual. Anything to feel full!
Today is the day where I could eat just about anything you’d tempt me with. As I approach the dinner hour and begin cooking for my family, I realized that I was choking down my fifth apple as I applied the bbq sauce to their chicken.

A deep breath here.

There was no way I would be able to actually sit through this dinner tonight. Fortunately, my family is understanding and gave me the night off from socializing. I decided to excuse myself and find something constructive to do. You’ll be amazed at how much cleaning you can get accomplished when you venture into the “apple day”.

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 11: I’ve Gained? The Menstrual Cycle is to Blame!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Up .2 lbs.

Okay, I’m officially at my edge! This morning, I weighed myself and found that I had gone UP .2 pounds. Now, I realize that a .2 pound increase doesn’t seem like much, but it’s the fact that I went up and NOT down! When you’re watching your weight so carefully, any little bit will either send you to the stars with elation, or cause you to crash, face first into depression. Not only am I bored to death with the limitations of this menu, but I’ve gained! Craziness!

This has now brought me to call the Dr. over at Derma Health Institute. There has to be a reason for this increase. Usually when you stall, you expect it to be because you snuck a Hostess cupcake or something, (oh, let me just think about that possibility for a moment…) But when you’ve been so careful to obey the rules, it’s hard to justify.

After speaking to the Dr. who got me started on the program, she explained to me that my menstrual cycle was the real culprit. Due to the fact that we, as women, experience bloating and water weight gain through this time of the month, it stands to reason that we would see a suspension in weight loss. If you stall during this time, don’t panic! (like I did). I was also told that after my cycle has ended, I should see that weight (stored up) drop quickly. That better be true! I’d like to stay focused on my goal.

Due to the fact that I had already gotten into my menu that day, she told me that I could break this stall by having an “apple day.” Tomorrow, I’ve been instructed to eat 6 apples. That’s it, you heard me, 6 apples! By only having water and apples throughout the day, my body should be able to re-adjust itself to the ‘losing state’ once again. Gee, I can hardly wait. Also important, the Dr. told me to lay off of the HCG injections for the first two days of my period. The already existing HCG hormones will be able to stay in your system throughout those two days and won’t interfere with the weight loss program.

So…six yummy apples to look forward to. I can barely contain my excitement. There aren’t too many ways to make an apple creatively appetizing. I guess it’s just one of those things I’ll have to suffer through. I can’t imagine not having protein that day; or thinking that my hunger pangs will not rear their ugly heads. Six apples…here we go…

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 10: Back to Normal…Whew!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 1.6 lbs.

This morning, I woke with serious anticipation. I’m down 1.6 pounds. Hooray!! Maybe that extra water did the trick? I’m still concerned about my menstrual cycle approaching. I’m not sure what to expect with this. I’ve also been concerned with my lack of bowel movements. I made myself some Smooth Move last night and hopefully that will produce something. I’m not used to having such a limited, unpredictable regiment.

So, back in the swing of things:

Lunch: 3oz. grilled chicken, tomatoes, an orange and a breadstickDinner: 3oz. crab, lettuce with some light dressing (lemon and vinegar), an apple and one breadstick (oh, how I missed you little breadstick!)

I’ve increased my water intake. I forgot that I needed to compensate for my coffee drinking. So,

I’m up to almost 96oz. of water a day. Gracious! My energy level has stabilized today but my irritability is still high. Of course, yesterday, I thought my frustration couldn’t get any worse, but today, with added anxiety and anticipation regarding my cycle approaching, I realize I’m a bit on edge. But I suppose as long as I keep looking at that scale, seeing a loss, I can manage through the irritating days.

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 9: Nothing? Are You Kidding Me?

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 0 lbs.

I woke up late. Extremely late. I forgot to set the alarm last night, and was an entire hour behind. Frantically, I rushed through my morning to make it to my appointment across town. Before I left, I gave myself my injection and weighed myself. I lost nothing! Zero, nadda’, nothing!! How could this possibly be??

Ticked off and distracted, I made my way to the car and started off into the morning traffic. I began to anxiously re-trace my steps from the day before. I have been religiously committed to this diet. I haven’t cheated on my intake, I haven’t faulted by sneaking a bite of my daughters PBJ and I’ve been force-feeding myself yucky celery while drinking enough water to sink a small boat. I’ve decided to put my mind and body through this state of denial in order to fit into my jeans! Surely, there must be something wrong with the scale! Or…something else?

I called Derma Health Institute for some sliver of hope and possibly an explanation for this stall in weight loss. After they talked me down out of my emotional tree, I was re-assured that there could be some other factors involved. This stall is probably temporary and that I can re-adjust my eating today, hopefully making up for some missing poundage. True, I’m approaching my monthly cycle and true, I didn’t go through my regular morning ritual… and?? I decided to increase my water intake and lay off the breadsticks for the day. I’ll give it a try. In light of yesterday’s successes, I’ve obviously taken a front seat on an emotional roller coaster. Funny, I’m afraid of heights. Get me down from here!

Some grilled chicken for lunch along with lettuce and a make shift dressing (fresh lemon juice, seasoning and some splashes of vinegar with an orange to top it all off. For dinner: 3oz. of lean beef, tomatoes and strawberries. My calorie count is a bit less than usual, but I’m hoping I can make up for the stall in weight. We’ll see!

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 8: Oh Happy Day!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 1.4 lbs.

Energy! Energy! Energy! I can’t believe how great this day is! From the moment I woke up, I had the most energy I’ve had since I started this whole fiasco. I felt as though there was nothing that couldn’t be accomplish on this day. I’m down 1.4 pounds! The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and I am officially the queen of the world! (now I’m just waiting on all the furry creatures of the forest to come join me in song!)

My cravings are almost obsolete, my hunger has all but vacated on this day! Anything is possible!!

Lunch: 3oz. grilled shrimp, celery (gross), an apple and a breadstick
Dinner: 3oz. lean ground beef, tomatoes, strawberries and one breadstick

When deciding what to make for dinner tonight, I started craving hamburgers. Lucky me! I can eat that! I was pretty surprised when I weighed this out. I could actually make this thing look like a regular hamburger. Cool! A little seasoning and some tomatoes on the side and I felt as if I was a normal human being eating dinner with my family. Surprisingly, I didn’t even want the bun (that I couldn’t have anyway) and the extras that we pile on our burgers were no problem to deny. I’m feelin’ good!! I saved my strawberries for my late night snack. I cut them up and sprinkled some Stevia on them and savored every bite. (I could’ve eaten two bowls of this treat, but realized, I didn’t NEED to) Let’s hear it: hip, hip, hooray for me!!

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HCG Diet Day 7: Keep Shedding Those Pounds Girl!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 1.2 lbs.

This is the first day out of this experience that I haven’t felt hungry when I woke up. I actually opened the refrigerator and realized that I could say “no” to just about everything in there. It’s a great feeling! As I go through this program, I’m finding that about 90% of my struggles come from my mental state. I’ve gotten into habits of eating whatever is quick and easy instead of taking a moment to really comprehend what’s going in my mouth – and obviously, straight to my hips!

I noticed I was a little jittery this morning, so I cut my coffee down. A half of a cup and I’m pretty good to go. I experienced high energy today – hooray! I’m down another 1.2 pounds and with each day that passes, I know I can get through this while I see these kinds of results.
I had some flounder that I had prepared the night before (thinking that I’d just have this for lunch). Because it was what I had already fixed, I needed to choke this down for lunch. Yuck! I will continue to remind myself of the goal which is the one that keeps me going. And, oh yes, the water…can’t forget the water…

Lunch: 3oz flounder, cucumber (with apple cider vinegar and pinch of salt), an apple and one breadstickDinner: 3oz. chicken, tomatoes, strawberries and one breadstick My calorie intake was a little below 500, so I threw in a couple of extra strawberries. Hope that’s okay!

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 6: I Want My Food Back!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 1.4 lbs.

Okay, it’s official…I want my food back!

I can’t do this! I’m craving my daily cheese and crackers and I want a large coke from McDonalds…now! Oh yea, and could you throw in a blueberry muffin?

This morning, after I…yep…peed AGAIN, I weighed myself and injected the HCG. I’ve lost another 1.4 pounds – hooray for me!! Although I am genuinely excited about this weight loss, I have to tell you, I am seriously craving some very specific things. My body is so used to having breakfast with my daughter every morning and of course, my beloved cheese and crackers in the mid-morning, I think I’m going into shock! It’s true when they say your body craves what you give it.

This day was not good. I found myself thinking about food all day. I managed to fight my way through lunch: 3 oz of lean steak, one breadstick, an apple and half of my cucumbers (I’ll save the other half for later afternoon). By the way, if veggies are as difficult to get down for you as they are for me, you can marinate the cucumbers in some apple cider vinegar. It’s not a blueberry muffin, but you do what you have to! Don’t forget to keep suckin’ down the water! (I think I’m going to float away)

My irritability level is at it’s peak (can you tell?) It’s not necessarily hunger, but the cravings are ridiculous! I’ve got to keep pushing through this. It was great to see that weight loss this morning, but it seems like everywhere I look, there’s something I’d love to be eating at that moment. I noticed every advertisement for every restaurant today. I salivated when I passed by the fast food joints on every corner. And even packing my daughter’s lunch…oh, what I’d do for a PBJ! (and I don’t even like those!) I think it might be a good idea for the rest of the world if I stay off the road today.

Dinner came and I noticed today, for the first time, that while I’m taking care to really focus on my portioned meals, I do, in fact, have the responsibility of cooking for the rest of my family. I managed to get through the preparation but when we actually sat down to eat together, I realized I was having a hard time. Their meal: rice, grilled tuna, roasted corn and biscuits. I took time with my own meal (3 oz. of grilled beef, tomatoes and a breadstick) and did my best to visit and enjoy the family.

I finished early and excused myself from the table. I went into the bedroom and sat on the bed and began to cry. At this moment I realized how addictive food has become for me. I felt as though I could have caused bodily harm to someone unless I was able to get my hands on a biscuit! As I write this, I realize how silly it sounds to be captive to such a basic necessity. I began to understand that my body had fallen victim to this pleasure and when removed, I became short tempered and emotional. It was time to re-focus on the goal. I’m going to have to figure out a way to manage my emotions and not take any of my frustrations out on the people around me. This will be difficult, but doable. I can leave a room for a moment, get myself together, and return. I know I can get through these changes; I just need to keep reminding myself that I want this weight loss more than I want a blueberry muffin.

I can do this.

So here we go, into the evening; an orange, some more mineral water and sleep. I’ll wake tomorrow with a better attitude. I’ll wake tomorrow knowing I can get through this.

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 5: Good Morning Weight Loss

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.



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Morning Weigh In: Down 1 lb.


Good morning weight loss! Although I really fought through my day yesterday, I realized that I lost 1 more pound – yippee! Normally, I’d like to celebrate with a trip to Dairy Queen – hee, hee!
This morning I realized that I can actually get through this. I’ve adopted a new attitude and am ready to face the challenge! Nothing is going to stop me now! Oh wait, tonight is “tree decorating night”. Crap! That means the traditional lasagna meal followed by desert and hot cocoa as we enjoy the evening together as a family. Darn it!! Okay, okay, I can manage through this day. I refuse to have another day like yesterday.


Mid morning, I ate ½ of my apple to tide me over until lunch. Surprisingly, I find I have a lot of extra energy today. That’s good seeing as that I have a lot of organizing to do for our family night tonight. Keep on drinking that yummy water!! Speaking of water consumption… I went out and bought a water bottle that has ounces printed on the side. This is mentally helpful because I can just count the number of bottles I need to have and spread them out during the day. It makes it a little more tolerable.


Lunch consisted of 3 oz of steak, the rest of my apple, ½ of my cucumbers and my lonely, little breadstick. (I realized that I’ve never eaten a breadstick so slowly – enjoying every teeny, tiny bite). I finished up my cucumbers around 2pm and besides my usual water intake, I started in on my mineral water. Funny, I wasn’t too hungry today. I think it may be because I was so busy with things around the house. But the thought of preparing that huge lasagna for tonight is starting to get scary!


Although I could make dinners in my sleep (I’ve been doing this long enough) I’ve gotten into the habit of tasting it throughout the preparation; seems normal and harmless enough. However, by the time I’m done making the dinner, I find I’m rarely hungry for it when I sit down to eat. Maybe I’m doing a little too much harmless tasting?


I managed to get through making the lasagna (did I mention, pasta is on my “favorites” list?) and finished the garlic bread and salad. Ironically, by the time we sat down to eat, I was managing things pretty well. I was actually proud of myself and refused to excuse myself early. I needed to get through this like a normal human being. The first few bites of my 3 oz. of flounder (cooked with lemon juice, dill and garlic salt) accompanied by my asparagus seemed to be going down just fine. But after a minute or two I realized something…I hate flounder. It was mushy. I don’t think I’ll be making this again. I usually love fish, but I now realized there’s a reason why I never make this particular fish. Yick! I choked the rest of it down and finished off my water intake with the final 20 ounces needed for the day. I’ll save my orange for later tonight. It’s become my new late night treat!


After a while, we began to decorate the tree and I made cocoa for the kids. I decided to have some hot tea and at least look as though I was joining them in our usual tradition. I chose to have some Smooth Move tea because I feel as though my bowel movements aren’t as regular recently. Ooh, bowel movements -- and you thought this journal entry would be boring!
Just a note: if you drink the Smooth Move, be careful about how long it steeps. The longer you let it set, the more effective it becomes. I usually only steep this for about 3-4 minutes.
A big sigh of relief hit me as I enjoyed my orange on this night. I turned on the news, settled into bed and it dawned on me that I had not slammed any cabinets. I hadn’t stomped throughout the house or verbally attacked anyone today! In fact, I was pretty damn pleasant! A far cry from 24 hours ago!


- Gina


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HCG Diet Day 4: Actual Weight Loss? No Way!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Morning Weigh In: Down 3.4 lbs.

Woke up this morning, rushed to the bathroom and…you guessed it…had to go AGAIN! I weighed myself and low and behold… I lost 3.4 pounds! Yippee!! So that means I dropped those stupid two pounds I put on during “loading” and then lost another 1.4 pounds to boot! Okay, maybe this is actually going to work!

I will say that my hunger levels are rising. The morning was difficult but the evening was better than the day before. I think my body is in a little state of shock; healthier food, less intake and re-adjusting itself. The water thing is killin’ me! I feel like I’m inflicting a sort of ‘self-drowning’ on myself. And while we’re on the subject of liquids…It’s been a mental re-adjustment to not have cream in my coffee. I decided to go out and buy some real quality coffee so that drinking it black will be a bit more enjoyable. I’ll live.

The meal preparation is interesting. I have to take a lot of extra time to think things through. I have to actually prepare and consider seasoning, elimination of oils and carefully weighing out my portions. This has been a real plus mentally. It slows me down so that I’m actually contemplating my meals. Having kids in the house, it’s so easy to just grab the first thing I see and run out the door. This way, I have to slow down and think about it. I’ve also become slow to eat. Because of the limited amount of food, I’m taking more time to chew, enjoy and digest.

My energy level seemed low today. No headaches or real irritability, but I felt a little sluggish. I think I need to concentrate on spreading out my meals so that I don’t get so tired. Again, this helps in slowing down and taking my time to consider what I’m eating. It’s all good.

Lunch was some beef cooked with tomatoes, garlic salt and pepper – add some water to boil down and make it tender. Not bad. I had ½ of my fruit (an apple) and my cherished breadstick. I finished my other ½ of the apple during late afternoon and by the time I got to dinner, I was feeling pretty good. Dinner actually turned out to be quite yummy! 3 oz. of chicken on the grill (I squeezed some lemon and added some dill and garlic salt). I also cooked up some asparagus with salt and pepper and I’ve got to admit, it was pretty tasty. I think by dividing either my fruit or veggie to spread out some food for snacks, I can manage. I’ll save my orange for a late night snack. I think I can do this!

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 3: Scale Shock!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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I’m two pounds heavier from my loading days. Yikes! I’m looking forward to seeing those two pounds melt away. Ironically, I woke up this morning and felt a little hungry. How can that possibly be? My skin crawls when I think of all of the food I shoved in my mouth for the past two days. If I never see another doughnut again…

Today there has been a lot of anticipation and excitement. I’m eager to do this exactly right. Weighing, measuring and counting – I want to make sure there is absolutely no cheating!! It’s mentally difficult to switch from splurging one day to only eating 500 calories the next. Fortunately, I’m busy today and I can keep my mind on other things.

I decided to go through this diet program with Derma Health Institute. They gave me all of the tools I would need to make this successful. Included in their supplies is a daily log so that I can keep track of my calorie intake as well as gauge my levels for cravings, hunger, energy etc. There’s also a nice margin on the page so that I can vent! After reviewing the foods I am allowed to eat, I realized right away that the veggie list as well as the fruit list is a bit limiting for me (they’re not my favorites). But if I get really creative, I can make it work.

The HCG injections made me nervous. I absolutely hate needles and although I’ve never had a traumatic experience with this, there is this underline fear that goes with needles, blood and icky medical stuff. I’ve gotta’ tell you, this is all mental! The actual injection is literally, nothing. If I wasn’t actually looking at the injection, I’m sure I’d have no idea it was even happening. So, a quick injection after my weigh-in and I’m all set to go!

Because of the anticipation of this new challenge, my morning was tolerable.

No breakfast, but around 10:30 am, I started to feel a little hungry. I had ½ of my apple to tide me over until lunch. Lunch arrived and I had 3oz. of shrimp along with my other apple half and ½ of my cucumber allotment. Oh yes, and don’t forget my one Grissini breadstick! I will say that these are delicious! The unfortunate thing about them is that they’re so delicious, I could eat about ten of em’.

Late afternoon and into the evening I began getting hungry…again. I grabbed the remaining ½ of my cucumbers and downed a big glass of mineral water. The important thing to know about mineral water is that by itself it’s…gross! However, add a few drops of flavored Stevia and it’s pretty good! The carbonation tricked my stomach into thinking it was full. Flavored mineral water is my new best friend.

The one thing that is a little annoying is the water intake. Basically, you divide your weight in half and drink that amount of water in ounces per day. Sheesh! I feel like I’m swishing around all day besides the fact that I’m going to the bathroom constantly!!

But, I’m on my way and the first day is done. I’m fighting through some hunger, but I keep reminding myself of the goal. Hopefully, this will work and I’ll see some real results in the morning.

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 2: Please Make the Eating Stop!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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Please, make the eating stop!

I fell out of bed this morning and realized that the eating binge I had shamelessly participated in the day before was in fact, not a dream. I began to recall all of the things I had put into my body and began making a face that surely would have scared small children. I was sick of eating. I never thought that would happen in a million years, but the moment actually arrived when I looked down the barrel of this enviable breakfast time and shuttered. One more full day of eating. A whole 24 hours of force feeding myself to the point of exhaustion. Really? Is this really going to work? Well, it better, because at this point, I’m on my way to gaining 5 more pounds.

Lovely.

I continued to push through the day. A bagel with cream cheese that morning with some more pancakes… extra syrup. Cheese and crackers, chips and some hummus with pita bread would top off my mid morning snack. Ugh! Make it stop! I have to admit, at this point, I simply couldn’t do it anymore. I really thought I’d be sick. So I decided to end this madness for a few hours and wait until late afternoon to even think about food. 4 o’clock hit and I realized it had been a whole 4 hours since I stuffed my face. So here goes: I put a movie in and decided to lay on the couch with my Thanksgiving left-overs. Some turkey and stuffing should do it.

Around 6pm, my husband took me out to our usual haunt for dinner. Let’s see, I’m starving right?? I ordered a coke (refills on this of course) with a large plate of potato skins – loaded. I thought…go out big right? I couldn’t finish the plate. I tried, believe me I did, but to no avail. Once again, with my top button on my jeans bursting, we left the restaurant.

I collapsed onto the couch and thought, “just leave me here to die!” But after a few hours, I was back at it again. Something sweet perhaps. Some chocolate ice cream? Gee…yum. The evening went on and the hour was approaching midnight. One last hurrah was definitely in order. My husband and I proceeded to the nearest McDonalds drive-thru. A cheeseburger meal and a coke should do the trick. Why not?? My sanity was already on it’s way out, I might as well give it the final push. Our neighborhood McDonald’s closes at midnight. Great! We got in just under the wire! To my exhausted delight, we were informed that because we were the last customers, we could have the rest of the french fries the workers had made. Sure! Why not? As we paid for the food, we were handed a huge bag. In it? You guessed it! 6 large fries! You’ve got to be kidding me. I’ll tell you what, this diet better work.

That night, I could barely move. If I had to shift at all during the night, I seriously thought something might pop. But, tomorrow would be another day. A day of conscious ‘under’eating. A day of counting calories and weigh-ins and details. Thank God that day was approaching. I don’t think I could do this for one more second.

I was told that if I loaded up properly that I shouldn’t experience any hunger pangs for my first day or two on the diet. Hope that's true!!

- Gina

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HCG Diet Day 1: HCG Loading Days…Hooray!!

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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What a great plan! On the HCG diet, you spend the first two days “loading up” on all of the foods you love but always feel so guilty eating. Your body stores this fat and basically ‘feeds’ on it during your low calorie diet. I’ve got to admit, when I heard I could spend 2 whole days loading up on all of my favorite foods, I got all tingly inside! Being able to throw all caution to the wind, ignore all labels and completely indulge in as many carbs as I could handle, brought the biggest smile to my face! Let’s see, what are some good loading days?... Thanksgiving, of course! The one day of the year where it’s not only acceptable to gorge, but expected of the most serious of holiday-ers. And the second day? Left-overs!! What could be better?

I started out the day with a big breakfast. A nice fluffy omelet with cheese, veggies and ham, a side of toast and then, when my daughter decided to make some pancakes, I thought “why not?” As the day pressed on, we ventured into the real holiday food: I began stuffing myself like never before. First, the appetizer table. Cheese and crackers, deviled eggs, those yummy little mushroom caps and don’t forget the spinach artichoke dip with bread and chips. Oh, that this day would never end!

Once dinner came around, I must admit I was feeling a little fatigued. But I pressed forward, drowning myself in turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing and dinner rolls – hooray! At this point I was feeling as though I would literally roll right out of the place, when I forced another smaller helping down. It’s Thanksgiving…you’ve gotta have seconds – it’s the rule!
It was at this point, in the middle of my second helping, I realized there is such a thing as ‘over-eating’.

As the day went on, dishes were being cleared and the coffee was being made which only means one thing…desert. Okay, I can do this, I can do this. The endless buffet of pies, cookies and cakes made their entrance. I took a deep breath, unbuttoned my jeans and dug in. A piece of pie, a couple of cookies… and then… I had to stop. I just couldn’t do it anymore.

But, I successfully stuffed myself until there was no more room to be filled. I think I could take a couple of hours off and just rest. After all, I had earned it! Later that night, I broke out the left-overs. Another moment of pure eating and then I’d lay my head to rest. It’s been a busy day. Calories, carbohydrates and sugar – so much to eat and only one day left to eat it! I crawled into bed that night…slowly. The ‘beached whale’ metaphor had successfully made it to my bedroom. I would wear this label proudly, but I have to tell you, my excitement for this whole ‘loading day’ concept was fading -- and fast.

That once, tingly feeling I had was positively being replaced with one that is best described as a nauseous cringe. The thought of putting one more piece of food in my mouth… Lord, help me.

- Gina

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Begining the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet

Join Gina, a new Derma Health Institute client, all this month on her journey through the HCG Ultimate Fat Burning Diet. Learn about her exeriences in her detailed journal on the ups and downs of this extraordinary diet.

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I’m never going to be this weight again.

About a month ago, I took out my winter clothes. After pulling, stretching and squeezing into my jeans, I realized that between the summer bbq’s, the over-the-sink eating and midnight snacks, I had put on about fifteen pounds just in the summer months alone. No wonder I never wanted to put on my bathing suit in public.

I began buying oversized shirts, wearing a lot of sweatpants and putting on anything that was elastic. I found myself going into my husbands’ closet for t-shirts. Usually when I would do this, I was just trying to bum-out at night and be comfy, but now, I actually needed the extra room. My stomach had ballooned out so much that I couldn’t button my jeans if you had offered me a million dollars.

After showering that morning, I took a good look at myself in the mirror. A real good look. You see, I had gotten into a system with myself, ignoring my weight gain. I’d suck in my gut in public, I’d wear black pants that were loose and flowing, I’d concentrate more on my hair and makeup in hopes of distracting the people around me. Anything I could do to convince myself that I wasn’t gaining a pound. As I finished getting ready for my day, I realized that I had begun to softly cry.

Enough.

I’ve never been thin and have always had to carefully watch my weight. Sweets were never the real enemy with me, but carbs and starches became absolute death when trying to reach any weight loss goal. A big bowl of cereal at night, a second helping of potatoes, and we can’t forget the chips and crackers! I stayed away from scales and pretended to gauge myself based on the fit of my clothes. Now, I was the heaviest I’d ever been. That day, I made a commitment to myself that I would never be this weight again.

The days that followed, I realized that I would have to do something immediately. I couldn’t afford liposuction and wasn’t really sure I wanted to go through that type of invasive surgery anyway. I had heard of the HCG diet but was a bit nervous about putting myself on such a low calorie intake. I worried about energy levels, hunger pangs, headaches, and of course, missing my beloved pasta and potatoes (okay, maybe that was my biggest worry). Even though I was nervous about beginning such a stringent diet, I knew that I was at the end of my rope and was determined to do whatever it took to feel good about myself again.

You see, many times the people around us who love us, don’t really see the weight that we ourselves obsess about. The one or two pounds here and there don’t matter to them. My husband has become a saint in this area. I know, beyond any doubt, that he genuinely loves me just the way I am. My kids are the same way. None of them see any reason for me to go on this diet. But I do. And I’m the one who has to love myself first. If dropping 15-20 pounds is going to make me feel good about myself, than so be it.

I’ve realized that a lot of our self-esteem is birthed from our past. I come from a family who loves me, I have friends that are true to me and a marriage that beats them all. However, in the midst of all of this, I realized, growing up, that I was always the one in my circle that was carrying the most weight. I tried to stay physically active and never binged in my eating. I’m not obese. I don’t have an eating disorder and there’s nothing wrong with my thyroid. Friends and family look at me strangely when I express any concern about my weight. “You’re not over-weight!” or “You look good, don’t worry about it!” or how about, “Oh, please, you’re fine!” and my personal favorite, “We love you just the way you are!" I do appreciate their encouragement and sincerely love the fact that they love me. But if only they could see what I’m really hiding underneath this over-sized sweatshirt!

Now thirty-five years old, my weight has settled. I’m carrying around a constant bulge in my waist that conveniently falls over into two or three rolls, and my metabolism feels like it’s gone into permanent hibernation. I exercise about 3 times a week and don’t really see any significant result. I’ve had enough.

After attending the free Derma Health Institute seminar today, I have decided to go ahead with the HCG diet. From what I’ve been reading, this 27 day diet has the results I’m looking for -- and fast. Although I will be saying farewell to my potatoes, my guacamole, my fast food and my good friend spaghetti, I know I’ll be able to do this. I’ll be journaling my experience throughout this next month. I’ll let you know how I’m doing and what I’m feeling. I’ll keep you up to date on the days I feel good and the days where I think I might have to kill someone. I’ve had enough and it’s time to get things started.

You know, I keep looking at myself in the mirror as I get out of the shower each day and I can see what I used to be. It’s there, somewhere underneath the years of complacency and lack of will. It’s there somewhere. I know I can be a healthier weight again. I know that I can feel good about myself again. And hopefully, at the end of all of this… I’ll go shopping!

- Gina

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Skin Script Launches New Acai Berry Moisturizer to Skin Care Product Line

Skin Script Skin Care Products, a Tempe, AZ distributor of clinical grade skin care products, launched a new skin care moisturizer today containing the Acai Berry from the Amazon Rain Forest. The berry has been touted as the new "Super Food" by health and fitness publications everywhere. Researchers have found that, among many other medical and cosmetic benefits, acai berries contain extremely high concentrations of antioxidants which have been shown to combat the signs of premature aging. Lisa VanBockern, owner and founder, states “I’m constantly searching for the latest in anti-aging ingredients. The acai berry could be the most potent antioxidant available; let’s get it in a moisturizer!”

The new Skin Script Acai Berry Moisturizer is a nourishing, vitamin-packed moisturizer for all skin types. This moisturizer provides incredible hydration leaving the skin feeling very soft. Antioxidants protect from environmental damage while relieving the surface signs of aging. Co-Q10 stimulates collagen to minimize fine lines.

Acai Berry Moisturizer Benefits:

• Rich in Vitamins B, C & E
• Excellent antioxidant properties of the Acai Berry
• Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties
• Promotes healing and collagen synthesis

About Skin Script

Skin Script is a professional product line that specializes in clinical-grade skin care products for all skin types. The line was developed by two doctors and four aestheticians who saw the need for a complete skin care line that included retinols, glycolics, antioxidants and natural lighteners that can be used on a daily basis by all skin types and all ethnicities. Skin Script achieves the noticeable results people want, without harsh irritation to the skin. The developers of Skin Script have also recognized the need for advanced back bar products for aestheticians to attain remarkable results for their professional treatments. Enzymes, masks, and peels were developed to complete the Skin Script experience, leaving clients with glowing, youthful skin.

Click here to view or purchase Skin Script Acai Berry Moisturizer.