Deionized Water: Water with the ions removed ... it's like helping water to become an antioxidant.

Tocopherol: Also known as Vitamin E. A well-known antioxidant and skin regeneration vitamin, also used in skin care products for its moisturizing and soothing effects. Contained in all the high quality crèmes.

Malpighia Glabra: A herb, better known as Acerola, from South and Central American cherry trees. It has a high Vitamin C content. Calcium and iron are among its minerals.

Aloe Vera: This "healing plant," a member of the lily family, contains enzymes, polysaccharides and skin nutrients which exhibit antibacterial, antifungal action and astringent properties, as well as being a pain and scar inhibitor. It also has a natural sunscreen effect.

Papaver Rhoeas: Herb made from poppies, acts as an emollient and a soothing agent. Has antiseptic, antibacterial, disinfectant and astringent properties.

Vitis Vinifera: This comes from grape seed and contains vitamins and minerals which are claimed to nourish the skin. It is found in top quality crèmes costing over $200.00/oz. An important source of one of nature's most potent antioxidants - proanthocyanidins. Research has shown that proanthocyanidins (which are bioflavonoids) are anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and antiallergenic, and are major free radical scavengers. Proanthocyanidins help promote tissue elasticity, help heal injuries, reduce swelling and edema, restore collagen and improve peripheral circulation.

Placenta Extract: A natural source of collagen and rich in vitamins, enzymes and micro-nutrients. Research shows that cosmetic products containing placenta extract are probably the most effective skin care products for the regeneration of the older skin.

Panthenol: Stimulates cellular proliferation and definitely aids in tissue repair. Studies indicate that, when topically applied, panthenol penetrates the skin and is converted into pantothenic acid, a B complex vitamin. That is why it is called Pro-Vitamin B5. This action can influence the skin's natural resources of pantothenic acid.

Methylparaben: Colorless, odorless. Active against yeast and fungi.

Propylparaben: A totally inert preservative. Dr. Samuel S. Epstein M.D., who is Chairman of the Cancer Prevention Coalition, produced a book called "Unreasonable Risk - How to Avoid Toxic Ingredients in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products" in which he lists propylparaben and methylparaben as Safe Ingredients. Raiza Creme is one of the few cremes which pass Dr. Epstein's test. Most fail badly.

Green Tea: Powerfully hydrating and has antioxidant activity about 25-100 times more potent than vitamins C & E. Contains a powerful antioxidant, catechin, believed to help control aging. Helps protect the skin from free radical damage, environmental exposure and dehydration. Also found in Estee Lauders $90.00 an ounce wrinkle crème: Diminish®.

Retinol: This is pure and active Vitamin A. Another well known, synthetic form of Vitamin A is tretinoin, better known as Retin-A®. Vitamin A is one of the few substances with a small enough molecular structure to penetrate the outer layers of the skin and work to repair the lower layers of the skin where collagen and elastin reside. This allows it to repair and stimulate collagen and elastin, creating firmer, smoother skin. This is a good alternative for those with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate tretinoin. There have been plenty of televised reports that this ingredient alone makes a big difference in the various beauty creams that the market is flooded in. Some creams just sit on the skin, while certain ingredients help the leathery dead skin gently shed to reveal beautiful soft new skin.

Safflower Oil & Almond Oil: Very high in monounsaturates, very low in saturates and extremely high in polyunsaturated essential fatty acids that are essential for healthy skin metabolism. A long shelf life makes it a natural preservative.