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DISODIUM EDTA.

Essential CAS 139-33-3 --- 6381-92-6 / CHELATING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Disodium EDTA is a highly effective chelating agent used to bind metal ions present in formulations, preventing product degradation and enhancing the efficacy of other ingredients, particularly preservatives. This versatile ingredient significantly improves product stability, clarity, and shelf life in precision skincare formulations.

Summary

Chelating agent Preservative enhancer Stability enhancer Penetration enhancer Antimicrobial enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a chelating agent, Disodium EDTA actively sequesters metal ions like calcium, magnesium, and iron, which can otherwise destabilize cosmetic formulations, cause discoloration, or reduce the effectiveness of preservatives. This action maintains product integrity, protects delicate fragrance compounds, and prevents oxidative rancidity. Beyond stabilization, it can act as a penetration enhancer by briefly disrupting the surface of skin cells, facilitating the absorption of other beneficial ingredients. It also exhibits antimicrobial supporting properties by interfering with the cell walls of certain bacteria and yeasts, boosting overall preservative systems.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.6–0.85%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Reported as the highest concentration in leave-on products, such as hair color sprays, where it primarily enhances formula stability and boosts preservative efficacy.
  2. 02 Identified as the highest concentration in skin cleansing products, where it ensures product quality and safety by effectively binding detrimental metal ions.
  3. 03 Clinical studies indicate no significant absorption of EDTA salts through the skin; however, its ability to chelate calcium may influence the passage of other chemicals into the skin.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Disodium EDTA is a functional ingredient whose inclusion is justified by its critical roles in formulation stability and enhancement of preservative systems, rather than for 'dusting' or minimal efficacy at low percentages.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 5.5
0 7 14

Stability

Disodium EDTA is water-soluble, with a 5% solution typically having a pH between 4.0 and 5.5. Its chelating effectiveness and solubility are markedly pH-dependent, improving as the pH increases and allows for greater deprotonation, which is crucial for binding metal ions.

Synergies

  • Preservatives (enhances efficacy)
  • Other active ingredients (can enhance skin penetration)

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong bases
  • Metal ions (will bind to them, altering their intended reactivity)
  • Metal alloys

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
3%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has concluded that Disodium EDTA and its related salts are safe for use in cosmetic formulations. While clinical tests suggest no significant skin absorption, formulators should be aware of its potential to increase the penetration of other ingredients. Concerns were raised regarding potential systemic effects if aerosolized cosmetic products containing EDTA are inhaled, which is distinct from typical topical application. The FDA's withdrawal of approval for edetate disodium for *drug* use in 2008 was due to safety concerns at therapeutic systemic doses, which is not relevant to its cosmetic use where dermal absorption is minimal.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Essential

Disodium EDTA is an essential multi-functional ingredient, crucial for ensuring the stability, safety, and performance of skincare formulations by preventing metal ion interference and enhancing preservative efficacy across all skin types.

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