Metal ion chelator that stabilizes cosmetic formulas. Binds traces of iron and copper that enter the product through water or raw materials and accelerate oxidation.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Formula stabilizer without biological activity in the skin. Typical cosmetic concentration is 0.1–0.2%, which the CIR deems safe.
Disodium EDTA is a synthetic metal ion chelator. EDTA – ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, discovered in 1935, used in medicine for heavy metal poisoning (Pb, Hg). In cosmetics – a functional stabilizer. Mechanism. Binds iron, copper, calcium, magnesium ions that enter formulas with water and raw materials. Without chelation these ions catalyze oxidation of oils and actives, cause cloudiness and emulsion instability, accelerate microbial growth. Disodium EDTA boosts preservation system efficacy and extends product shelf life. Where applied. Almost all cosmetic formulas with a water phase: creams, lotions, shampoos, shower gels, masks, cleansers. Concentration 0.05-0.3%. In Spain – present in the vast majority of mass-market and niche formulas. Evidence base. A functional component with many years of use. Chelation and stabilization efficacy confirmed in standard formulation tests. No active skin pharmacology. Safety and controversies. CIR confirmed Disodium EDTA safe in cosmetic use. Non-comedogenic, non-sensitizing, allergic reactions extremely rare. The controversy is environmental: EDTA degrades poorly in the environment and accumulates in water bodies. Manufacturers are developing alternatives (etidronic acid, GLDA, IDS), but Disodium EDTA remains the gold standard due to efficacy and low cost. Pregnancy and lactation – safe at standard cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through intact skin is low. Best suited to: any skin type. One of the most neutral functional components in cosmetics.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Disodium EDTA is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Disodium EDTA suits: oily, dry, sensitive, combination, normal.
Metal ion chelator that stabilizes cosmetic formulas.
The INCI name is Disodium EDTA. It may also appear as: EDTA Disodium Salt, Disodium Ethylenediaminetetraacetate, Динатрия ЭДТА.
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