Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Chelating agent based on glutamic acid. A biodegradable alternative to EDTA: binds heavy-metal ions and stabilizes the formula.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is a chelating agent produced from L-glutamic acid and acetic acid with sodium neutralization. INCI: Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, often shortened to GLDA. Its main function is to bind metal ions (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Fe³⁺) in the formula. This stabilizes the preservation system, extends shelf life, and improves mild surfactant performance in hard water. Typical use concentration is 0.1% to 1%. Found in face washes, shampoos, micellar waters, toners, and creams. Advantage over EDTA. Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is biodegradable (>60% in 28 days per OECD 301B), while ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) is essentially non-biodegradable. Chelation efficiency is comparable, so modern eco-certified brands switch to GLDA. Pregnancy safety. Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is considered safe during pregnancy. Does not penetrate intact skin and has no systemic activity. The molecule is large and hydrophilic. Skin safety. Low irritation and low allergen risk. Non-comedogenic. Patch-test reactions are rare. Regulatory status. EFSA-approved as a food additive, listed without restrictions in the EU Cosmetic Regulation annex. CIR reviewed safety with a positive verdict. Bottom line. Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is a modern biodegradable chelator. Pregnancy-safe, an eco-friendly EDTA replacement, effective from 0.1%.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate safe during pregnancy?
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate for?
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Chelating agent based on glutamic acid.
What's the INCI name for Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate?
The INCI name is Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate. It may also appear as: GLDA.
See Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Thiamine Diphosphate, Thiolactic Acid, Tin Oxide, Carbonated Water, Glyceryl Laurate, PEG-10 Phytosterol, PPG-5-Ceteth-20
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