Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Biodegradable alternative to EDTA. A chelator – binds metal ions (iron, copper, calcium), preventing oxidation of sensitive ingredients: vit C, polyphenols, retinoids. Used in clean formulas instead of classic EDTA, which biodegrades poorly.
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, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate (EDDS) is a biodegradable alternative to EDTA. Made enzymatically from aspartic acid. Biodegrades 60-80% in water within 28 days – orders of magnitude faster than EDTA. Mechanism. A chelator – binds metal ions (iron, copper, calcium) into stable, inactive complexes. Prevents oxidation of sensitive components: vitamin C, polyphenols, retinoids, essential oils. Also boosts preservative efficacy by tying up trace metals that bacteria need for growth. Where applied. Clean formulas, eco-certified cosmetics (Ecocert, COSMOS), laundry powders, and dishwashing products. In skincare – in La Roche-Posay, Bioderma, Caudalie, Weleda lines. Use levels: 0.05-0.5%. Evidence base. Functional ingredient. Schowanek 1996 showed biodegradation and low aquatic toxicity. Chelator efficacy is comparable to EDTA at pH 4-9. Safety. CIR confirmed safety in 2014. Non-sensitising, non-comedogenic. Safe for aquatic ecosystems – unlike EDTA, which accumulates in rivers and lakes. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Topical systemic absorption is minimal.
Frequently asked questions
Is Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate safe during pregnancy?
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate for?
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Biodegradable alternative to EDTA.
What's the INCI name for Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate?
The INCI name is Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate. It may also appear as: EDDS, Trisodium EDDS.
See Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Starch, Tromethamine, Tropolone, Undecane, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Hydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin), PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, Silica
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