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.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Functional aminocarboxylate chelator. Safety confirmed by CIR, biodegradability confirmed by OECD tests.
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.
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.
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Biodegradable alternative to EDTA.
The INCI name is Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate. It may also appear as: EDDS, Trisodium EDDS, Тринатрия EDDS.
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