Disodium EDTA

Q: What is Disodium EDTA used for in cosmetics?

Disodium EDTA is used as a chelating agent in cosmetics to stabilize and improve the efficacy of the products by binding with metal ions, preventing them from affecting the product quality.

Q: Does Disodium EDTA cause skin irritation?

While generally considered safe, Disodium EDTA may cause minor skin irritation in individuals with sensitive skin when used at high concentrations.

Q: Is Disodium EDTA environmentally hazardous?

Disodium EDTA has raised environmental concerns due to its persistence in the environment and its ability to bind heavy metals, potentially affecting aquatic life.

Q: Can Disodium EDTA penetrate the skin?

Disodium EDTA is not easily absorbed through the skin, which reduces the risk of systemic exposure when used in cosmetic formulations.

CAS: 139-33-3 | Synonyms: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid Disodium Salt, EDTA Disodium, Disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate +2

Safer alternative: Sodium Citrate

Toxicity Score

3 /10

Lower Risk

Primary Concern

Skin irritation in sensitive individuals

Found In

Facial Cleansers, Moisturizers, Shampoos

Persona Risk

Medium Risk for Wellness & Longevity

Put Simply

Disodium EDTA helps keep skincare and hair products stable by preventing the ingredients from breaking down. It's usually safe to use, but if you have sensitive skin, it might cause a bit of irritation. The bigger worry is that it doesn't break down easily in the environment, so it could cause some issues with water pollution over time.

Clinical Summary

Disodium EDTA is commonly used in cosmetics and skincare products as a chelating agent to improve product stability. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations, although it may cause minor skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Environmental concerns have been raised due to its persistence and potential to bind with heavy metals in waterways.

Identified Health Risks

Skin irritation in sensitive individuals

Environmental toxicity

What This Score Means

Lower Risk. This ingredient scores 3/10. Generally considered safer, though individual sensitivities may vary. Always check with your healthcare provider for specific concerns.

Regulatory Status

Cross-referenced safety assessments from regulatory bodies

Organization

Rating

Concern

EWG

Environmental persistence and potential skin sensitivity

ECHA

Low concern

Not classified as a hazardous substance

Also Listed On Labels As

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid Disodium Salt EDTA Disodium Disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate Disodium EDTA-2Na Sequestering agent

Risk by Health Profile

Wellness & Longevity Medium Risk

Its persistence in the environment raises concerns regarding aquatic toxicity.

Skin & Allergy Low Risk

Disodium EDTA may cause minor skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Disodium EDTA used for in cosmetics?

Does Disodium EDTA cause skin irritation?

Is Disodium EDTA environmentally hazardous?

Can Disodium EDTA penetrate the skin?

Sources & Citations

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