Disodium EDTA

EDTA, Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid is a molecule which complexes metal ions in aqueous environments. It is available in four neutralizations, two of which, Disodium EDTA and Tetrasodium EDTA, are commonly used in cosmetics. Generally, the choice of which product to use is determined by the intended pH of your product. Disodium EDTA is commonly used in neutral to mildly acidic products, like most creams, lotions, and neutral pH liquid soaps and shampoos.

EDTA catalyzes metal ions, which can be present in any water-based system. These metal ions can react with formulation ingredients causing problems, including:

Spoilage and rancidity
Degradation of vitamins and essential fatty acids
Fragrance degradation,
Discoloration
Haze formation and precipitation
Poor foaming and rinsability performance.
EDTA also works synergistically with your preservative to improve preservative efficacy.

INCI: Disodium EDTA

Chelating agents should be added to the water phase of formulations early in the formulating process so product degradation can be prevented before it begins. EDTA chelating agents are only soluble in aqueous solutions and have only limited solubility in acidic media below pH 3.5.

Disodium EDTA has good solubility in water, but can take time to fully dissolve (15 – 30 minutes, or longer, depending on concentration). At a typical usage rate of 0.2% to improve preservative efficacy, even if not fully solubilized prior to incorporating it into your formulation, it is still efficacious. In creams or lotions, there will be no grittiness and it will not be seen. In clear or transparent gel, serum, or clear surfactant systems, use Tetrasodium EDTA, which is highly soluble in water. At low usage rates, it will not raise the pH unduly, but if it does, you can simply lower the pH of your formulation with a citric acid solution.

Recommended Usage Rate: 0.1-0.3%
Appearance: Powder
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place protected from humidity.
Shelf-Life: 24 months from date of manufacture