Disodium Edta
Also known as Disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, Edetate disodium, EDTA disodium salt, Disodium edetate, Na2EDTA
“CIR Expert Panel says: safe as used in cosmetics.”
Disodium EDTA (disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate; CAS 139-33-3) is a chelating agent used in cosmetic formulations at typical concentrations of 0.05-0.2% to sequester divalent metal ions (Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe2+, Cu2+) and improve formulation stability, prevent discoloration, enhance the activity of preservatives, and reduce soap scum. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel assessed EDTA and its salts (including disodium EDTA) and concluded they are safe as used in cosmetic formulations, with the assessment published in Int J Toxicol 21(Suppl 2):95-142, 2002. No concentration limits or use conditions are imposed in the QRT row. Disodium EDTA is poorly absorbed through intact skin due to its highly polar ionic character.
Chelates divalent metal ions to improve formulation stability and prevent rancidity and discoloration
Enhances the activity of preservatives by sequestering metal ions that gram-negative bacteria require
Poorly absorbed through intact skin due to high ionic polarity
CIR Expert Panel concluded safe as used in cosmetic formulations:95-142, 2002)
CIR Quick Reference Table (12/2017, revised 07/2018) - Disodium EDTA row: Finding 'S' (Safe), Citation 'IJT 21(S2):95-142, 2002'
“Disodium EDTA | S | [no detail column entry] | IJT 21(S2):95-142, 2002”— QRT-122017revised072018.pdf, p. 47