At a glance
- CAS number
- 139-33-3
- INCI name
- Disodium EDTA
- Function
- chelator, preservative booster, stabilizer
- Typical use level
- 0.01%–0.2%
- Solubility
- water
- Stable pH
- 4–9
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
EDTA disodium salt Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt Disodium EDTA Disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate EDTA 2Na ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid disodium salt EDTAdisodiumsalt Dissolvine NA2P EDTA disodium salt, 95% ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid disodium salt Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt BP
Compatibility
Works well with:
Parabens Phenoxyethanol Sodium Benzoate Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Glycerin Carbomer Xanthan Gum Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) Retinol
Use caution with:
Calcium-rich hard water Zinc Oxide Titanium Dioxide (uncoated) Polyvalent metal salts Cationic surfactants (high concentration)
Disodium EDTA sequesters divalent and trivalent metal ions (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Fe²⁺, Cu²⁺), which can destabilize formulations containing metal-dependent ingredients or mineral actives like uncoated zinc oxide. It enhances the efficacy of broad-spectrum preservative systems by disrupting microbial cell membranes. At high concentrations, it may interact with cationic surfactants or cationic polymers due to charge interactions.
Formulation notes
EU Cosmetics Regulation restricts Disodium EDTA use; it is permitted but subject to environmental scrutiny due to poor biodegradability. Typical effective concentration is 0.05–0.1%. Always add to the water phase during formulation. Not considered a primary preservative on its own.
Related ingredients
- Phytic AcidChelator
- Sodium GluconateChelator
- Butylene GlycolHumectant
- Cetearyl AlcoholEmulsifier
- Cetyl AlcoholEmollient
- Citric AcidPh Adjuster