What it is
Tetrasodium EDTA is the tetrasodium salt of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, a synthetic molecule that sequesters metal ions such as calcium, iron, and copper. By binding trace metals it helps prevent them from catalyzing the breakdown of other ingredients and from interfering with surfactants and preservatives, which improves the stability and clarity of a formula. It is used at very low levels across many water-containing cosmetic and sunscreen products.
Safety & warnings
Tetrasodium EDTA is generally well tolerated at the low concentrations used in cosmetics. It is not a fragrance allergen and is not an oil, so comedogenicity is not relevant. It can act as a mild penetration enhancer for other ingredients, which is one reason it is used sparingly.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic. It is the tetrasodium salt of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA).
Questions everyone asks
What does tetrasodium EDTA do in a formula?
It is a chelating agent that binds metal ions, helping keep the product stable and preventing trace metals from degrading other ingredients.
Is it natural or synthetic?
It is synthetic, produced as the tetrasodium salt of EDTA.