EDTA
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Disodium EDTA, Trisodium EDTA, Tetrasodium EDTA
AKA ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid | Stabiliser used in cosmetics
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is EDTA?
EDTA is short for ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid, a stabilizer used in cosmetics to prevent ingredients in a given formula from binding with trace elements (particularly minerals) that can be present in water. EDTA also keeps other ingredients from causing unwanted changes to a product’s texture, odor, and/or consistency. Ingredients that perform this function are known as chelating agents. Common examples of EDTA ingredients are disodium EDTA and tetrasodium EDTA. See chelating agent.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2002, pages 95-142 [URL not available in source]
From the Clinic
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Take the skin quizOther forms of EDTA
These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. EDTA is the common form.
Related Ingredients
Trisodium EDTA
A water-softening and chelating agent Binds and separates metals
Cyclodextrin
Derived from cornstarch and made via biotechnology | Used in cosmetics to stabilise and help solubilize key ingredients
Dipotassium EDTA
A chelating agent that stabilises formulations and supports product efficacy
Disodium EDTA
One of the salt forms of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid | Helps enhance the stability of cosmetics formulas
Etidronic Acid
A chelating agent that helps stabilise formulations and reduce metal ion interference
Gluconic Acid
A chelating agent that stabilises formulations and may support skin texture
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