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TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE

Last update on Jan 12, 2026

Trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate (EDTA-3Na) is a water-soluble compound commonly used in the cosmetic industry as a chelating agent. It works by binding to metal ions, such as calcium and iron, thereby preventing them from causing undesirable reactions that may impact product texture and stability. Trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate helps to keep cosmetic products looking and performing their best. It has a white or slightly yellow appearance in powder form, and its chemical formula is C₁₀H₁₆N₂O₈. Its ability to sequester metal ions makes it an essential ingredient in many cosmetic formulations, especially those that contain surfactants or preservatives.

CAS Number: 20846-91-7 / 178949-82-1Chem/IUPAC Name: L-Aspartic acid, N,N'-1,2-ethanediylbis-, trisodium saltEINECS/ELINCS No: COSING REF No: 59889

Products with TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE

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Gosurf SLI-30

by Jan Dekker

INCI: SODIUM LAUROYL METHYL ISETHIONATE | TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE | SODIUM BENZOATE | AQUA

Sustainable option

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VANILLA MILK GNCN

by Provital

Sustainable option

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Natrlquest® E30

by Innospec

INCI: TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE

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What is TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE used for?

Trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate is widely used in the personal care industry due to its ability to sequester metal ions and prevent them from causing negative effects on product stability and performance.

Skin care: It is used to improve the efficacy of products like cleansers and moisturizers. By binding with metal ions that can interfere with the performance of active ingredients, EDTA-3Na can help improve the absorption and effectiveness of these products
Hair care: It improves the performance and stability of these formulations. It helps to remove hard water minerals and other impurities that can cause hair damage, while also helping to enhance the effectiveness of conditioning agents

Origin

Trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate is synthesized from ethylenediamine, sodium hydroxide, and succinic acid. The reaction involves the condensation of ethylenediamine and succinic acid, followed by the addition of sodium hydroxide to form the trisodium salt. The resulting compound is then purified to produce the final product.

What does TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE do in a formulation?

CHELATING

Safety Profile

Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate is deemed safe for cosmetic use by the CIR Expert Panel (2023) at concentrations up to 0.64%, with low irritation, sensitization, and toxicity risks across 199+ formulations (VCRP data). EWG rates it low hazard, noting minimal concerns for absorption or organ effects. Well-tolerated in rinse-off/leave-on products; impurities like aspartic acid are negligible. Patch testing advised for sensitive skin. EU COSING approves it as a chelating agent. Lastly, this ingredient is vegan and halal.