EDTA

EDTA is a cosmetic ingredient used as a chelating agent. It is used in 276 products in our dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex). PubMed carries 1,581 studies of its skin or topical use.

INCI nameEDTA
FunctionCHELATING
CAS number60-00-4
EC number200-449-4
Prevalence276 products (0.3% of dataset)
Most used inSkincare
EU statusRestricted (annex )
Scientific studies1,581 on PubMed (skin/cosmetic/topical)
Monthly searches18,100

Used in

Face Cleansers 13.4%Serums 12.3%General Moisturizers 8.3%Body Washes 8%Conditioners 6.9%Toners 6.2%

Frequently asked

What does EDTA do in skincare?
EDTA functions as a chelating agent in cosmetic formulas.
Is EDTA allowed in cosmetics?
Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
What products contain EDTA?
It is most commonly found in Skincare products, especially face cleansers (13.4% of its uses).

Manufacturers with experience using EDTA

Match with vetted US contract manufacturers that have hands-on experience formulating with this ingredient.