Determination of EDTA in Cosmetic Products: Safety and Quality Analysis

EDTA (ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid) in Cosmetic Products

What is the Role and Importance of EDTA in Cosmetic Products?

EDTA (ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid) is used in the production of many products such as household detergents, industrial and institutional detergents, photochemicals, textiles, cellulose and paper, metal coating, agriculture, cosmetics, rubber processing, petroleum production. EDTA (ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid) and its salts used as chelating agents in the cosmetics industry are substituted diamines. The general use concentration of EDTA is less than 2%. The daily usage amount is determined as 750 mg/kg/day against toxic effect. EDTA (ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid) used for chelating is cytotoxic and weakly genotoxic, but not carcinogenic.

• Improving Stability: EDTA prevents chemical reactions and oxidation in products by binding metal ions.
• Strengthening Preservative Systems: EDTA increases the effectiveness of preservatives and controls microbial growth.
• Foam and Color Stability: Maintains foam and color stability in hair shampoos, facial cleansers and other cosmetic products.

Since EDTA (ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid) used in cosmetic products is absorbed through the skin, chelating may cause absorption of other chemicals through the skin. Although it has been determined in some studies that it is safe for use in cosmetic products, conscious consumers prefer EDTA (ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid) free products.

EDTA Determination with ASTM D 1767 Standard

ASTM D 1767 is applied to determine the amount of EDTA and its derivatives in cosmetic formulations. This standardized method is used for quality control of products and to ensure compliance with regulations.

Main Steps of the Test

1. Sample Preparation: An appropriate amount of sample is taken from cosmetic products and a homogeneous mixture is obtained with the help of solvent.
2. Determination of Titratable EDTA: EDTA concentration is determined by titration methods based on the principle of complex formation with metal ions.
3. Chemical Analysis Techniques:
• Complexometric Titration: Widely used to determine the amount of EDTA in free form.
• UV-Vis Spectroscopy: Used to measure the absorption values of EDTA-metal ion complexes.
4. Evaluation of Results: The values obtained are compared with the amount of EDTA prescribed in the formulation of the product.

Why is EDTA Determination Important?

• Regulatory Compliance: The amount of EDTA used in cosmetic products must comply with national and international standards.
• Consumer Safety: Excessive use of EDTA can have adverse effects on the skin and the environment.
• Ensuring Product Quality: Increases stability, extends the shelf life of the product and maintains the efficacy of the formulation.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of EDTA Determination in Cosmetic Products. We also provide services in Detergent Analysis.

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