What's EDTA?
EDTA—ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid—is a synthetic compound known for its chelating properties. It is derived from ethylenediamine and formaldehyde. As a chelating agent, meaning it has the capacity to bind to metal ions and form stable complexes—to “chelate.”
In the cosmetics arena, EDTA functions is as a preservative enhancer. By binding to metal ions such as calcium, magnesium, or iron, EDTA helps to prevent the degradation of formulas. It improves the efficacy of preservatives by reducing the potential for microbial development; in the process, it extends the shelf life of products.
EDTA is used as a stabilizer and emulsifier: It helps uphold formulations by preventing the separation of different constituents, such as oil and water. This is particularly valuable in emulsions where it helps maintain a homogeneous mixture.
EDTA can improve the foaming properties of cleansing formulas such as shampoo and soap. It helps to create a lather that many value and associate with ‘clean.’
While EDTA offers benefits in cosmetics, a concern is its potential for skin irritation or sensitization, especially in people with sensitive skin. Continued or recurring exposure to EDTA can trigger allergic reactions or contact dermatitis.
From an environmental stance, use of EDTA has sparked concerns because when it enters the environment through water systems, it can form bonds with metal ions that could persist and have potential negative impacts on ecosystems. Additionally, the production and disposal of EDTA can contribute to environmental pollution.
Natural alternatives to EDTA in cosmetics include certain plant-based ingredients that possess chelating properties. For example, citric acid, originating from citrus fruits, can act as a slight chelator. Other natural substitutes include sodium phytate, derived from rice bran, or gluconic acid, derived from glucose fermentation. These alternatives offer chelation capabilities and can help stabilize formulas, though, unfortunately they may not have the same efficacy as EDTA.
As the demand for more sustainable and environmentally friendly ingredients surges, the cosmetics industry is investigating and developing new options to synthetic chelating agents like EDTA. It is important for manufacturers and consumers to consider alternatives and make informed choices that align with their preferences and values. When it comes to the values we possess at Heal Yes! and those that represent our loyal supporters, we always avoid EDTA in cosmetics.
Long-lasting formulas for health buffs
MICA-FREE OPTIONS | TITANIUM DIOXIDE-FREE OPTIONS | PHENOXYETHANOL-FREE OPTIONS | VEGAN OPTIONS | IRON OXIDE / ULTRAMARINE-FREE OPTIONS
AND HEAL YES! IS ALWAYS—
WITHOUT TALC | WITHOUT NANOPARTICLES | CARMINE-FREE | WITHOUT BHA or BHT | WITHOUT BUTYLENE GLYCOL | COAL TAR-FREE | WITHOUT PETROLEUM OR PETROLEUM BYPRODUCTS | FREE OF NYLON-12 | CRUELTY-FREE | PROPYLENE GLYCOL-FREE | WITHOUT ACRYLATES COPOLYMER | WITHOUT EDTA | WITHOUT FD&C BLUE 1, FD&C RED 40 + MORE (SYNTHETIC AZO) DYES
| WITHOUT FORMALDEHYDE-RELEASING PRESERVATIVES | WITHOUT GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS (GMOS) | PARABEN-FREE | PARAFFIN-FREE | WITHOUT PARFUM / PERFUMES / SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES | WITHOUT SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE | NO TRICLOSAN | WITHOUT TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA) | WITHOUT UREA...
...PLUS THOUSANDS OF INGREDIENTS BEYOND WHAT IS LISTED THAT HEAL YES! AVOIDS TO MAKE THE BEST FORMULAS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN, ALLERGY, AND HEALTH-FOCUSED NEEDS!
Featured collection
-
Nutrient-Rich Full-Coverage Liquid Foundation (Standard Size) - No Mica, Talc, + Much More
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price From $39.99 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Perfect-Finish Full-Coverage Foundation - No Mica, Talc, + Much More
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price $54.99 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Non-Drying Two-Ingredient Mineral Veil - Titanium Dioxide-Free, Mica-Free, & More!
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price $32.99 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Adaptive Concentrated Creamy Concealer
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price $36.99 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Long-Lasting Silky-Soft Pressed Mineral Foundation - Titanium Dioxide-Free, Phenoxyethanol-Free, + More!
Vendor:TITANIUM DIOXIDE-FREE OPTION; ALWAYS CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREERegular price $49.99 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Long-Lasting Pressed Mineral Highlighter - Titanium Dioxide-Free, Phenoxyethanol-Free, + More!
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price $49.99 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
SAMPLES: Non-Drying Two-Ingredient Mineral Veil - Titanium Dioxide-Free, Mica-Free, & More!
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price $3.25 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Sample: Nutrient-Rich Full-Coverage Liquid Foundation - No Mica, Talc, + Much More
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price $3.99 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Matte Liquid Mineral Tint - No Mica, Talc, + Much More
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price $39.99 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Luxe Plush Crystal Makeup Brush
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price $35.99 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Loose Powder Mineral Blush - Titanium Dioxide-Free, Mica-Free, & More!
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price $32.99 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
SAMPLES: Loose Powder Mineral Blush - Titanium Dioxide-Free, Mica-Free, & More!
Vendor:CRUELTY-FREE, TALC-FREE, CARMINE-FREE, PARABEN-FREE COSMETICSRegular price $3.25 USDRegular priceUnit price / per
1
/
of
12