EDTA is an ingredient that is used as a preservative in many underarm deodorants and antiperspirants. Because of its unique properties, this ingredient, which is considered safe for cosmetic use, prevents bacteria from growing.
Properties
EDTA stands for ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid; it's molecular formula is C10H16N2O8. It is an organic compound most commonly found in a salt form, usually disodium EDTA or calcium disodium EDTA.
Uses
The primary use of EDTA is as a chelating agent. A chelating agent is a chemical that neutralizes metal ions that can cause unwanted reactions by bonding to them.
Features
EDTA can form up to six bonds to a single metal ion. The organic EDTA molecule surrounds the metal and makes it unreactive; this is called "sequestration," meaning "withdrawal from use."
Deodorant
As a deodorant preservative, EDTA is thought to work by sequestering the metal ions needed by bacteria for growth.
Safety
A 2002 review in the "International Journal of Toxicology" found the use of EDTA in deodorant and other cosmetic products to be safe.
Tags: chelating agent, disodium EDTA, metal ions