Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate?

Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate is a biodegradable chelating agent made from plant derived L-aspartic acid and the simple molecule ethylenediamine, then neutralized with sodium ions to create a water soluble salt. First introduced in the early 2000s as a greener alternative to traditional chelators like EDTA, it quickly gained popularity because it performs the same job while breaking down more easily in the environment. Manufacturing starts with combining L-aspartic acid and ethylenediamine to form ethylenediamine disuccinate, which is then converted to its trisodium form so it will dissolve readily in water based formulas.

Formulators add this ingredient to a wide range of rinse-off and leave-on products. You will find it in facial cleansers, shampoos, conditioners, toners, serums, moisturizers, sunscreens, sheet masks, anti aging creams and even color-protecting hair products where it helps keep the formula stable and looking fresh.

Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient serves one key purpose in cosmetics, but that role brings several practical benefits for both the product and the user.

As a chelating agent it grabs onto trace metal ions that can sneak into a formula from water, pigments or packaging. By binding these metal ions it stops them from breaking down preservatives, changing the product’s color or creating unpleasant odors. That means the formula stays effective for longer, the texture stays smooth and the color stays true, giving you a product that performs just as well on the last day of its shelf life as it did on the first.

Who Can Use Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate

This ingredient is considered gentle enough for every skin type, from very sensitive to acne prone or mature skin, because it is used in small amounts and works on the formula rather than directly on your skin. There are no known concerns for people with conditions like rosacea or eczema, though of course individual tolerance can vary.

The raw materials come from plant sources or simple synthetic processes, and no animal derivatives are involved, so it fits the needs of vegans and vegetarians.

Current safety assessments find no reproductive or developmental risks, so products containing this chelator are generally viewed as safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should always clear new skincare products with a qualified healthcare provider.

Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate does not make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and does not interfere with sunscreen performance. It is also compatible with almost all other cosmetic ingredients, so layering it with acids, retinoids or vitamin C poses no known problem.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to the topical use of Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate differ from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects, but most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels.

  • Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to chelating agents
  • Stinging if applied to broken or freshly shaved skin

If you notice any discomfort, stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Comedogenic rating: 0/5. Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate is fully water-soluble, used at very low concentrations and does not leave an oily or occlusive film on the skin, so it has no tendency to clog pores. This makes it suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

Because it targets metal ions in the formula rather than interacting with sebum, it poses virtually no risk of encouraging blackheads or whiteheads. No published reports link it to acne flare-ups, and formulators often choose it for “non-comedogenic” products where maintaining pore clarity is a priority.

Summary

Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate is a plant-derived chelating agent that binds trace metals, keeps preservatives working, stops color changes and prevents rancid odors. By grabbing onto iron, copper and other metal ions it shields the formula from instability so the texture, scent and performance stay consistent from first pump to last.

Its reputation as a greener, readily biodegradable alternative to traditional chelators has made it increasingly popular in modern skincare and haircare, especially in clean beauty lines that want reliable performance without environmental baggage.

Current safety data show a very low risk profile with minimal irritation potential and no comedogenicity, making it a hassle-free choice for nearly all skin types. As with any new product though, patch testing is a smart step to confirm personal tolerance.

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