Tetrasodium Etidronate 85% Powder (HEDP-4Na)

INCI: Tetrasodium Etidronate Tetrasodium Etidronate 85% Powder (HEDP-4Na) is a phosphonate chelating agent and stabiliser, supplied as a concentrated water-soluble powder. It is added to the water phase of skincare, cosmetic and cleansing formulations to improve product performance, stability and shelf life. It is most useful in soaps, cleansers and hard-water formulations, where it holds metal ions in a soluble complex so they cannot degrade the product.

What it does in a formulation: it sequesters di- and trivalent metal ions — calcium, magnesium and iron — carried in hard water and in raw materials, so they are not free to form soap scum or to reduce the efficiency of the cleansing surfactants.

Stabiliser and antioxidant: by binding the trace metal ions that catalyse oxidation, it helps the finished product hold its original colour, fragrance and texture. Soap performance: in bar soaps it reduces mineral deposit on the skin, giving a softer feel.

It supports the efficiency of the preservative system by removing the trace metals that antagonise it.