PENTASODIUM PENTETATE

Also known as: Pentasodium Pentetate

INCI: PENTASODIUM PENTETATE | Function: Chelating Agent | Type: Synthetic chelating agent (DTPA pentasodium salt)

What Is PENTASODIUM PENTETATE?

Pentasodium Pentetate is the pentasodium salt of pentetic acid (DTPA). It is a powerful chelating agent that binds metal ions (calcium, magnesium, iron, copper) in formulations, preventing them from destabilizing products or causing discoloration. More effective than EDTA at binding certain metals.

Key Skin Benefits

+ Stronger chelation than EDTA for some metals
+ Prevents product discoloration from metal ions
+ Preservative boosting — enhances antimicrobial efficacy
+ Stabilizes fragrances and active ingredients

Pros

+ Very effective metal chelator
+ Extends product shelf life
+ Enhances preservative performance
+ Water-soluble and easy to formulate

Cons

− Synthetic — not naturally derived
− Large molecule — limited skin penetration (surface-acting)
− High pH in raw form — requires neutralization

Specifications

Property	Value
Usage Areas	Face, Body
Product Type	Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source	Synthetic
Natural Level	Synthetic

Safety Ratings

Metric	Rating
Skin Sensitivity	1/5 (very low)
Comedogenic Rating	0/5
EWG Score	3/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

Region	Leave-on %	Rinse-off %	Status
EU (CosIng)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
Japan (MHLW)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
ASEAN	No limit	No limit	Allowed
China (NMPA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product Type	Typical %
Any water-based formula	0.05 - 0.2%
Soap / Bar cleanser	0.1 - 0.5%
Shampoo	0.1 - 0.3%

References

CIR — Safety Assessment of EDTA and salts. PMID: 12472622
EU CosIng Database — Listed as chelating.
SpecialChem — Pentasodium Pentetate cosmetic ingredient

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