Neutrol® MGDA

A biodegradable complexing agent for

cosmetics products

Complexing agents, chelating agents or sequestrants are

Metal MGDA complex 3D picture

substances that can form strong complexes with metal ions and
thus inactivate them. Brief Overview
Metal ions (calcium or magnesium ions) are incompatible with Neutrol® MGDA
many ingredients and heavy metal ions like iron or copper can
accelerate the oxidative deterioration of cosmetic products. To
INCI Name:
avoid these effects the ions need to be chelated.
Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl Alaninate
Origins of metal ions in cosmetic products are process water, raw
materials and production equipment (vessels, tubes).
Active Matter:
85%-88%

EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) and its salts (Disodium EDTA, Trisodium EDTA, Recommended dosage:
Tetrasodium EDTA) and HEDP (Etidronic acid) are the most used chelating agents but 0.05 – 0.5%
they have a poor biodegradability. Therefore, producers of cosmetic products are looking
for biodegradable alternatives.
Appearance:
Fine, yellowish powder
Performance profile
Fields of Application
 Readily biodegradable* Personal Care formulations, e.g.:
 Excellent ecological and toxicological profile
 Shower products
 43 % derived from natural, renewable feedstocks
 Bath preparations
 Facial cleansers
 Strong complexes are formed with metal ions and thus
 Liquid soaps
inactivates them
 Highly stable  Baby wash products

 Cold processable, easy to formulate  Shampoos

 Conditioners
*based on OECD standards. This means that Neutrol® MGDA, in such a test, for example, is degraded into
water and its mineral components by the microorganisms present in wastewater treatment plants.  Styling products
 Skin Care
 Oral Care
Sustainability benefits Neutrol® MGDA
• Readily biodegradable
• 43 % derived from natural, renewable feedstocks
• Cold processable
Status May 2021

• Does not contain preservative

• Suitable for a great variety of Personal Care formulations
• Suitable for formulations according to Nordic Ecolabel

Although all statements and information in this publication are believed to be accurate and reliable, they are presented gratis and for guidance only, and risks and liability for results obtained by use of the
products or application of the suggestions described are assumed by the user. THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND. ALL EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE DISCLAIMED. The user
should not assume that toxicity data and safety measures are indicated or that other measures may not be required. The claims and supporting data provided in this publication have not been evaluated for
compliance with any jurisdiction’s regulatory requirements and the results reported may not be generally true under other conditions or in other matrices. Users must evaluate what claims and information are
appropriate and comply with a jurisdiction’s regulatory requirements.

For more information visit us at www.personal-care.basf.com or www.carecreations.basf.com

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