Trisodium Nta

Not rated

New ingredients

No known benefits

Trisodium Nta at a glance

  • Synthetic chelating agent
  • Helps ensure product efficacy
  • Also helps protect skin from metal ions
  • Considered safe as used in cosmetics

Trisodium Nta description

Trisodium NTA is a synthetic chelating agent made from a salt derivative of the chelating solid, nitrilotriacetic acid—that’s where the “NTA” part comes from. This ingredient chelates (bonds to) metal ions in cosmetics that would otherwise cause stability, efficacy, and/or aesthetic issues. Trisodium NTA is also used as a sequestering agent, essentially an offshoot of chelation in that it helps protect cosmetics from unwanted color changes and lends support to surfactants in products like cleansers or shampoos. Use levels of trisodium NTA are typically 5% or lower, depending on formulary needs and concurrent use of other chelating agents. 0.1–1% use levels are common in both rinse-off and leave-on products. Trisodium NTA is supplied as a crystalline powder and is considered safe as used in cosmetics.

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.