Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate (TGDA) is a synthetic, biodegradable chelating agent used in cosmetics and personal care products. It is derived from glutamic acid, a naturally occurring amino acid, and functions primarily to bind metal ions, helping to improve product stability and preserve formula integrity.

What It Does

TGDA prevents metal ions (like calcium, magnesium, or iron) from reacting with other ingredients in a formulation. These ions can enter a product through water or packaging and may otherwise lead to product degradation, discoloration, or reduced efficacy. By neutralizing them, TGDA:

• Enhances preservative performance, helping preservatives work more effectively and at lower concentrations
• Improves product clarity and shelf life, especially in water-based formulations
• Maintains pH balance and prevents rancidity, especially in emulsions or oil-in-water products

Why It’s Used in Skincare

Compared to older chelators like EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), TGDA is considered more environmentally friendly due to its readily biodegradable nature and low toxicity. It’s a smart choice for brands aiming for greener, more sustainable formulations.

TGDA is also gentle on the skin and non-irritating, making it suitable for use in cleansers, moisturizers, shampoos, and serums where stability and mildness are both priorities.

INCI Name:

Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate

Summary

Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is a modern, biodegradable chelating agent that boosts formula stability and preservative performance without compromising skin safety or environmental standards. Its use is increasingly common in clean and green beauty formulations.