Sodium Phytate (Chelating Agent) - Essentially Natural
Sodium Phytate (Chelating Agent) - Essentially Natural
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Sodium Phytate is a natural chelating agent used in water-based formulations to bind trace metal ions. By tying up metals that can speed up oxidation, it helps protect colour, scent, and oxidation-sensitive ingredients in finished products. It is a readily biodegradable alternative to EDTA and is widely used in serums, toners, gels, shampoos, body washes, and O/W emulsions.
Key properties
- Function: Chelating agent for water-based formulations
- Benefits In Formulas: Helps reduce oxidation-related discolouration, supports preservative performance, and can improve foam quality in hard water
- Format: Liquid chelator (water phase compatible)
- Usage Rate: 0.05% to 2% (O/W emulsions), 0.1% to 0.2% (rinse-off)
- Not Suitable For: W/O emulsions
- Ingredients: Sodium Phytate, Aqua, Alcohol
- Trade Name: Dermofeel PA-3
- Country Of Origin: Varies by batch
What it’s used for
- Chelating metal ions in water-based products
- Helping reduce oxidation and discolouration in emulsions and surfactant systems
- Supporting preservative performance in challenging formulas
- Helping maintain foam performance in hard water
- Serums, toners, gels, shampoos, body washes, lotions and creams
Who it’s for
- DIY formulators wanting an EDTA alternative for “cleaner label” projects
- Water-based formulas that discolor or develop off-notes over time
- Rinse-off products used in hard-water environments
- Formulas that include oxidation-sensitive ingredients
- A preservative
- A finished product intended for direct application to skin
This product is suitable for:
This product is not:
How to use
- As A Water-Phase Add-In: Dissolve into the water phase and mix until uniform.
- Typical Use Level In O/W Emulsions: 0.05% to 2%.
- Typical Use Level In Rinse-Off Products: 0.1% to 0.2%.
- Formulation Note: Do not use in W/O emulsions.
- Processing Tip: Sodium phytate is an electrolyte, so avoid pairing with electrolyte-intolerant ingredients.
- Processing Tip: It pairs well with antioxidants such as Vitamin E and ascorbyl palmitate.
- Processing Tip: Check and adjust final pH as needed after adding to your formula.
Safety instructions
- Cosmetic raw material for external use in finished products
- Patch test finished formulations before full use
- Avoid eye contact and rinse well if contact occurs
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
- Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight
- Use clean utensils to avoid contamination
Faqs
Q: Does sodium phytate replace a preservative?
A: No. It can support preservative performance, but you still need an appropriate preservative system for water-containing products.
Q: Why use a chelating agent if I already use antioxidants?
A: Chelators address metal-triggered oxidation pathways, while antioxidants help slow oxidation in other ways, so they are often used together.
Q: Can I use it in any emulsion type?
A: It is suited to water-based systems and O/W emulsions, but it is not recommended for W/O emulsions.

Thank you for your prompt delivery.
This product is a must if you want to take your formulation to another level.
When will you be getting this back in please?
Hi there Celeste,
Thanks for reaching out :)
We unfortunately cannot provide any time frames for when we may be receiving more stock of the Sodium Phytate Chelating Agent. Apologies.
The best we'd be able to offer for now is:
- Sodium Gluconate, an alternative chelating agent.
https://essentiallynatural.co.za/products/essentially-natural-sodium-phytate-chelating-agent-copy
or Deionised Water, as this water would not need a chelating agent.
https://essentiallynatural.co.za/products/essentially-natural-deionized-water
We hope that helps <3
Kindest Regards,
Essentially Natural Support