Dermofeel® PA-12 (INCI: Sodium Phytate) is a high-performance, 100% natural chelating agent. Sourced from rice bran, this powerful sodium salt of phytic acid serves as a natural-compliant and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic EDTA. It effectively inactivates metal ions that enter formulations through process water, botanical extracts, or pigments, preventing the catalytic reactions that lead to oxidation, discoloration, and rancidity.
Key Benefits and Performance
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Natural EDTA Alternative: Its chelating stability constants for divalent and trivalent ions (such as Mg2+, Ca2+, Cu2+, and Fe3+) are broadly comparable to EDTA at pH 6, making it the gold standard for certified natural cosmetics.
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Oxidation Protection: By sequestering metal ions, it protects unsaturated plant oils and fragile fragrance components from metal-catalyzed oxidation. It works in perfect synergy with antioxidants like Tocopherol.
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Hard Water Performance: In rinse-off products, it prevents the precipitation of insoluble fatty acid salts (“lime soap”), maintaining superior foaming performance even in hard water conditions.
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Color and Odor Stability: It prevents the unsightly discoloration and “off-odors” that occur when metal impurities react with other cosmetic actives or packaging materials.
Formulation Guidelines
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pH Sensitivity: Efficacy is optimized at approximately pH 6.0. Note that the raw material is highly alkaline; in aqueous solution, it has a pH of 11–12. Always dissolve in water before adding alkaline-sensitive materials.
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Processing: Fully water-soluble and cold processable. It can be added to the water phase at any stage. In surfactant systems, it should be added to the water phase before the addition of thickeners.
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Stability Conflicts: * Ionic Stability: Not suitable for formulations that rely on MgSO4 or ZnSO4 for stability (such as certain W/O emulsions), as it will sequester these ions and destabilize the system.
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Color Shifts: Can cause a pink discoloration in the presence of iron ions, particularly in formulations containing UV filters like Avobenzone.
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