What are Chelators?
Chelators, also known as sequestrants, are complex molecules that trap the heavy metal that is often found in water. In other words, chelators soften water.
Water
Water contains mineral compounds, namely magnesium and calcium salts. A distinction is made between two types of water, depending on the concentration of these compounds.
Hard water: contains a high concentration of metals.
Soft water: contains very few metals.
Hard water
We can easily identify if we are washing our hair with hard water. In these cases, the shampoo and/or soap lather less, leaving the hair heavier, duller and brittle.
This is because metals are deposited in the cuticles, opening them and making them look dull. This metal buildup can also be responsible for itchy scalp and dryer skin.
How to identify them?
You will find them in the list of ingredients with Inci nomenclature:
DISODIUM EDTA
TRISODIUM EDTA
TETRASODIUM EDTA
Conclusion
In conclusion, the chelators used in cosmetics have the function of trapping heavy metals, cleaning the accumulations that form in the hair. Thanks to them we get softer, shinier and healthier hair.
Chelating agents are not toxic, they are synthetic. Remember that currently we will NOT find any product on the market that contains toxic ingredients. Furthermore, the EU has a very clear law regarding toxic substances and the percentage of each ingredient allowed in the different ingredients in the formulations.
