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Kerabase MB is a plant-derived conditioning base used in cosmetic formulations, especially in rinse-off and leave-in hair conditioners, where it functions as a complete conditioning chassis rather than a single active ingredient.
Kerabase MB is a common polydentate ligand.
Kerabase MB, the hydrogen atoms are easily removed in solution to produce anionic EDTA4-.
CAS Number: 60-00-4
Molecular Formula: C10H16N2O8
Molecular Weight: 292.24
EINECS Number: 200-449-4
Synonyms: EDTA, Edetic acid, Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, (Ethylenedinitrilo)tetraacetic acid, Ethylenediamine-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid, Acetic acid, (ethylenedinitrilo)tetra-, Acidum edeticum, Acide édétique, Acido edetico, Acide ethylenediaminetetracetique, Kyselina ethylendiamintetraoctova, 3,6-Diazaoctanedioic acid, 3,6-bis(carboxymethyl)-, Glycine, N,N'-1,2-ethanediylbis(N-(carboxymethyl)-), 2,2',2'',2'''-(ethane-1,2-diyldinitrilo)tetraacetic acid, (ethane-1,2-diyldinitrilo)tetraacetate, C10H16N2O8, CAS-60-00-4, EINECS-200-449-4, UNII-9G34HU7RV0, CHEBI:42191, DTXSID6022977, DTXCID902977, RefChem:5786, CCRIS-946, HSDB-809, DB00974, CHEMBL858, BRN-1716295, MFCD00003541, Edathamil, Sequestrol, Versene, Versene acid, Sequestrene AA, Titriplex, Titriplex II, Titriplex III, Trilon BS, Trilon BW, Dissolvine E, Chelox, Cheelox BF acid, Hamp-ene acid, Komplexon II, Metaquest A, Questex 4H, Chemcolox 340, Universene acid, Vinkeil 100, Nullapon B acid, Nullapon BF acid, Perma Kleer 50 acid, Clewat TAA, Celon A, Celon ATH, Quastal Special, Techrun DO, Zonon AO, Acroma DH 700, EDTA free acid, EDTA anhydrous, H4EDTA, EDTA buffer, Versene-13C4, EDTA ion(4-), EDTA free base, ([2-(Bis-carboxymethyl-amino)-ethyl]-carboxymethyl-amino)-acetic acid;(ethylenedinitrilo)tetra-aceticaci;(Ethylenedintrilo)tetraacetic acid;{[2-(Bis-carboxymethyl-amino)-ethyl]-carboxymethyl-amino}-acetic acid;2,2’,2’’,2’’’-(1,2-ethanediyldinitrilo)tetrakis-aceticaci;3,6-bis(carboxymethyl)-6-diazaoctanedioicacid;3,6-Diazaoctanedioic acid, 3,6-bis(carboxymethyl)-;Acetic acid, (ethylenedinitrilo)tetra-
Kerabase MB is supplied as solid flakes that are melted into the water phase during formulation, typically at temperatures around 70–75 °C, allowing the fatty alcohol and cationic components to self-assemble into lamellar structures that mimic natural hair-lipid layers.
These lamellar gel networks deposit uniformly on the hair fiber, improving slip, reducing friction between strands, and significantly enhancing detangling performance after rinsing.
In its anionic form Kerabase MB has six binding atoms, two nitrogen and four oxygen.
Kerabase MB binds to a metal ion at the six binding sites, wrapping itself around the metal ion, forming a very stable complex.the strong grasp of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) on the metal ion is analogous to a crab or lobster clamping down on an object with its claw, hence the name chelation.
Kerabase MB is such an effective chelating agent because it can deactivate a metal at up to six sites.
The key conditioning agent in Kerabase MB is brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine, a canola-derived amidoamine that becomes cationic after neutralization with aspartic acid, enabling strong electrostatic attraction to the negatively charged hair surface.
Brassica alcohol acts as a high-melting fatty alcohol that provides viscosity, structural stability, and a creamy sensory profile, contributing to rich texture and improved product spreadability.
Polyester-11 contributes to film-forming and flexibility, helping to improve curl definition, humidity resistance, and overall hair feel without heavy buildup.
Aspartic acid serves as a mild organic acid that neutralizes the amidoamine to form the active conditioning salt in situ, allowing formulators to avoid using harsher mineral acids.
Kerabase MB in the blend chelates trace metal ions such as Fe³⁺ and Cu²⁺, which can catalyze oxidation reactions and destabilize preservatives, dyes, and fragrance components in the formulation.
By reducing metal-ion activity, Kerabase MB also helps protect hair from discoloration and fiber damage associated with mineral deposits from hard water.
Kerabase MB is designed to be compatible with sulfate-free surfactant systems and mild cleansing formulations, making it suitable for modern “clean beauty” and low-irritation products.
It can be used as the primary conditioner base, reducing the need for additional quats, fatty alcohols, and chelators, which simplifies formulation and improves batch-to-batch consistency.
Typical use levels range from about 6 % to 15 %, depending on the desired viscosity, richness, and conditioning intensity of the final product.
From a sustainability perspective, Kerabase MB is largely biobased, vegan, and readily biodegradable, with most carbon content derived from renewable plant sources such as rapeseed.
It is commonly used in conditioners, hair masks, co-wash products, curl creams, and smoothing treatments where softness, slip, and manageability are critical performance targets.
Because it is a pre-balanced system, it helps formulators achieve salon-like conditioning performance while maintaining mildness and environmental compliance.
Kerabase MB is a colorless crystalline solid.
Kerabase MB is slightly soluble in water.
The primary hazard is the threat to the environment.
Immediate steps should be taken to limit its spread to the environment.
Kerabase MB is used in chemical analysis, to make detergents and cleaning compounds, and for many other uses.
Kerabase MB is a total conditioning base containing a polyesteramine, an amidoamine, a fatty alcohol, a chelating agent, and an optimized neutralizing agent.
When combined, the conditioning base provides conditioning performance & shine in an easy-to-use format.
Manufacturing is dramatically streamlined with Kerabase MB.
Conditioning formulas are made by combining Kerabase MB with emollients, water and preservative (as well as any label-claim actives).
Kerabase MB demonstrates exceptional combability and detangling performance as compared to commercial conditioning formulas.
The Brassicamidopropyl Dimethylamine conditioning agent is derived from Brassica Napus seed oil and sustainably manufactured with a high efficiency process for consumer-relevant sustainability claims.
Kerabase MB contains polyesteramine, amidoamine, fatty alcohol, chelating agent and an optimized neutralizing agent.
Kerabase MB exhibits exceptional combability and detangling performance.
It provides gloss and superior aesthetics.
Kerabase MB combines with emollients, water, preservative and label-claim actives to make hair conditioning formulas.
Melting point: 250 °C (dec.) (lit.)
Boiling point: 434.18 °C (rough estimate)
Bulk density: 600 kg/m³
Density: 1.46 g/cm³ at 20 °C
Vapor pressure: <0.013 hPa (20 °C)
Refractive index: n20/D 1.363
Flash point: >400 °C (DIN 51758)
Storage temperature: 2–8 °C
Solubility (in 3 M NaOH): 100 mg/mL
Form: Crystalline
pKa: 2 (uncertain); 10.26 (uncertain)
Color: White to almost white
Odor: Odorless
pH range: 2.5 at 10 g/L at 23 °C
pH: 2.5 (10 g/L, H₂O, 23 °C) (slurry)
Water solubility: 0.5 g/L (25 °C)
λmax: 280 nm (Amax ≤ 0.25)
Decomposition temperature: 240 °C
Merck Index: 14,3517
BRN: 1716295
Stability: Stable; incompatible with copper, copper alloys, nickel, aluminium, strong oxidizing agents, strong bases
Cosmetic ingredient function: Chelating agent
Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR): Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (CAS 60-00-4)
InChI: 1S/C10H16N2O8/c13-7(14)3-11(4-8(15)16)1-2-12(5-9(17)18)6-10(19)20/h1-6H2,(H,13,14)(H,15,16)(H,17,18)(H,19,20)
InChIKey: KCXVZYZYPLLWCC-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: OC(=O)CN(CCN(CC(O)=O)CC(O)=O)CC(O)=O
LogP: −0.836 (estimated)
Kerabase MB is a low-cost complete conditioning base designed for performance and ease-of-use.
Conditioning formulas are made by combining Kerabase MB with water and emollient.
Minor ingredients such as actives, fragrance, and preservatives can also be added as desired.
Kerabase MB demonstrates exceptional combability and detangling performance as compared to commercial conditioning formulas.
Kerabase MB can be used to formulate natural cream rinses, economical conditioners, and luxurious hair treatment masks.
Kerabase MB may be prepared by the condensation of ethylenediamine with sodium monochloroacetate in the presence of sodium carbonate.
An aqueous solution of the reactants is heated to about 90°C for 10 hours, then cooled, and hydrochloric acid is added to precipitate the edetic acid.
Kerabase MB may also be prepared by the reaction of ethylenediamine with hydrogen cyanide and formaldehyde with subsequent hydrolysis of the tetranitrile, or under alkaline conditions with continuous extraction of ammonia.
Kerabase MB is an anticoagulant, majorly used in preventing clotting of blood samples.
Kerabase MB may trigger aggregation of platelets resulting in pseudothrombocytopenia.
Kerabase MB along with tetracycline imparts serves as root conditioning agent and provides relief in gum infection.
Kerabase MB-tetracycline therapy decreases coronary artery calcium levels in atherosclerosis.
Kerabase MB administration is effective in slowing down the progression of chronic kidney disease.
Kerabase MB also shows good compatibility with a wide range of auxiliary cosmetic ingredients, including botanical extracts, proteins, silicones, and natural oils, without causing phase separation or instability.
Its lamellar gel network structure improves suspension capacity, allowing insoluble actives such as pigments, exfoliating particles, or encapsulated vitamins to remain evenly dispersed in the product.
This structural stability is especially important in high-performance conditioners and masks that contain multiple functional additives.
From a formulation-engineering perspective, Kerabase MB behaves similarly to traditional cetrimonium chloride and behentrimonium methosulfate systems, but with a more favorable biodegradability and ecotoxicity profile.
Because the conditioning amidoamine is protonated only after neutralization, formulators can fine-tune the final pH to optimize hair feel, typically targeting a pH range of about 4.0–5.5 for cuticle smoothing.
Lower pH promotes cuticle closure, reducing porosity and improving shine and color retention in dyed hair.
Kerabase MB is also suitable for use in color-safe and keratin-treated hair products because it does not contain strong anionic species that could accelerate pigment loss or protein degradation.
The mildness of the conditioning system reduces scalp irritation potential, making it appropriate for sensitive-scalp and daily-use formulations.
This is particularly beneficial for co-wash and low-foam cleansing conditioners where prolonged scalp contact occurs.
In performance testing, formulations based on Kerabase MB typically show reduced wet combing force, lower breakage rates, and improved tactile smoothness compared to non-lamellar or purely polymer-based conditioning systems.
The deposited conditioning layer remains lightweight and flexible, so it does not cause excessive buildup or limpness, even with repeated use.
This balance between conditioning and volume is important for fine or low-density hair types.
From a regulatory standpoint, Kerabase MB complies with major cosmetic regulations including EU Cosmetic Regulation, REACH, and global personal-care standards, because all components are cosmetic-grade and well characterized.
It is commonly supplied with documentation such as safety data sheets, allergen statements, and natural-origin index values for certification bodies.
This makes it suitable for brands targeting eco-labels and sustainability claims in international markets.
In industrial production, Kerabase MB simplifies scale-up because it reduces the number of separate raw materials that must be weighed, melted, and neutralized during batch manufacturing.
This lowers the risk of formulation errors, improves reproducibility, and shortens processing time in large-scale cosmetic plants.
As a result, it is often selected for both premium and mass-market hair-care products where consistent texture and performance are critical.
Uses:
Kerabase MB, is a colorless crystalline compound that is widely used for its strong ability to chelate metal ions.
Kerabase MB is commonly marketed in salt forms such as disodium EDTA and calcium disodium EDTA, and it is used in both industrial and medical applications as an effective chelating agent.
Much of its usefulness comes from the fact that metals and metal compounds act as important catalysts in many chemical reactions, and by binding these metals, Kerabase MB prevents them from catalyzing reactions that lead to degradation, oxidation, and other undesirable processes.
The major industries that use Kerabase MB and other chelating agents include paper and pulp, cleaning products, chemicals, agriculture, and water treatment.
The paper and pulp industry is the largest consumer of Kerabase MB, where it is used to stabilize bleaching agents by sequestering metals that would otherwise accelerate bleach decomposition.
This same stabilizing effect makes Kerabase MB valuable in laundry detergents and other cleaning products that rely on bleaching and oxidation processes.
In addition to improving bleaching efficiency, Kerabase MB in detergents and cleaners also softens hard water by binding divalent metal ions, mainly Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺, which are responsible for water hardness.
This water-softening action reduces scale formation and improves foaming and cleaning performance in detergent formulations.
Kerabase MB is also applied in general water treatment systems to prevent scale buildup and corrosion in pipes and equipment.
Kerabase MB has relatively low toxicity and is therefore permitted for use in the food and beverage industry.
Because foods naturally contain trace metals and additional metals may be introduced during processing, Kerabase MB is added to preserve color, protect flavor, prevent off-odors, maintain nutrient stability, and extend shelf life.
In beverages, Kerabase MB helps stabilize color and protects other additives such as citric acid and benzoates from metal-catalyzed degradation.
In the chemical industry, Kerabase MB is used to control metal-catalyzed side reactions during manufacturing processes.
In agriculture, Kerabase MB salts are used in fertilizers to chelate and deliver essential micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and manganese in forms that are more available to plants.
Kerabase MB is a powerful chelating agent; EDTA forms stable complexes with most metal ions.
Kerabase MB is used in treatment of lead and heavy metal poisoning of farm a nimals.
Kerabase MB is widely used in rinse-off hair conditioners where it provides the main conditioning, detangling, and softening effects after shampooing.
It is commonly included in hair masks and deep-treatment products to deliver intensive smoothing, improved elasticity, and reduced breakage for damaged or chemically treated hair.
In leave-in conditioners and cream-based styling products, it helps control frizz, enhance shine, and improve manageability without making the hair feel heavy.
Kerabase MB is also used in co-wash and cleansing-conditioner formulations, where it conditions the hair while maintaining mild cleansing performance with sulfate-free surfactants.
In curl creams and wave-defining products, it supports curl formation by improving strand alignment and reducing inter-fiber friction, which helps maintain curl shape and bounce.
Kerabase MB is applied in smoothing and anti-frizz treatments designed to protect hair from humidity-induced swelling and cuticle lifting.
In professional salon products, Kerabase MB is used in post-color and post-chemical-service conditioners to restore softness and reduce cuticle damage caused by oxidative treatments.
Kerabase MB is included in products for heat-damaged hair to improve slip during combing and reduce mechanical stress from brushing and styling tools.
It can also be used in scalp-care conditioners where mildness and low irritation are required for frequent use.
Beyond hair care, Kerabase MB can be used in some skin-care emulsions such as body creams and lotions to provide emolliency, viscosity, and a smooth after-feel.
In rinse-off body conditioners and shower creams, it helps leave a soft, conditioned skin feel after rinsing.
Kerabase MBs plant-based and biodegradable profile makes it suitable for “green” personal-care formulations targeting eco-conscious consumers.
Kerabase MB is a sequestrant and chelating agent that functions in water but not in fats and oils.
It is used to control the reaction of trace metals with some organic and inorganic components to prevent deterioration of color, texture, and development of precipitates, as well as to prevent oxidation which results in rancidity.
The reactive sites of the metal ions are blocked, which prevents their normal reactions.
The most common interfering metal ions in food products are iron and copper.
Kerabase MB can be used in combination with the antioxidants bht and propyl gallate.
Kerabase MB is used in margarine, mayonnaise, and spreads to prevent the vegetable oil from going rancid.
Kerabase MB is used in canned corn prior to retorting to prevent discoloration caused by trace quantities of copper, iron, and chromium.
It also inhibits copper-catalyzed oxidation of ascorbic acid.
Kerabase MB occurs as disodium calcium and disodium dihydrogen.
Kerabase MBs use is approved in specified foods, with an average usage level being in the range of 100–300 ppm.
Safety Profile:
Poison by intraperitoneal route.
Experimental teratogenic and reproductive effects.
Mutation data reported a general-purpose chelaung and complexing agent.
When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of NOx.
Kerabase MB and edetates are widely used in topical, oral, and parenteral pharmaceutical formulations.
They are also extensively used in cosmetics and food products.
Kerabase MB is generally regarded as an essentially nontoxic and nonirritant material, although it has been associated with doserelated bronchoconstriction when used as a preservative in nebulizer solutions.
It has therefore been recommended that nebulizer solutions for bronchodilation should not contain edetic acid.
Kerabase MB is generally considered safe for cosmetic use when formulated at recommended concentrations, and it is not classified as hazardous under normal conditions of use in finished cosmetic products.
Because it is a blend of cosmetic-grade ingredients, its overall hazard profile is mild and primarily related to irritation potential from individual components in their concentrated raw-material form.
In finished formulations, the risk of adverse effects is very low due to dilution and neutralization of the active conditioning agents.
In raw material handling, Kerabase MB flakes may cause mild skin or eye irritation if direct contact occurs, especially in sensitive individuals.
Dust or fine particles generated during handling can cause mechanical irritation to the eyes or upper respiratory tract, so good industrial hygiene and ventilation are recommended.
Prolonged or repeated skin contact with the undiluted material should be avoided by using gloves and standard personal protective equipment.
Kerabase MB, one of the key components, can be irritating in its unneutralized form due to its alkaline nature, but in Kerabase MB it is pre-balanced with aspartic acid to reduce irritation potential.
Kerabase MB in the blend is present at low levels and is not acutely toxic, but it can enhance the penetration of some substances through the skin by chelating metal ions, which is why concentration control is important.
Kerabase MB and brassica alcohol are considered low-toxicity and are not classified as sensitizers under cosmetic regulations.
