This invention involves the use of a class of compounds with chelation affinity and selectivity for first transition series elements. Application or administration of the free or conjugated compound, or physiological salts of the free or conjugated compound, results in decrease of the bioavailability and/or chemical action of first transition series elements. These characteristics make such compounds useful in cosmetics and personal care products to decrease odor arising from microbial growth on body surfaces and in body cavities, decrease microbial growth on teeth, plaque, and gums that cause tooth decay and gum disease, inhibition of oxidative damage to the skin, inhibition of enzymatic action of metalloenzymes dependent on first transition series elements, and inhibition of reperfusion injury.