INCI: Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Peel Oil
Bergamot essential oil with high bergapten content. The most phototoxic of citrus oils: after application and sun exposure can cause persistent pigmented patches – berloque dermatitis.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Only the bergapten-free version (FCF) is acceptable in leave-on products. Regular bergamot oil on skin under sunlight is unsafe.
Bergamot Oil (Citrus bergamia Peel Oil) is a cold-pressed essential oil from the peel of Citrus bergamia. Produced in Calabria (Italy), used in perfumery (Earl Grey tea is flavoured with it), aromatherapy, and cosmetics. Mechanism and problem. Contains bergapten (5-methoxypsoralen) – one of the strongest natural photosensitisers. Once applied and exposed to UVA, bergapten triggers a phototoxic reaction: erythema, painful blisters, and lasting drip-shaped hyperpigmentation – 'berloque dermatitis' (after a shower with bergamot perfume). Where applied. Perfumery, aromatherapy, sauna and bath products, niche natural cosmetics. In bergapten-free form (FCF – Furocoumarin-Free, bergamot with bergapten removed) – sunscreens and daily cosmetics. In Spain bergamot oil in cosmetics is rare; perfumery uses the FCF form as standard. Regulation. IFRA Code of Practice caps bergapten in leave-on products at 0.0015% (15 ppm). EU Cosmetics Regulation enforces the same limits. Unstandardised pure bergamot oil is not suitable for leave-on use. Safety. Phototoxicity is the main risk. Sensitisation reported in atopic dermatitis patients. Skin irritation possible at over 0.5% leave-on. Cross-allergy with other citrus oils. Pregnancy and lactation – not recommended. No direct teratogenicity data, but phototoxic risk and possible sensitisation are elevated in pregnancy. AEMPS and SEGO advise products without citrus essential oils or with the FCF form. Particularly suitable for. In FCF form – a fragrance ingredient for perfume compositions and aromatherapy. In unstandardised form – not for leave-on cosmetics, especially on face and neck, and not before sun exposure.
Irritation potential
HighAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
CautionThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Bergamot Oil should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Bergamot Oil suits: oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Yes, Bergamot Oil has high irritation potential. Start at low concentrations, introduce gradually, and always use SPF during the day.
Bergamot Oil has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
Bergamot essential oil with high bergapten content.
Published: · updated:
Suitable for
Use with caution
The INCI name is Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Peel Oil. It may also appear as: Bergamot Oil, Масло бергамота.