Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Extract

Citrus aurantium bergamia fruit extract is a fragrant and antioxidant extract derived from the peel of the bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia, or Citrus aurantium bergamia).

Bergamot oranges differ significantly from other citrus fruits in terms of fragrance, because they have a different composition of the essential oil. Whereas most citrus essential oils consist mainly of limonene, bergamot essential oil only contains up to 45% of it. The remainder is comprised of linalool, linalyl acetate, ß-pinene, and terpinene. As a result, the bergamot oil scent is woodier than other citrus essential oils.

Bergamot oranges are also one of the richest sources of furanocoumarins, compounds that are harmful to the skin. The one present in bergamot is called bergapten. These compounds are phototoxic, meaning that after application of the product and prolonged exposure to the sun, you are at risk of developing a sun-induced rash. For this reason, these compounds are removed and the bergamot extracts are labeled as “bergapten-free”, “furanocoumarin-free”, or “FCF”.

Still, if you are sensitive to citrus fruits, this extract is not recommended.

The peels of bergamot oranges are also rich in antioxidant compounds, mainly flavonoids, and organic acids.