Citrus Aurantium Bergamia, better known as Bergamot, is a fragrant citrus fruit the size of an orange, with a yellow or green color similar to a lime. Citrus aurantium bergamia fruit oil is an essential oil expressed from the peel of the bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia, or Citrus aurantium bergamia).
The fragrance of bergamot orange differs significantly from other citrus fruits because its composition of the essential oil is different.
While most of the other citrus essential oils consist mainly of limonene, bergamot essential oil only contains up to 45% of it. The rest of the oil is comprised of linalool, linalyl acetate, ß-pinene, and terpinene. The scent of bergamot oil is woodier than the other citrus essential oils.
Renowned for its enticingly fresh, sweet, and fruity aroma, Bergamot oil plays a key role in fragrance profiles of numerous skincare products. It's not just about the scent, though: this oil also boasts remarkable properties that can aid in skincare routines.
The history of Bergamot Fruit Oil traces back to traditional Italian folk medicine, where it was used for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to treat skin conditions. This traditional use has translated into modern skincare applications.
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil and Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Peel Oil are often used interchangeably in skincare, as both refer to the essential oil derived from the peel of the Bergamot fruit.
The extraction process involves cold-pressing the peel of the fruit to release the oil, which is rich in beneficial compounds. So the essential oil is typically extracted from the peel regardless of whether it's referred to as "Fruit Oil" or "Peel Oil." Therefore, they are essentially the same product when it comes to skincare formulations.
In the world of skincare, the primary role of Citrus Aurantium Bergamia, or Bergamot Fruit Oil, is to impart a captivating fragrance to the product. Its distinct aroma, characterized by a balance of sweetness and citrus, is a cherished addition to many skincare formulations, providing an olfactory delight to enhance the user experience. It lends a refreshing scent that can enhance the sensory experience of using these products.
Bergamot oil is a favorite in aromatherapy for its uplifting and calming effects. Although not a direct skincare function, this benefit enhances the overall user experience and contributes to well-being.
Yet, Bergamot Fruit Oil isn't solely about the fragrance. It also boasts certain beneficial properties.
The role of Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil in skincare extends beyond the delightful fragrance it imparts to creams, lotions, and serums. This essential oil has three primary functions:
Sebum Regulation: The oil has been observed to help balance sebum production, making it a valuable addition to skincare routines, especially for those managing oily or combination skin types.
Soothing: With its inherent anti-inflammatory properties, Bergamot Fruit Oil can help soothe skin redness and irritation, promoting a calm and balanced skin appearance.
Antimicrobial: Bergamot oil has antimicrobial properties that can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi. This makes it a useful addition in skincare products targeting acne-prone skin.
While Bergamot Fruit Oil holds many benefits for the skin, it's essential to consider its safety.
Although used in skincare as a fragrance, unrefined Bergamot essential oil is 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 there is a risk of developing a sun-induced rash if they are applied to the skin and that skin is then exposed to sunlight.
For this reason, most commercially sold bergamot oils are labeled “bergapten-free”, “furanocoumarin-free”, or “FCF”. If these compounds are removed from the essential oil, then it should be safe.
In its pure, undiluted form, this oil can be highly potent and may cause skin irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin. Therefore, it is used in a diluted form in skincare products. This essential oil is still not recommended, however, if you are sensitive to citrus fruits.
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