What it is
Cold-pressed from bergamot citrus peel, this essential oil has a bright, fresh citrus aroma and is used as a natural fragrance. Untreated bergamot oil contains furocoumarins (such as bergapten), which can cause photosensitivity.
Safety & warnings
Untreated bergamot oil is phototoxic and can cause burns or dark patches when skin is exposed to sun; it also contains fragrance allergens. Bergapten-reduced (FCF) grades lower this risk, but the fragrance-sensitive may wish to avoid it, especially in sun products.
Origin & sourcing
Cold-pressed from the peel of the bergamot orange.
Questions everyone asks
Is bergamot oil safe in sun?
Untreated bergamot oil is phototoxic and can react with sunlight, so bergapten-reduced grades are used and sensitive users may avoid it.
Why is it in products?
It is used as a natural citrus fragrance.