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Bergamot

What Bergamot is & what it does

Bergamot refers to extracts derived from the citrus fruit Citrus bergamia, typically used as a fragrance ingredient to give skincare and sunscreen products a fresh, citrusy scent. Some bergamot extracts naturally contain furocoumarins such as bergapten, which can make skin more sensitive to UV light, so cosmetic-grade bergamot is often processed to reduce or remove these compounds.

What does Bergamot do in skincare?

Bergamot is most often used as a fragrance ingredient, adding a fresh citrus scent to skincare and sunscreen products. Some forms also bring antioxidant plant compounds, but its main role in a formula is scent.

Is Bergamot safe?

Cosmetic-grade bergamot is generally considered safe when used at typical fragrance levels in well-formulated products. Raw bergamot oil can contain furocoumarins that increase sensitivity to sunlight, so reputable formulas use versions processed to limit these compounds. As with any fragrance ingredient, people prone to sensitivity may prefer to patch test first.

Is Bergamot natural or synthetic?

Bergamot is a natural ingredient derived from the citrus fruit Citrus bergamia. The extract or oil can be refined to remove certain naturally occurring compounds, but the source itself is a plant.

Sunscreens with Bergamot

We rate 85 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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