Bergamot Oil

Bergamot Oil Bergapten Free (FCF — furocoumarin-free, CAS 68648-33-9) is cold-pressed bergamot peel oil processed to remove bergapten (5-methoxypsoralen) and other furocoumarins via vacuum distillation or rectification. Phototoxicity risk, the primary concern of regular bergamot oil, is eliminated. EU Annex III (Entry 352) mandates fragrance allergen labeling above threshold concentrations. CIR Expert Panel (2019 final, 2021 update) concluded citrus peel oils are safe for rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics when formulated to be non-sensitizing and leave-on forms contain <15 ppm 5-MOP; bergapten-free form inherently complies. EWG Skin Deep rates psoralen-free bergamot oil as LOW hazard. ECHA lists as skin sensitizer Skin Sens. 1 based on limonene/linalool content. Overall safety profile is GOOD for intended cosmetic use.

Permitted as fragrance ingredient in cosmetics; FEMA GRAS for flavoring; no specific FDA concentration limit for bergapten-free form; CIR (2019/2021) concluded safe when formulated to be non-sensitizing and leave-on products contain <0.0015% (15 ppm) 5-MOP