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Bergamot oil must be protected from sunlight, because bergapten, one of its components becomes poisonous if exposed to sunlight. That is why the oil should always be stored in dark bottles in dark places. Exposure to sunlight should even be avoided after it is applied to the skin, at least until it gets absorbed into your skin. *
Bergamot essential oil can be irritating to the skin in some people, especially when it is not diluted with a carrier oil. Essential oils, including bergamot oil, can sometimes cause allergic dermatitis.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction or sensitivity to bergamot oil may include:
- • redness
- • hives
- • burning sensation
- • blisters
- • pain
You’ll want to test any essential oil first before use. Rub a dime-sized area of your forearm with the oil diluted in a carrier oil. If you don’t see any allergic reaction within 24 hours, it should be safe to use.
Be aware that using essential oils in a diffuser can have a negative effect on children, pets, or pregnant women.
Bergapten, a compound found in bergamot oil, was shown to be phototoxic in a small causes the skin to become irritated or damaged when exposed to sunlight.
In addition to the essential oil, products containing bergamot, such as perfume, may cause a skin reaction. If you are concerned about your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, look for a bergapten-free version of bergamot oil.
The bergapten in bergamot oil is harmful if swallowed. Even inhaling or using the essential oil topically can interfere with medication. Certain medications, such as ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic, also increase sensitivity to sunlight, increasing bergamot oil’s impact.
It’s important to check for bergamot oil’s interactions with other medications before using. One way to do this is to speak with a pharmacist or your doctor about medications you’re taking and which might interfere with essential oils. *
