Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Water: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 24, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Water?

Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Water is a clear watery distillate that comes from bergamot, the small green citrus fruit grown mainly in southern Italy. During production the whole fruit is gently steam distilled, separating aromatic molecules and trace minerals from the pulp and peel into pure water. The resulting liquid captures the light fresh scent and the skin friendly components of the fruit without the stickiness or color of juice.

Bergamot has been prized in perfumery since the 18th century for its uplifting aroma, and skincare makers soon noticed that the leftover distillate left skin feeling soft and refreshed. As modern cosmetic labs moved toward plant based ingredients, this fruit water found a permanent place in formulas that aim to deliver lightweight hydration and a spa like sensory touch.

Today Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Water appears in facial mists, toners, soothing masks, daily moisturizers, after sun gels, scalp treatments and even refreshing body sprays. Its gentle nature makes it easy to slot into both water based and emulsified products without altering texture or color.

Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Water’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is prized for one primary role in skincare formulas.

Skin conditioning: The fruit water provides a quick hit of surface hydration that helps skin feel soft, comfortable and balanced. Its naturally occurring sugars and trace minerals support the skin barrier while the subtle bergamot aroma offers a pleasant application experience. Because it is water light, it layers well under serums or creams and can refresh the complexion during the day without leaving residue.

Who Can Use Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Water

This light fruit water works well for nearly all skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry because it supplies gentle hydration without heavy oils. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it too, though very reactive complexions should always watch for fragrance related discomfort since the ingredient still carries a mild natural scent.

The distillate is plant derived with no animal inputs so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

No data suggests special risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse off or leave on cosmetics at typical levels, but this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should check with a healthcare professional before adding any new skincare product.

The steam distillation process removes most of the furocoumarins that make cold pressed bergamot oil photo-sensitising, so this water is not known to increase sun sensitivity. Normal daytime sunscreen habits are still advised.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Water vary from person to person. The points below are possible outcomes, yet most people will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild stinging or redness in very sensitive or compromised skin
  • Itching or tightness if the formula contains additional fragrances that clash with the skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to citrus extracts
  • Rare photo-irritation if residual furocoumarins are present in higher than usual amounts

If any discomfort, rash or swelling appears while using a product that contains this ingredient stop use immediately and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Water is almost entirely water with trace aroma compounds and minerals, none of which have a reputation for clogging pores. It contains no heavy oils or waxes, so it sits on the skin briefly then evaporates or is absorbed, leaving nothing behind that could block follicles.

Because of this non-clogging nature it is considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

Batches can vary slightly depending on the distillation, yet any pore-clogging material that might remain is typically far below the level that would cause concern.

Summary

Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Water is used mainly for light skin conditioning. It gives a quick boost of hydration, supports a comfortable skin feel and adds a refreshing scent, all without altering product texture. These benefits come from its mix of water-soluble sugars, minerals and gentle aromatic molecules captured during steam distillation of bergamot fruit.

While not the most talked-about ingredient on social media it quietly appears in mists, toners, gels and scalp sprays where formulators need a clean plant-based water phase that feels luxurious. Its safety record is strong with few reports of irritation and the distillation process removes most compounds linked to photosensitivity.

Overall it is a low-risk, plant-derived option for daily skincare. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to do a small patch test before regular use to make sure your own skin agrees with it.

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