What is Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract?
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract, also known as Bergamot Leaf Cell Extract, is derived from the leaf cells of the Citrus aurantium bergamia plant, a member of the Rutaceae family. This plant is more commonly known as the bergamot orange, a fragrant citrus fruit that is the size of an orange and the color of a lemon. The extract is rich in flavonoids, a group of plant metabolites thought to provide health benefits through cell signaling pathways and antioxidant effects.
The use of bergamot in cosmetics and personal care products dates back centuries, with its essential oil being a popular ingredient in perfumes due to its unique citrusy aroma. However, the use of its leaf cell extract in cosmetics is a more recent development, brought about by advances in biotechnology that allow for the cultivation and extraction of plant stem cells.
The production of Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract involves cultivating the leaf cells of the bergamot plant in a controlled environment, then extracting the beneficial compounds from these cells. This process ensures a high concentration of the active ingredients, making the extract more potent than traditional plant extracts.
While there are other citrus-based extracts used in cosmetics, such as lemon or grapefruit extract, Bergamot Leaf Cell Extract stands out due to its unique composition. It contains a higher concentration of flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant properties, making it a more potent skin protector.
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract is typically used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products, including moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging treatments. Its antioxidant properties make it an effective ingredient in products designed to protect the skin from environmental stressors, while its skin-protecting function helps to maintain the skin’s natural barrier function.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
The Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract is known for its potent antioxidant properties. In simple terms, antioxidants are substances that help protect our skin cells from damage. They do this by neutralizing harmful free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to our cells. This damage, also known as oxidative stress, can lead to premature aging and various skin issues. By incorporating products with Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract into your skincare routine, you can help your skin fight off these damaging free radicals, thereby maintaining its health and youthful appearance.
Skin Protecting
Another official function of Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract is skin protection. This means that it helps to form a barrier on the skin’s surface, which reduces the impact of environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays. This protective layer helps to prevent moisture loss and keeps the skin hydrated and supple. It also shields the skin from potential irritants that can cause redness, sensitivity, and other skin issues. Therefore, using skincare products with this ingredient can help to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and protected from external harm.
It’s important to note that the benefits listed above are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, should be considered with caution.
Safety Profile
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for all skin types and there is always a potential for allergic reactions.
Potential side effects of topical application of Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Allergic reactions in individuals with sensitivity to citrus fruits
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Cell Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Side effects or adverse reactions from this ingredient are not common but can occur, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to citrus fruits. As with any new skincare product, it is recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was performed by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), and other various publicly available sources.
