I t’s almost a certainty that if you’ve taken to having high tea, in the English tradition, you know bergamot – maybe better than you think. Bergamot is the central flavor infusion in Earl Gray tea; it gives it that spicy scent that’s also reliably soothing.

And here’s a bit more trivia: it’s the most key of all keynotes in fragrance. The reigning royalty of perfumed products. No other note carried in colognes worldwide has more heft than the essential notes of the tiny bergamot. Who knew? And because of its many benefits and uses and unmatched ability to truly blend “soothing” and “spicy,” bergamot is found in both men’s and women’s fragrances, as well as self-care, hair care, and cosmetics products.

Studies have shown when used aromatically, such as with the TLEO Aroma Diffuser, it promotes soothing feelings of relief from anxiety, stress, and depression.

 

One of the best, maybe more untapped ways to use it, though, is topically – diluted with TLEO Fractionated Coconut Oil – to spot treat skin irritations, and improve the appearance of skin and hair overall. Bergamot’s antibacterial and analgesic qualities, together with its anti-inflammatory qualities, do great work in helping lessen the look of blemishes, redness, and spotty pigmentation.

Remember, when you use a citrus oil in skincare, be sure to use it when you know you won’t be going outside, into direct sunlight, and wash it off before heading out, as citrus oils can cause photosensitivity. And always do a spot test for reaction before using topically.

Mix 1-2 drops of TLEO Bergamot – or 1 drop each TLEO Bergamot and TLEO Tea Tree, a terrific blend – with a small palmful of TLEO FCO and dab directly onto blemishes, such as pimples, and leave on overnight.

To soothe feelings of an irritated scalp, add a drop or two of TLEO Bergamot to TLEO FCO and massage it into your hair at the roots before bedtime. Wrap the hair to protect it while you sleep. Rinse out in the shower in the morning. Or maybe you want to achieve softer-feeling, more gentle curls? Add a drop or two of this time-tested favorite essential oil to your shampoo and welcome the surprise when you’re done styling your hair for that big night out (someday, post-pandemic, it’s coming!).

 

*These recommendations are for educational purposes only. Test first for possible allergic reaction. Citrus oils may cause photosensitivity and should not be applied topically when in direct sunlight or going outside. If pregnant or breast-feeding, or taking medications, ask a health professional before use and consult your doctor about contraindications. Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. This product line is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or mitigate any disease.