Third generation pharmacist and
C.O. Bigelowproprietor Ian Ginsberg knows a thing or two about skincare. Without compromising the old-world charm of the decades-old apothecary, Ian singlehandedly transformed the Greenwich Village landmark into a mecca of modern beauty essentials, culled from around the world. In addition to handpicking the rare, coveted products that populate the store, Ian has spent years collecting original apothecary recipes dating back to 1838; recipes that inspired the contemporary C.O. Bigelow product line available nationwide at Bath & Body Works. Between Ian’s unparalleled pharmacist knowledge and the store’s vast offerings, it’s no wonder C.O. Bigelow attracts a cult following: A-listers like Sarah Jessica Parker, Mariska Hargitay, Liv Tyler, and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen flock to the legendary apothecary for all their beauty needs.
Celebrities aren’t the only ones with access to Ian’s expertise—now the skincare guru is sharing his expert tips for perfecting summer skin, giving you a VIP appointment with New York’s most sought-after pharmacist:
Q: What sunscreens do you recommend?A: “I’m a big proponent of C.O. Bigelow All-in-One Protective Day Cream SPF 25,” says Ian. “It’s light enough to use every day, but powerful enough to protect skin even in stronger sun. Advanced complexes of vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants nourish, hydrate and protect skin while SPF 25 shields it from the sun—the ultimate multi-tasker. For oily or sensitive skin, try All-in-One Protective Day Lotion (Lightweight Formula) SPF 25—the weightless formulation absorbs instantly as the lotion boosts skin health and protects the complexion.”
Q: What’s the best way to get my daily dose of SPF protection?A: “You don’t have to overhaul your whole beauty routine to get the protection you need,” says Ian. “Just switch to SPF versions of the products you already swear by. Plenty of moisturizers and makeup come with built-in SPF protection these days. Start off every morning with a face lotion that has UVA and UVB protection with an SPF of 15 or higher, like C.O. Bigelow All-in-One Protective Day Cream SPF 25.”
Q: What kind of face products should I use during the summer months?A: “Definitely stick to lighter formulations, since heavy products can leave skin oily,” Ian advises. “Try a lightweight cleanser like C.O. Bigelow Vitamin Boost Cream Cleanser to whisk away the dirt, impurities and environmental pollutants that build up on hot summer days. At night, replenish skin with a silky-smooth formula like C.O. Bigelow Multi-Nutrient Repair Serum, developed to restore skin’s vitality with fruit extracts, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.”
Q: My skin gets dull and dry over the summer—what can I do to keep my skin smooth?A: “Exfoliating is key,” Ian maintains. “Buffing away dead skin cells makes way for bright, healthy skin. Start by exfoliating with a refining formula like C.O. Bigelow Lemon & Pomegranate Body Scrub, which brightens skin with Lemon and fights free radicals with Pomegranate. Make sure to hydrate the fresh skin the scrub reveals with a light formula like Lemon & Lime Body Soufflé Toning Citrus Formula, developed to moisturize with Lemon and refine and smooth with skin-toning Lime.”
Q: How can I cool off overheated skin in hot weather?A: “Go for products formulated with Peppermint Oil, a naturally cooling, refreshing ingredient. To energize overheated skin on a hot day, take a cool shower and lather up with C.O. Bigelow Mentha Body Vitamin Body Wash, a mint-infused shower gel that invigorates skin as it delivers a nourishing dose of Vitamins A, C and E. Refresh feet after pounding the pavement in the heat with Mentha Foot Tingling Foot Cream, formulated with a kick of peppermint oil to revitalize tired feet and even fight foot odor.”
