C.O. Bigelow Chemists — Local services in New York

I’ve been a loyal patron of CO Bigelows for over eight years. Today I came to refill my Escentric 01 Molecule perfume. Sadly, this was the most racist experience at the perfume counter. The sales rep was busy servicing two other white women when I approached her. I should note that I am an Asian American woman in my 30s.

I asked the sales rep if I could get help unlocking the glass case for the Escentric Molecules line. She was super dismissive to me and said she would get someone from the fragrance department even though that was her job. I waited and no one came for 10 mins. I had to ask for the rep behind the makeup counter to help me. After I finished browsing the store I found the same sales rep servicing other white women even leaving one with the perfume case open unattended.

I wanted to rationalize this interaction…maybe she was busy and forgot to pull backup assistance. Maybe the woman from the fragrance department forgot to come. However, this all too familiar feeling as a woman of color. Often bias isn’t overt racism but rather making someone feel small and invisible. I am very disappointed in this dismissive and biased service. I will be taking my...

I absolutely love their line of products! I was first introduced to them many years ago at Bath & Body Works. The Mentha Vitamin Body Wash and Lemon Hand Wash were the only items I would ever buy from that store. They could never keep it in stock so I started ordering them online directly from the source. Unfortunately, they have temporarily discontinued my favorite body wash for at least a year (maybe more). It kind of forced me to check out more of their body washes. So far, my favorite scents have been musk, eucalyptus, and bay rum. They've been good replacements. Also, the Lotio Mentholus is great for dry skin. It's soothing and relaxing, and has a great scent.

I've never actually visited the store in NYC, but I wish they would branch out. I'd definitely seek it out if I ever go back to New York. They appear to have more products than what I've seen online. The ones I've tried are always reliable and have withstood the test of time. They are very gentle on sensitive skin. Their fragrances are relaxing. I'll continue to order them from their online store. I also hope they bring back my favorite Mentha Vitamin Body Wash soon. It has certainly...

I have been a longtime customer at C.O. Bigelow and have always appreciated the store’s unique charm.

However, what I witnessed during a recent visit was deeply upsetting. After an Asian woman completed her purchase and exited the store, I overheard a staff member say something to the effect of “she was disgusting and dirty.”

This comment was unprovoked, racially charged, and entirely unacceptable. Whether it was meant as a “joke” or not, such remarks contribute to the toxic environment that Asian communities often face, especially in a retail space that should treat all customers with dignity.

I strongly urge C.O. Bigelow to investigate this incident seriously, provide anti-bias training for staff, and reinforce a standard of respect and inclusion.

As a witness to this behavior, I felt morally compelled to speak up. Silence enables prejudice. Customers...