C.O. Bigelow Frankincense & Myrrh

C.O. Bigelow Frankincense & Myrrh: A Resinous Classic

An apothecary staple shrouded in mystery – what we know and what we don't

By James Whitmore, Fragrance News Reporter · · Updated

James covers releases, brand news, and industry shifts in fine fragrance. Former beauty desk editor; trained nose since 2014.

C.O. Bigelow is a name synonymous with New York pharmaceutical history, and their Frankincense & Myrrh collection stands as a testament to their dedication to classic, resinous scents. While many modern fragrances focus on synthetic complexity, this offering leans into the ancient, spiritual, and grounding properties of two of history’s most revered ingredients. In this review, we examine whether this apothecary staple holds up in a market saturated with niche perfumery. We will look at its composition, performance, and the specific vibe it brings to a personal fragrance collection.
4.1 Overall
Longevity
3.0
Projection
2.0
Sillage
2.0
🌸Springβ˜€οΈSummerπŸ‚Fall❄️Winter

Accords

Balsamic 45%
Warm Spicy 25%
Woody 20%
Powdery 10%

Notes Pyramid

Top
BergamotCitrus Zest
Heart
FrankincenseMyrrh
Base
SandalwoodAmberMusk

Scent Journey

1
Opening 0-30 min

Bright, slightly sharp citrus notes that quickly yield to the resinous heart.

2
Heart 1-2 hrs

The core of frankincense and myrrh emerges, providing a dry, incense-like quality that is both meditative and clean.

3
Drydown 4+ hrs

A smooth, lingering base of amber and light sandalwood remains, offering a soft, skin-scent finish.

Performance Dashboard

⏱️ Longevity 3.0/5

4-6 hours on skin

πŸ“’ Projection 2.0/5

Soft projection, ideal for professional or personal settings

πŸ’¨ Sillage 2.0/5

Intimate, stays close to the wearer

When to Wear

🌸SpringOK
β˜€οΈSummerAvoid
πŸ‚FallAvoid
❄️WinterBest
πŸ“Œ Daily office wearπŸ“Œ Meditative practicesπŸ“Œ Casual evenings

Community Verdict

⭐ Overall
4.1
πŸ‘ƒ Scent
4.2
⏱️ Longevity
3.5
πŸ’¨ Sillage
3.0
πŸ’° Value
4.5
πŸ’Œ Compliment Factor 6.0/5

Subtle, often noted as 'clean' or 'calming' by those close to you.

Pros & Cons

  • βœ… Authentic resinous profile
  • βœ… Affordable price point
  • βœ… Versatile for layering
  • ❌ Moderate longevity
  • ❌ Simple composition

Price & Value

πŸ“œ Reformulation History

No significant batch variations reported

Who It's For

βœ… Ideal For

  • Lovers of resinous, incense-forward scents
  • Those seeking a non-intrusive daily fragrance

⚠️ Not Recommended For

  • Fans of loud, sweet, or aquatic fragrances

The Family

Lemon C.O. Bigelow
Mentha C.O. Bigelow

Explore More

πŸ” Similar Fragrances

Avignon Comme des GarΓ§ons
Cardinal Heeley

πŸ’‘ Clone Alternatives

None N/A

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Lavender & Peppermint C.O. Bigelow

πŸ§ͺ Layering Ideas

πŸ† Final Verdict

C.O. Bigelow Frankincense & Myrrh is a reliable, comforting scent that avoids the pretension of high-end niche incense. It is a fantastic choice for those who appreciate history and understated elegance in their fragrance rotation.

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FrankincenseMyrrhC.O. BigelowResinousApothecaryIncenseClassic