Aboard Ilma, men’s grooming transforms into an elevated ritual, combining expert technique with sustainable luxury through Pisterzi Italian Grooming Art products.
Aboard Ilma, men’s grooming transforms into an elevated ritual, combining expert technique with sustainable luxury through Pisterzi Italian Grooming Art products. Founder Gian Antonio Pisterzi shares the inspirations behind his brand and the unique services he offers.
Nothing is better than a perfect shave, but the skill in that cannot be underestimated. As Ilma’s onboard barber, Jay, explained, "I recently did a shave and haircut for a guest who said he’d had many shaves back home. The following day, he asked me to film a video with my step-by-step process to get the haircut lines I had created. This moment served as proof that I really made a difference."
This transformative experience is exactly what our guests should expect, especially with the use of sustainable Pisterzi Italian Grooming Art products. We spoke to founder Gian Antonio Pisterzi to find out what inspired his brand, what to expect from a true barbering experience and what products he recommends most highly.
How did your training as a boy shape you?
Embarking on my barbering journey at the age of eight laid a critical foundation for both my professional and personal development. Those early weekends spent in a traditional barbershop outside Rome were an immersive education in the precision, discipline and craftsmanship that define this profession.
I quickly understood the importance of listening, truly understanding clients’ individual needs and building trust through genuine connection. Each service was a moment to refine my skills and deepen my expertise across grooming, hair and skin care.
How did you move from training to creating your own brand?
At the age of 21, I moved to London to further refine my craft. Shortly thereafter, I joined Steiner as a barber on a Costa Deliziosa cruise ship, where I gained invaluable international experience. This dedication to my profession led to working with prestigious brands such as Dolce & Gabbana and Acqua di Parma. After extensive training, I needed to create something of my own. I was finally ready to bring my dream to life — a special place where people could not only get a haircut and take care of their appearance but also enjoy a private moment for themselves.
My passion stems from a deep-rooted belief in the importance of self-care, not only as a form of personal grooming but as an expression of self-respect and well-being. Equally important to me is the responsibility we have toward the environment. From the products we create to the materials we use, I strive to ensure that inside and outside our organization, respecting our planet and promoting sustainable practices are the key priorities.
What are the most unique services that you offer?
Our most exclusive treatment, ‘La Dolce Vita’ by Pisterzi, is a 90-minute experience tailored for the discerning client, offering a rare opportunity to indulge in self-care, combining elegance and sophistication with the art of taking time for oneself. It seamlessly blends the timeless artistry of barbering with bespoke treatments, including a Tailored Haircut, Pisterzi Wet Shave or beard trim, and a personalized facial with a face and scalp massage.
Which are your favorite products available onboard?
Two products I would propose for gentlemen on board are the Solid Serum and the Shaving Care Cream, as they embody the perfect synergy of multi functionality, practicality, skin protection and results.
Infused with coconut oil, black pepper fruits and ginseng extract, the Solid Serum delivers an “energy boost” to the skin. Apply it as a pre-shave treatment to prevent irritation, or as an intensive beard and facial moisturizer. Its nourishing properties leave the beard softer, more manageable and, when used as an overnight mask, it ensures a radiant and healthy appearance by morning.
The Shaving Care Cream redefines the traditional shaving gel, boasting 95% natural ingredients. This product forms a protective barrier on the skin, allowing the razor to glide effortlessly while minimizing redness. Enhanced with Trealix and rosemary extract, it deeply hydrates, leaving the skin smooth, refreshed and impeccably soft post-shave.
Our approach transforms grooming into a luxurious, multi-sensory ritual that lingers with our guests long after they leave our ateliers, reflecting our commitment to providing more than just grooming. It’s a complete journey of refinement and well-being.