Does Cologne Have An Expiry Date?

There are many factors that can contribute to cologne not smelling as intended. Cologne can spoil and smell differently over time, especially if it is exposed to heat, humidity, and light. Cologne should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place and used within five years of purchase. Additionally, skin chemistry, including pH levels, diet, and hormones, can affect how cologne interacts with the skin and how it smells. Stress, medication, and age can also play a role in how a scent manifests on an individual.

Storing cologne in a hot, steamy bathroom

The bathroom is subject to dramatic temperature changes and humidity, which can affect the quality of cologne. The humidity from the shower or bath will oxidize the more delicate ingredients, like citruses and florals, causing the scent to smell off or change colour, or both.

One person who stores their fragrances in a closet in the bathroom has not noticed any adverse effects, but another reports that some bottles have become ugly due to the dampness. The coloured "film" covering the surface of some glass bottles can start to come off, and mould can be an issue.

It is recommended to store cologne in its original box in a cool, dry place, such as a nightstand drawer.

Cologne has expired

Cologne can indeed make you smell bad if it has expired. While it's not dangerous to use, expired cologne will smell different, and not in a good way.

The average shelf life of a fragrance is around three to five years, but this depends on the cologne's chemical composition, how it's stored, and its scent. Some colognes can last less than a year, while others can last upwards of 10 years.

How to Tell if Cologne Has Expired

• Change in smell: The most obvious way to tell is to test the scent. If it smells sour, metallic, or astringent, it has likely expired.
• Change in appearance: Check if the colour has changed. A darker colour or a yellow tint could indicate that the cologne has oxidised and expired.
• Expiration date: Many colognes will have an expiration date on the packaging, either as a batch code or a PAO (Period After Opening) number.
• Crystallisation: Small crystals forming on the dispenser could indicate that the cologne is oxidising.
• Opacity: If the cologne appears cloudier or more opaque than when you bought it, it could be a sign of oxidation.

How to Store Cologne

To extend the life of your cologne, store it in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a bedroom drawer or closet. Keep it in its original box and container to protect it from exposure to air, temperature fluctuations, and sunlight, all of which can cause the cologne to expire faster.

Dry skin

One strategy is to moisturize the area with an unscented lotion before applying cologne. This will help to protect the integrity of the scent and lock in the aroma for a longer duration. You can also try using a little Vaseline on your wrists and behind your ears before spritzing to lock in the scent for longer. Additionally, applying cologne right after a shower can help to increase its longevity.

When choosing a moisturizer, opt for one that is heavy and oil-based, such as pure coconut oil or shea butter. Avoid moisturizers that create a "barrier" on the skin, such as those containing mineral oil or petroleum. It is also important to moisturize right after showering and to avoid using harsh soaps.

Exfoliation can also help to improve the longevity of cologne on dry skin. However, it should be done gently and not too frequently, as over-exfoliation can irritate the skin. Sugar scrubs are a good option, as they are effective yet gentle enough not to cause cuts or irritation.

Finally, consider the type of cologne you are using. Citrus and lighter floral perfumes tend to disappear faster because their molecules are smaller and evaporate more quickly. In contrast, woods, resins, and tobacco have heavier molecules and thus evaporate more slowly, resulting in longer-lasting scents.

Layering with other scents

Layering cologne with other scents is an art, and when done right, it can result in a unique and exclusive signature scent. The key to successful layering is understanding the different layers of individual fragrances. Top notes are what you smell right after spraying, and they usually consist of sparkling and vivacious fresh notes. The middle note is the heart of the fragrance, which is usually warmer and softer. The bottom note is what develops last and stays with you for hours, long after the top notes have disappeared.

When layering, it is essential to start with the heaviest fragrance first and layer lighter fragrances on top. For example, if you are using a bold perfume spray, layer fragrances that interact well with its notes. You can also try using different types of products, such as perfume spray, body oil, body powder, or body butter, as each releases scent at its own pace. Vapours like sprays will be strong initially and fade faster than oils, which are lighter but persist longer on the skin.

It is also recommended to always incorporate a moisturiser when layering. Perfume has difficulty adhering to dry skin, causing it to fade quickly. Therefore, ensure your skin is moisturised with a scented body oil or body butter before adding a perfume spray. Additionally, start with fragrances in the same olfactory group. For instance, pair a rose dusting powder with a moonflower perfume oil, or a woodsy santal perfume spray with sandalwood dusting powder.

If you want to be more adventurous, try using contrasting scents for originality. Vanilla adds a sweet creaminess, especially to woody fragrances. Citrus notes add brightness to any floral scent. You can also combine two fragrances with a common note, such as jasmine, and build from there. Alternatively, combine two or more opposite fragrances, such as spice and vanilla. There are infinite combinations to explore, so have fun experimenting!

Wearing cologne during the wrong season

While cologne can be an important part of a man's personal style, it can also be a source of worry, especially when it comes to wearing the wrong scent during the wrong season. But does wearing cologne during the wrong season really matter?

The short answer is no. Ultimately, the most important thing is how you feel about the scent. However, it is worth noting that certain scents are typically associated with specific seasons. For example, winter scents tend to be heavier and more intense, while summer scents are usually lighter and fresher. Wearing a heavy winter cologne during a hot summer day may not only feel uncomfortable for you, but it can also be off-putting to those around you. Similarly, a light and refreshing summer cologne may not mix well with the heady aromas of winter.

That being said, the "right" season to wear a particular cologne is not set in stone. The seasons can vary depending on your geographical location. For instance, summer in Japan is very different from summer in northern Europe, which can influence the type of cologne that is most suitable. Additionally, individual preferences and self-confidence play a role in cologne selection. Some people may prefer to stick to seasonal norms, while others may enjoy the challenge of discovering new fragrances and intensities that suit their personal style, regardless of the season.

To avoid making "mistakes" when wearing cologne, it is recommended to test different fragrances and find the ones that you truly enjoy. Sampling and testing colognes can help you understand how they react with your body chemistry and how they evolve over time. You can also ask for the opinions of close friends or family members to ensure that your cologne application is appropriate. Ultimately, the most important thing is to wear what makes you feel confident and happy, while also being considerate of others.

Frequently asked questions