The Art Of Scent: Aftershave Vs. Cologne

There is often confusion over whether aftershave can be used as cologne and vice versa. While the two products are distinct, with aftershave being a skincare product designed to be applied directly to the skin after shaving, and cologne being a lightly scented fragrance, it is possible to use aftershave as cologne if you want a very light fragrance. However, cologne cannot be used as a substitute for aftershave due to its lack of antibacterial and astringent properties.

Scented aftershave and cologne can be used together

If you want to use both, it is best to use an unscented or lightly-scented aftershave that will not clash with your cologne. You can also opt for an aftershave and cologne from the same product line, as they are designed to complement each other. Another option is to mix a few sprays of cologne into an unscented aftershave balm to create a matching scent.

However, it is important to note that cologne does not have the same antibacterial and astringent properties as aftershave, so it cannot replace the skincare benefits of aftershave. Additionally, applying too many layers of fragrance can be overwhelming and may not allow the individual scents to develop naturally on your skin.

Ultimately, the decision to use both aftershave and cologne together is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer to use only one or the other, while others like to layer their scents for a more complex fragrance.

Aftershave is a skincare product, cologne is a fragrance

Aftershave and cologne are two different products that can be used together or separately as part of a skincare and fragrance routine.

Aftershave is a skincare product

Aftershave is designed to be applied to the skin after shaving. Its primary function is to disinfect and protect the skin, helping to calm and soothe any irritation, damage, or redness. Aftershave is usually a balm or lotion, and it contains a low concentration of aromatic compounds (1-3%) so the scent is very mild and fleeting. While some aftershaves are fragranced with popular scents such as sandalwood or citrus, the aroma is not strong enough to linger or cause severe irritation. Aftershave is an essential step in a skincare routine if you want to finish your shave with healthy and radiant skin.

Cologne is a fragrance

Cologne, or eau de cologne, is a product designed to make you smell good. It has a stronger scent than aftershave, with an aromatic concentration of 2-4%, and in some cases, as high as 7%. The fragrance is designed to linger for a short amount of time and will need to be topped up regularly. Cologne does not offer any skincare benefits and is not designed to be applied to the face. Cologne is one of the most popular fragrance options for men and is often applied to the neck, wrists, and pulse points on the body.

Using aftershave and cologne together

You can use aftershave and cologne together as part of your grooming routine, but it is important to be mindful of potential scent clashes. If you want a subtle fragrance, you can use aftershave on its own, but cologne should not be used as a replacement for aftershave as it won't address any irritation from shaving. If you want a stronger fragrance that lasts throughout the day, you can combine aftershave with cologne or another fragrance product such as eau de toilette or eau de parfum. When combining products, it is recommended to use an unscented or lightly-scented aftershave to avoid scent clashes.

Cologne lasts longer than aftershave

Cologne does indeed last longer than aftershave. While aftershaves are primarily designed to soothe, protect and nourish freshly shaved skin, colognes are designed to be longer-lasting fragrances.

Aftershave is a post-shave product, typically applied to the face and neck, with a low fragrance concentration of around 1-3%. Its purpose is to disinfect and heal the skin, and its scent usually lasts for about an hour, though some can last for two to three hours.

On the other hand, colognes have a higher fragrance oil concentration of 2-4%, giving them a stronger and longer-lasting scent. They are designed to be worn as fragrances and are typically applied to the pulse points of the body, such as the wrists, neck, and behind the ears.

The longevity of a fragrance also depends on its type and concentration. Pure parfum, eau de parfum, eau de toilette, and cologne are listed from strongest to weakest. Cologne, being a weaker concentration, will not last as long as a pure parfum or eau de parfum. However, compared to aftershave, cologne will provide a longer-lasting scent.

Additionally, skin type can also play a role in how long a fragrance lasts. It is said that those with oily skin will find that fragrances last longer, while those with dry skin may find that scents do not last as long.

If you are looking for a longer-lasting fragrance, cologne is the better option compared to aftershave.

How to apply aftershave

Applying aftershave is an important step in your shaving routine to ensure you have healthy, moisturised skin. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply aftershave:

• Prepare your skin: Wash your face thoroughly with lukewarm water to ensure loose hairs and excess dirt are removed. The cool water will begin to close your pores after the heat from the shower and prepare your skin for the aftershave.
• Pour the aftershave: Pour a couple of drops of aftershave into your palm. If you have a shaker top, shake it first, or pour a teaspoon amount of aftershave into one palm and pat it over to the other.
• Apply the aftershave: Gently apply the aftershave to your face and neck, massaging in a downward motion. Make sure you get an even coverage to soothe any redness. Do not rinse away, the aftershave will soon soak in and do its work.
• Amount of aftershave: You don't need to overdo it by lathering your face with a ton of aftershave. Apply enough aftershave to gently moisturise and treat your skin. If you're unsure of how much this should be, start with a small amount — you can always add more.
• Absorb the aftershave: Aftershaves are designed to moisturise and soak into your skin, so after you massage it into your face, you're done! Unless your aftershave specifically tells you to wash it off, you don't need to. Most aftershaves are simply left on the face.

It is important to note that aftershave is designed for use after shaving and should be applied to shaved, sensitive areas – generally, the face and neck. Its antiseptic properties will keep open pores and cuts clean, while its delicate scent will soothe and refresh.

How to apply cologne

Cologne is a lightly scented variation of men's fragrance. It is typically marketed to men and only lasts a few hours. Applying cologne is a seemingly simple part of your grooming routine, but to do it well, requires some thought.

• Spray at a distance: Avoid spritzing too close to the skin when applying cologne. Hold the bottle about 15cm away from the skin to create a mist that diffuses it over a good proportion of the skin area. This allows the cologne to mingle with your natural scent, rather than masking it.
• Do not rub: Do not rub the cologne into your skin, as this breaks down the scent's notes, causing them to evaporate too soon and reducing the cologne's longevity. Instead, gently dab it onto your other wrist if you wish to transfer the scent.
• Absorb into the skin: Applying cologne after a hot shower is ideal as the steam from the shower opens your skin's pores, allowing the scent to be absorbed better. This reduces the rate at which the scent is released, making it last longer.
• Apply to pulse points: Spray cologne to areas where the veins run close to the skin's surface and emit more heat, such as the base of the throat, the neck, and the wrists. The warmth from these areas will help to lift the scent and react with your body heat to release the fragrance throughout the day.
• Less is more: Stick to three or four spritzes and layer the scent later in the day to maintain a subtle aroma. Using more cologne will not increase its staying power—it will just be overpowering.
• Time it right: The best time to apply cologne is right after a shower when drying off. Hold the bottle about 3-5 inches from the skin for even distribution.
• Warm areas: Apply cologne to warm areas of the body, including behind the ear, the shoulder, the inner elbow, the forearm, the wrist, the neck, and the cheek. The heat from these areas will help to activate the scent throughout the day.

Some people choose to use cologne and aftershave together, while others prefer to use one or the other. If you use both, it is recommended to apply the aftershave first and then the cologne. However, be mindful that the scents may conflict with each other. If you want your cologne to be the dominant fragrance, opt for an unscented or lightly-scented aftershave.

Frequently asked questions