Cologne Shopping At Cvs: A Comprehensive Guide

CVS offers a wide range of colognes and perfumes for men and women. The pharmacy's selection includes fragrances from popular brands such as Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Dior, and Ralph Lauren. With options available in-store and online, CVS makes it convenient for customers to find their signature scent or a gift for someone else.

Cologne for men

CVS offers a wide range of colognes for men, with options to suit different tastes and occasions. Whether you're looking for a light and fresh scent for everyday wear or something more bold and sensual for special events, you can find a variety of choices at CVS.

Popular Options at CVS

• Euphoria by Calvin Klein – This cologne is a great choice for everyday wear, with its refreshing burst of ginger and pepper, complemented by aromatic notes and cedar. As it dries, the scent becomes richer with notes of Brazilian redwood, amber and suede.
• Eternity by Calvin Klein – A classic aromatic fougere cologne, Eternity blends herbal notes of lavender, sage, basil and coriander with citrus and fresh flowers. It's an ideal option for formal events and business meetings.
• Ck One by Calvin Klein – Described as a fun and energetic scent, this cologne is suitable for any occasion. It's a popular choice, with many customers complimenting the fragrance.
• Acqua Di Gio by Giorgio Armani – This cologne is a great choice for those who want a light and fresh scent. It's perfect for summertime or a day at the office.
• Versace Eros Flame Parfum Spray for Men – This cologne is a bold and sensual option, perfect for date nights or special occasions.
• Armani Code by Giorgio Armani – A classic and elegant choice, this cologne is suitable for a variety of occasions.
• Gucci Guilty Pour Homme by Gucci – This cologne offers a sophisticated and masculine scent, making it ideal for important situations like dates or meetings.
• Dior Fahrenheit Eau De Toilette Spray For Men – A well-known and popular choice, this cologne is perfect for those who want a distinctive and memorable fragrance.
• Lacoste Essential Eau De Toilette Cologne for Men – This cologne is a great option for those who want a sporty and energetic fragrance.
• Hugo Boss Man Eau De Toilette Natural Spray – With its woody and spicy notes, this cologne is a sophisticated and masculine choice.

Tips for Choosing and Applying Cologne

When choosing a cologne, consider the different fragrance families, such as woodsy, chypre, citrus, leather, oriental, aromatic, and aquatic. Select a scent that works well with your body chemistry and the preferences of those around you.

When applying cologne, spritz it directly onto your skin, focusing on your pulse points – your neck, behind your ears, and your wrists. You can also spray the centre of your chest to let the fragrance waft up naturally. Applying cologne right after a shower and using a moisturiser can help the scent last longer.

Applying cologne

Apply to Clean Skin

It is best to apply cologne immediately after showering, as this ensures that your skin is free of any other scents and that your pores are open, which helps the scent absorb better. Make sure your skin is completely dry before spraying cologne.

Hold the Bottle 3-6 Inches Away

When spraying cologne, hold the bottle about 3 to 6 inches away from your body. Holding the bottle any closer may result in over-application, while spraying from further away may result in under-application.

Target Pulse Points and Heated Areas

Apply cologne to your pulse points and other heated areas of your body, such as your neck, chest, wrists, forearms, and behind your ears. These areas emit heat, which helps diffuse the scent throughout the day and allows it to blend with your body chemistry to create your signature scent.

Start with a Light Application

When applying cologne, less is more. Choose one area, such as the neck or forearms, and start with one spray. If you find that the scent fades quickly, choose another area and spray there the next time you apply. You can always add more, but it's important to avoid over-application.

Re-apply if Needed

Depending on the type of cologne you use, you may need to re-apply, especially if you are going out in the evening. When re-applying, dab a small amount onto your pulse points.

Avoid Common Mistakes

There are a few mistakes to avoid when applying cologne. Firstly, do not spray it onto your clothing, as this prevents it from mixing with your natural oils and developing its unique scent. Secondly, do not splash the cologne onto your skin, as this can lead to over-application. Thirdly, avoid spraying a mist cloud and walking through it, as most of the cologne will end up on the floor rather than your body. Fourthly, do not rub the cologne into your skin, as this can make the scent fade faster. Finally, be mindful of the amount you apply to avoid over-application.

Types of cologne

There are several types of cologne, each with a distinct scent and concentration of fragrance oils. Here are some of the most common types:

Parfum

Parfum, or perfume extract, has the highest concentration of fragrance oils, typically ranging from 20% to 30%. It is the most expensive type of cologne due to its high concentration, and it tends to be heavier and oilier. Parfum is long-lasting, with a strong scent that can last up to 24 hours. It is a good choice for those with sensitive skin as it contains less alcohol. An example of a parfum is Tom Ford Ombre Leather.

Eau de Parfum (EDP)

Eau de Parfum has a slightly lower concentration of fragrance oils, ranging from 15% to 20%. It is less expensive than parfum and has a slightly higher alcohol content. EDPs can last for 6 to 10 hours and are a good balance between longevity and a lighter scent. An example of an EDP is Gucci Guilty Pour Homme.

Eau de Toilette (EDT)

Eau de Toilette typically contains between 5% and 15% fragrance oil. It is a more affordable option and is a popular choice due to its lighter and fresher scent. EDTs usually last for 3 to 4 hours and are ideal for summer as the heat intensifies the scent. An example of an EDT is Jimmy Choo Man.

Eau de Cologne (EDC)

Eau de Cologne has a low concentration of fragrance oils, typically between 2% and 4%. It is a lightweight and invigorating option that usually lasts for a couple of hours. EDCs are perfect for those who want a subtle scent or for daytime use. An example of an EDC is Dior Homme Cologne.

Eau Fraiche

Eau Fraiche colognes have a very low concentration of fragrance oils, typically around 2%. They are aromatic, green, and citrusy, and are quite rare. These colognes are subtle and ultra-light, perfect for those who want a gentle scent. An example of an Eau Fraiche is YSL Y Eau Fraiche.

Perfume Oils

Perfume oils are a unique type of cologne that combines fragrant essential oils with carrier oils such as olive, coconut, or jojoba oil. They typically have an essential oil concentration of around 20%. Perfume oils are alcohol-free, making them suitable for sensitive skin, and are more affordable. They can last for up to 6 hours. An example of a perfume oil is Pure Instinct Roll-On.

Each type of cologne offers something different in terms of scent, longevity, and price. It's important to choose a cologne that suits your personal style, budget, and the occasion you'll be wearing it.

Cologne vs body spray

While both body spray and cologne are designed to help you smell great, they fulfil different roles. Body spray is a subtler cousin of cologne, packing just enough fragrance to give you a quick blast of freshness without overwhelming your senses. It is a lighter fragrance, meaning it is less concentrated and great for an all-over spritz.

Body sprays are also more diluted and have a significantly lower concentration of fragrance oils than all types of perfumes. The scent of a body spray is milder and does not last as long as cologne. Body spray is also applied directly to the body, not to your clothes.

Cologne, on the other hand, is a perfume with a high concentration of fragrance oils. This high concentration is what gives cologne its superior staying power and depth of scent. It is a more sophisticated option, designed to make more of a statement and gives off a richer, more complex aroma.

Cologne is a longer-lasting choice than body spray, which may need to be reapplied often. It is also seen as a more sophisticated choice than body spray, making it ideal for important situations like dates or meetings.

However, the debate of body spray vs cologne ultimately comes down to your own personal preference.

Where to buy cologne

If you are looking to buy cologne, there are a few options to consider. You can choose to shop online or in-store, depending on your preference and convenience. Here are some options for where to buy cologne:

Online Options:

• CVS: CVS offers a wide variety of men's colognes that can be conveniently shipped directly to your home or office. You can explore different brands, scents, and price ranges to find your favorite fragrance.
• Other Online Retailers: In addition to CVS, there are numerous online retailers that specialize in fragrances, beauty products, or personal care items. These websites often provide detailed descriptions, customer reviews, and recommendations to help you make an informed choice.

In-Store Options:

• CVS: If you prefer a more hands-on shopping experience, you can visit your local CVS store. Many CVS locations offer a selection of men's cologne products, and you can check the availability online or give them a call before you head out.
• Department Stores: Department stores typically have dedicated sections for fragrances, including colognes. You can explore different brands and test out the fragrances to find the one that suits your taste.
• Specialty Fragrance Shops: These stores offer a more specialized selection of colognes and perfumes, often with knowledgeable staff who can guide you in finding your signature scent.

When purchasing cologne, it is essential to consider factors such as scent preference, price, and brand reputation. You may want to test out different fragrances to find the one that appeals to your sense of smell and suits your personality. Additionally, reading reviews or seeking recommendations from trusted sources can help you make a satisfying choice.

Frequently asked questions