Can Vaseline And Cologne Mix? The Surprising Truth

There are various opinions on whether mixing cologne with Vaseline is effective. Some people claim that it helps the cologne last longer and smell more potent. On the other hand, some people believe that it dilutes the cologne's odour and affects its notes. Additionally, some people are concerned about the potential skin irritation and pore-clogging effects of Vaseline.

Does it make cologne last longer?

Mixing cologne with Vaseline is a popular "hack" that has been around for decades. The science behind it is that Vaseline is essentially an oil, and its 'oil phase' will bind or mix with the 'oil phase' within the cologne. With Vaseline staying on the skin, it acts as a coupling agent or fixative for the cologne, increasing adhesion or 'substantivity', a term used in perfumery.

There are several ways to use Vaseline to make cologne last longer. One method is to apply the cologne first and then layer the Vaseline over the top. This technique is known as "Vaseline slugging" and can also be used as a final step in an evening skincare routine to lock in moisture. Another method is to apply the Vaseline to the skin first and then add the cologne. This approach is known as "layering" the cologne underneath the Vaseline.

There is plenty of anecdotal evidence and some scientific studies to support the claim that mixing cologne with Vaseline makes it last longer. A study by researchers at the University of London found that Vaseline acts as a barrier to the skin, preventing the cologne oils from evaporating as quickly, resulting in a longer-lasting fragrance. The study also found that Vaseline did not affect the smell of the cologne. However, some people have tried this method and reported that it did not work for them, while others found that it made the cologne smell weaker.

It is important to note that mixing cologne with Vaseline can alter the olfactory profile of the cologne, making it duller, thinner, and less complete or complex. Vaseline also has its own odour that can interfere with the cologne's scent. Additionally, Vaseline may not be suitable for all skin types as it can clog pores and dry out the skin over time.

Some alternatives to using Vaseline include applying an unscented lotion or oil, spraying the cologne on covered areas of the body (such as under a sleeve), using an Eau de Parfum instead of an Eau de Toilette, or choosing a "heavy" cologne with dominant base notes that evaporate slowly.

Does it clog pores?

Mixing cologne with Vaseline is a popular hack for making fragrances last longer. However, concerns about whether it clogs pores have been raised.

Vaseline is a petroleum jelly-based product that is occlusive in nature, meaning it forms a barrier on the skin's surface to lock in moisture. While Vaseline itself isn't known to actively clog pores, it can potentially create a barrier that may trap existing oils, dead skin cells, or impurities. This could lead to breakouts for people with acne-prone or sensitive skin, especially if used in excessive amounts or if the skin is prone to congestion.

On the other hand, Vaseline Healing Jelly is made from 100% healing jelly, which is non-comedogenic and does not clog pores. It is purified to remove any impurities that could negatively affect the health or appearance of the skin. The thick texture of Vaseline provides a good barrier between the skin and the elements, protecting the skin while sealing in moisture.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends applying Vaseline to parts of the face that are prone to dryness, such as the lips and eyelids, but does not recommend it for people with acne-prone skin.

Therefore, while Vaseline Healing Jelly is specifically designed not to clog pores, the application of cologne-mixed Vaseline may depend on individual skin types and the specific ingredients of the cologne. It is important to pay attention to how your skin responds and to remove the product if any irritation occurs.

Does it affect the notes of the cologne?

Mixing cologne with Vaseline can affect its notes, depending on the method used.

Some people suggest applying cologne first and then layering Vaseline on top. This method is known as "slugging" and can help to lock in moisture and prevent water loss. While this method can make the cologne last longer, it may also reduce its projection and sillage. Additionally, Vaseline has its own odour that can interfere with the perfume profile, potentially making the cologne smell weaker and duller.

Others suggest mixing melted Vaseline with cologne and then hardening the mixture. This method can also make the cologne last longer, but it may dilute the scent. The effectiveness of this method depends on the ratio of cologne to Vaseline used. A higher ratio of cologne to Vaseline may result in a stronger scent. However, this method can be messy and time-consuming.

Some people recommend using an unscented lotion or oil instead of Vaseline, as these will not interfere with the fragrance of the cologne.

Does it work better with cold or hot Vaseline?

There is some debate about whether mixing cologne with Vaseline works better when the Vaseline is hot or cold. Some people claim that melting the Vaseline before mixing in the cologne will help the fragrance last longer, while others argue that it is a waste of time and product.

Those who support melting the Vaseline first argue that the oils in the Vaseline help to prolong the scent of the cologne. However, it is important to note that this method will dilute the perfume odour. This technique may be useful for individuals with odour sensitivity but may not be the best option for those seeking a strong fragrance. To increase the potency of the cologne, one could consider increasing the ratio of cologne to Vaseline or using essential oils instead of cologne.

On the other hand, some people claim that mixing cologne with Vaseline, regardless of the temperature of the Vaseline, will not work. They argue that the Vaseline will only dilute the cologne and that the scent will be weak. Additionally, there is a risk of making a mess when working with hot Vaseline and cologne.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of mixing cologne with Vaseline, whether hot or cold, may depend on individual preferences and skin type. Some people may find that it helps to prolong the scent of their cologne, while others may not notice any difference. It is worth noting that Vaseline itself has a distinct odour that may alter the smell of the cologne. Therefore, it is recommended to perform a small test before committing to this method.

If one wishes to try this method, it is suggested to use a small amount of cold Vaseline and mix in several millilitres of cologne, ensuring that the cologne is not atomized. This mixture can then be gently heated to a maximum of 40 degrees Celsius to avoid damaging the fragrance.

Are there any alternatives to Vaseline?

Mixing cologne with Vaseline is a popular hack for making perfume last longer. However, it dilutes the cologne's odour and may not be suitable for everyone. Vaseline also has a strong odour of its own, which can alter the scent of the cologne.

There are several alternatives to Vaseline that can be used to make perfume last longer. One option is to use an unscented moisturiser. Applying a small amount of hand moisturiser or an unscented body lotion before spraying on cologne can help to increase its longevity. It is recommended to let the moisturiser sit for a while before applying the cologne. Another alternative is to use a product like CeraVe, which is similar to Vaseline but does not have a strong odour. Some people also suggest using essential oils or blending with jojoba oil or beeswax to make an oil or solid perfume. To achieve the desired concentration, it is recommended to aim for a minimum of 5% oil concentration, preferably 20-30%.

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