Why Excessive Cologne Is A Stinky Business

While cologne can be a great way to express oneself or leave a good impression, it's easy to go overboard and apply too much. Overapplication of cologne can lead to an overpowering or unpleasant scent, which can be off-putting to those around you. The key to smelling good is finding the right balance and knowing how much is too much. There are several factors that can affect how cologne interacts with your skin, such as stress, diet, medication, and age. Additionally, storing cologne in a hot, steamy bathroom can alter its scent over time. Knowing how to properly store and apply cologne is essential to ensuring it smells as intended.

Storing cologne in a hot, steamy bathroom

If you have space issues and your bathroom is well-ventilated, cool, and dark, then storing cologne in a bathroom cabinet may be okay. However, if your bathroom gets hot and humid, it is not the best storage condition. Colognes do better in cooler temperatures that don't fluctuate too much.

To keep your cologne in top condition, store it in its original box in a cool, dry place, like a bedroom or hallway closet, or even a drawer.

Cologne has expired

If your cologne has expired, it's probably time to say goodbye. Cologne can last, when stored properly, about two to five years—sometimes less, and sometimes even more. You'll know it's turned when it changes colour (usually getting darker), when it smells sour or vinegary, or when you need to apply twice as much to achieve the same level of scent.

How to Store Cologne

Heat, humidity, and bright light will break down cologne faster than anything, usually by changing the composition of the scent through oxidation. Instead, store your cologne in its original box in a cool, dry place, like your nightstand drawer. The bathroom is one of the worst places to store cologne, as the temperature fluctuates and there is a lot of humidity.

What to Do with Expired Cologne

The best way to get rid of an expired fragrance is to pour the contents out of the bottle into a sink and rinse the drain with hot water and soap to remove oils. Then, recycle the bottle.

Dry skin

It is also important to note that the scent of cologne can be affected by various factors such as heat, humidity, and bright light. Storing cologne in a cool, dry place, such as a nightstand drawer, can help maintain its original scent. Additionally, the age of the cologne, skin chemistry, and other competing scents can also impact how the cologne smells.

Layering with competing scents

Layering fragrances is a great way to create a unique scent that is personal to you. However, it can be tricky to get right, and it's easy to end up with a confusing or overwhelming combination. Here are some tips to help you layer fragrances successfully:

• Understand the different layers in fragrances. The top note is what you smell right away, usually consisting of fresh, sparkling notes. The middle note is the heart of the fragrance and is usually warmer and softer. The bottom note develops last and stays with you for hours, long after the top notes have disappeared.
• When layering, start with the heavier, more complex scent first, and then add a lighter, less complex scent on top. This will help to ensure that the lighter scent isn't overpowered.
• Try combining two fragrances that have a common note, such as jasmine, or if you're feeling adventurous, try combining two opposite fragrances, such as a spice and vanilla.
• Avoid combining two scents that are too dark and heady, as this can be overwhelming.
• Keep it simple by using a maximum of three scents when layering.
• Layer different types of products, such as perfume spray, body oil, body powder, or body butter. Each product releases scent at its own pace, so layering them will create a fragrance that lingers and evolves over time.
• Always use a moisturizer as a base. Perfume has a hard time sticking to dry skin and will fade quickly without a moisturized base.
• If you're nervous about causing a strong or unpleasant fragrance combination, stick to layering products that share common notes. For example, if your eau de toilette contains vetiver, black pepper, and sandalwood, a black pepper body wash will likely complement it rather than work against it.
• Experiment with different combinations and don't be afraid to try something new. You might be surprised by the pleasing results you can create.

Wearing it during the wrong season

The type of cologne you wear should be suited to the season. A heavy winter cologne might feel cloying during a hot summer night, while a refreshing summer scent might not mingle nicely with winter's heady aromas, like that of a roaring fireplace. You don't have to switch up your cologne every season, but it's good to keep at least two in rotation so you have flexibility.

For example, in the summer, opt for a cologne with lighter, fresher notes. Citrus or aquatic scents are perfect for hot weather as they are crisp and energising. You could try something with notes of bergamot, lemon, or grapefruit, which have a bright, zesty character. Alternatively, a scent with marine or ozonic notes can evoke the freshness of the ocean and pair well with the summer sun.

In the winter, you can afford to be a little bolder with your cologne choices. Spicy or woody fragrances are a good option, as they add a touch of warmth and depth to your scent profile. Look for colognes with notes of cinnamon, clove, or sandalwood. Leather or tobacco notes can also add an interesting, sophisticated edge to your fragrance.

Transition seasons like spring and autumn may call for something in between. Floral or fruity colognes can be a good choice for these months, as they are often lighter and sweeter without being too overpowering. Notes of lavender, jasmine, or peach can add a pleasant, delicate touch to your fragrance profile.

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