Ulta's Men's Cologne: In-Store Fragrance Shopping

Ulta Beauty offers a wide range of men's colognes in their stores and online. Their selection includes top brands such as Versace, Armani, and Valentino, with scents ranging from woody and robust to fresh and citrusy. Ulta also provides travel sprays for those who want to try something new or are always on the go. In addition to cologne, Ulta offers aftershaves, bath and shower products, and deodorants from popular brands like Dior Sauvage and Bleu de Chanel.

Top men's cologne brands at Ulta

Ulta Beauty offers a wide range of men's cologne brands, including popular designer names such as:

• Yves Saint Laurent
• Dior
• Chanel
• Armani
• Prada
• Ralph Lauren
• Versace
• Valentino
• Dolce & Gabbana
• Givenchy
• Burberry
• Gucci
• Calvin Klein
• Carolina Herrera
• Tom Ford
• Viktor & Rolf
• Jean Paul Gaultier
• Montblanc
• Azzaro
• Coach
• Jimmy Choo
• Clinique
• Duke Cannon Supply Co.
• Kenneth Cole New York
• Tiffany & Co.
• 18.21 Man Made

These colognes come in a variety of scents, from woody and robust to fresh and citrusy, ensuring there is something to suit every man's unique personality and style. Ulta Beauty also provides a Fragrance Finder tool to help customers find their perfect scent.

How to apply men's cologne

Applying cologne is an art, and when done right, it can leave a long-lasting impression. Here are some tips to help you apply cologne like a pro:

Know When to Apply

The best time to apply cologne is immediately after a shower when your skin is still warm and your pores are open. This helps the scent absorb deeper into your skin.

Hold the Bottle at the Right Distance

When spraying cologne, hold the bottle about 3 to 6 inches away from your body. Holding the bottle too close may lead to over-application, and holding it too far may result in under-application.

Target Pulse Points

Apply cologne to the warmer areas of your body, known as pulse points. These include areas like the neck, wrists, inner elbows, chest, and forearm. These areas emit more heat, allowing the scent to diffuse better and blend with your body's unique chemistry.

Less is More

Remember that cologne should be discovered, not announced. It's better to start with a small amount and gradually add more if needed. One spray is often enough, and three to four sprays are usually sufficient for the whole day.

Avoid Rubbing

Resist the urge to rub your wrists together after applying cologne. Rubbing can damage the fragrance molecules, altering the scent and making it weaker. Instead, let the cologne dry on your skin naturally.

Store it Right

To make your cologne last longer, store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Sunlight and heat can cause the components to break down faster, and the alcohol and water to evaporate sooner.

Choose the Right Type

Different types of colognes have varying concentrations of oils, which affect their longevity. Traditional colognes have a lower concentration of oils (2-4%) and don't last as long. If you're looking for something that will last longer, opt for Eau de Parfum (15-20% oil) or pure parfum (20-30% concentration).

Layer with Other Scented Products

Consider layering your cologne with other scented products like shampoo, soap, shaving products, or body lotion. This can help extend the longevity of your cologne and create a more cohesive fragrance experience.

Reapply Discreetly

Your nose may get used to the scent of your cologne, but others around you may not. If you feel your cologne is fading, a discreet reapplication may be necessary. Ask a friend or partner for feedback to determine if your scent is sticking around or not.

Spray Your Hair

Hair can retain scent for longer than skin, so consider spraying a small amount of cologne on your hair. However, be cautious as the alcohol in colognes can dry out your hair and cause hair loss.

Test Before You Buy

When choosing a new cologne, always test it on your skin first. The scent will interact with your body chemistry, so it's essential to see how it smells on you specifically.

Keep Your Skin Clean

Always apply cologne to clean skin. Spraying cologne over dirt and sweat is never a good idea and can result in an unpleasant combination of scents.

Spray Your Clothes (Carefully)

While it's generally recommended to spray cologne on your skin, you can also spray it on your clothes if you want them to smell like your fragrance. Just be cautious, as the oils and alcohols in colognes can stain or damage certain fabrics.

Moisturize Your Skin

Moisturizing your skin before applying cologne can help the fragrance absorb more efficiently and last longer. Using an unscented moisturizer ensures that it won't interfere with your cologne's scent.

Be Mindful of the Occasion

Different occasions call for different scents. A musky, sexy fragrance may be perfect for a night out, but it might be too intense for a workday. Choose a cologne that fits the occasion and the season, as lighter fragrances are often better suited for hot and humid weather.

Don't Overspray

Avoid spraying a cloud of cologne all over your body. This is a waste of your fragrance and can result in over-application. Stick to the pulse points and remember that a little goes a long way.

Spray Your Underwear

A unique tip is to spray your boxer briefs with cologne. It's an unexpected touch that can make a difference, and you never know where the day will take you!

Understand Fragrance Notes

Colognes have top, middle, and base notes. The top notes are the initial aromas, followed by the heart or middle notes, and finally, the base notes that remain behind. Understanding these notes can help you choose a cologne that aligns with your desired scent profile.

Consider Your Budget

Colognes come in various price ranges. You can find excellent options with price tags under three digits, so choose one that fits your budget without compromising your preference.

Use a Fragrance Finder

If you're unsure where to start, many brands and stores offer fragrance finders or quizzes to help you discover colognes that match your preferences. This can be a great way to narrow down your options and find your signature scent.

Choosing the right cologne

• Understand the different types of fragrances: Eau Fraiche, Cologne (Eau de Cologne), Toilette (Eau de Toilette), Perfume (Eau de Parfum), and Parfum. Each type has a different concentration of perfume oil, which affects the strength and longevity of the fragrance.
• Know the different fragrance families: fresh, fruity & citrus, warm & spicy, woody & earthy, etc. You can use tools like Michael Edwards' Fragrance Wheel to understand the different fragrance families and their seasonality.
• Ask others about the scent they are wearing if you like it. This can help you discover new fragrances or find similar ones.
• Know the classics: Familiarise yourself with classic scents to have a framework from which to pick your own fragrance.
• Weigh mass appeal against niche: Mass-market fragrances are typically safer and more affordable, but you may end up smelling like someone else. Niche fragrances are more expensive and unique, but they may not appeal to everyone.
• Consider your motives: Think about your personality and what impression you want to make on others. Choose a scent that suits your personality and the image you want to project.
• Sample before you buy: Try out different fragrances and wear them for a full day to see how they develop on your skin. Ask for feedback from close friends and family to get their opinions.
• Choose a fragrance that complements your natural body odour: Scientific studies suggest that a man can naturally select the cologne that works best with his natural body scent.
• Don't blind buy: Don't purchase a cologne just based on someone's recommendation without trying it yourself.
• Start with a small bottle: If you are new to fragrances, buy a smaller bottle to reduce the risk of wasting a large amount if you end up not liking it or wanting to explore other scents.
• Apply fragrance to heat areas: Spray cologne on areas like your chest, neck, lower jaw, wrist, forearm, inner elbow, or shoulder. These areas will help push the scent throughout the day.
• Less is more: Fragrance should be discovered, not announced. People nearby should be able to smell your cologne subtly, not be overpowered by it.

Trending men's cologne

Men's colognes are an integral part of their identity, an extension of their personality, and a powerful communicator. The right cologne can enrich a man's presence, leaving an unforgettable impression.

Woody and Earthy Colognes

Woody and earthy colognes are among the most popular choices for men, offering a robust and masculine scent. At Ulta Beauty, you can find a range of woody and earthy colognes, including options from top brands such as Yves Saint Laurent, Prada, and Valentino. These colognes often feature notes like sandalwood, cedar, and vetiver, creating a warm and inviting fragrance.

Fresh and Citrusy Colognes

For a more invigorating and lively option, fresh and citrusy colognes are a great choice. These colognes typically include notes of bergamot, lemon, grapefruit, or other citrus fruits, providing a zesty and refreshing scent. Brands like Dior, Chanel, and Prada offer excellent options in this category, with their fragrances known for their ability to energize and uplift the wearer.

Aquatic Aromatic Colognes

Aquatic aromatics is a relatively modern family of colognes that replicate the smells of the seaside, such as salty air, sea spray, and marine plants. These colognes are well-represented on the best-seller lists and are perfect for those who want to evoke the feeling of a beach vacation. Options from Armani, Issey Miyake, and Dolce & Gabbana are excellent choices in this category.

Spicy and Amber Colognes

For a unique and intriguing twist, spicy and amber colognes provide a warm and sensual fragrance. These colognes often include notes of cinnamon, pepper, tobacco, and vanilla, creating a cozy and inviting aroma. Brands like Dior, Chanel, and Creed offer excellent options in this category, with their fragrances evoking the feeling of a jazz club or a cozy night by the fire.

Classic Colognes

While the fragrance landscape is constantly evolving, classic colognes continue to hold their ground. These timeless scents have been reformulated over the years but remain popular among men of all ages. Classic colognes often feature bright citrus notes like bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit, providing a fresh and elegant fragrance. Options from Chanel, Dior, and Calvin Klein are excellent choices in this category, offering sophisticated and versatile scents suitable for any occasion.

Men's cologne gift sets

Ulta offers a wide range of men's cologne gift sets, with options from top brands such as Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, Prada, Ralph Lauren, and more. These gift sets typically include a combination of eau de toilette, eau de parfum, deodorant, and other fragrance products.

• Yves Saint Laurent Y Eau de Parfum Fragrance Set
• Dior Sauvage Eau de Toilette Gift Set - Limited Edition
• Ralph Lauren World of Polo 3-Piece Eau De Toilette Gift Set
• Prada Luna Rossa Ocean Eau de Pafum 2 Piece Men's Fragrance Gift Set
• Givenchy Gentleman Society Eau De Parfum 2-Pc Gift Set
• Versace Eros Eau de Toilette Cooler Bag Set

In addition to these gift sets, Ulta also offers individual colognes and other fragrance products for men, providing a variety of options to choose from.

Frequently asked questions