How Unscented Oil Makes Your Cologne Last Longer

Unscented oil can help make cologne smell longer. Applying cologne to dry skin can cause it to evaporate more quickly. Therefore, applying unscented oil or lotion to your skin before spraying cologne can help to lock in the fragrance for longer. This is because the cologne has something to cling to, allowing it to stay put all day.

Applying cologne after a shower

Timing is Important

Wait for your skin to cool down after your shower before applying cologne. If you've just had a hot shower, it's best to wait for your body temperature to return to normal. This will prevent the cologne from evaporating too quickly. The ideal time to apply cologne is when your skin is clean and dry.

Moisturise Your Skin

Before applying cologne, you may want to moisturise your skin, especially if you have dry skin. This can help protect the integrity of the scent and lock in the aroma for longer. Use an unscented lotion or a fragrance-free moisturiser to avoid competing scents.

Pulse Points

Apply cologne to your pulse points, such as your wrists, neck, and inner elbows. These areas emit warmth throughout the day, helping the fragrance to diffuse slowly. Avoid areas with too much friction, like the crotch, armpits, and knees, as these areas can cause the scent to degrade faster.

Hold the Bottle at the Right Distance

When spraying cologne, hold the bottle about three inches away from your body. Holding the bottle too close can lead to over-application and muddle the scent profile.

Don't Rub the Cologne

Avoid rubbing the cologne into your skin after application. Rubbing can degrade the scent and change the way the top notes smell. Instead, gently dab the cologne onto your skin or let it dry naturally.

Reapply Throughout the Day

You can freshen up your scent by reapplying a spray or two to your wrists later in the day. Remember not to rub your wrists together after reapplying.

Store Your Cologne Properly

To make your cologne last longer, store it in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as humidity and heat from hot showers can cause the fragrance to degrade. Keep it in its original bottle, in a drawer or closet, away from direct sunlight or indoor light.

Using unscented lotion

Applying unscented lotion before spraying on your cologne is a great way to make your fragrance last longer. This is because cologne clings better to moisturised skin.

Firstly, ensure your skin is clean. If you've just showered, your pores are at their most open, which allows cologne to seep into your skin and gives you a longer-lasting aroma. However, don't apply cologne to wet skin. Instead, dry off first, then apply an unscented moisturiser or lotion to your skin and wait for it to absorb. Now, your skin is ready for your cologne.

Using an unscented lotion is also a good way to avoid any competing scents that might detract from your cologne. If you want to be extra sure of this, you can buy a matching lotion to your cologne, if one is available.

You can also use an unscented lotion to make the most of a fragrance that is coming to the end. If your bottle no longer sprays, simply add the remaining scent to some unscented moisturiser to create a lotion that smells like your cologne.

Pulse points

When applying cologne to pulse points, it is important not to rub the wrists together, as this can alter the scent by changing the chemistry of the cologne. Instead, it is recommended to spritz or gently dab the cologne onto the skin.

In addition to the traditional pulse points, some people also suggest applying cologne to the armpits, as this can result in a longer-lasting and more impactful scent. However, this may not be suitable for individuals who require deodorant.

To further enhance the longevity of the cologne, it is recommended to apply a small amount of Vaseline or unscented lotion to the pulse points before spraying the cologne. This creates an additional moisturising layer for the scent to cling to, helping it to last longer.

Hair application

Hair fibres can hold onto fragrances for longer than skin, so applying cologne to your hair can be an effective way to make a scent last longer. However, it's important to note that the alcohol in many perfumes can cause damage to hair, so it's best to avoid spraying cologne directly onto your hair. Instead, try one of the following methods:

• Spray your fragrance onto a hairbrush and then brush through your hair.
• Use a hair fragrance or mist, which is designed to leave a refreshing, lasting scent without drying out or damaging your hair.
• Try a scented hair oil or serum, which will nourish your hair while also adding a subtle fragrance.
• If you're looking for a quick fix to make your hair smell better in between washes, a dry shampoo can help to eliminate excess oils and absorb smells.

In addition, it's worth noting that the way you care for your hair can also impact its ability to hold onto fragrances. Washing your hair regularly, using a scalp scrub, and cleaning your pillowcase frequently can all help to ensure your hair is in the best condition to hold onto scents.

Storage

The way you store your cologne can have a significant impact on how long it lasts and how good it smells. Here are some tips to ensure your cologne stays fresh and potent:

• Keep it in a cool, dry place: Heat, humidity, and light can break down the scent and alter its composition. Store your cologne in a cool, dry place, such as a drawer or closet, away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as the temperature and humidity fluctuations can affect the quality.
• Store it in its original box: The original box can help protect the bottle from light and heat. Keep the box in a cool, dry place.
• Keep it away from extreme temperatures: Avoid storing your cologne in places with extreme temperatures, such as the refrigerator or freezer. These extreme temperatures can damage the fragrance.
• Avoid shaking the bottle: Shaking the bottle can introduce excess air, which can be harmful to the fragrance. Only shake the bottle if there are specific instructions to do so.
• Keep the bottle sealed: Oxygen is perfume's worst enemy. Always cap the bottle tightly after use to minimise oxygen exposure and slow down evaporation.
• Store in an airtight container: For extra protection, place the original bottle in an airtight container, such as an opaque bag. This will help prevent oxidation and protect the fragrance from light.
• Store on a low shelf: Keep the bottle on a low shelf or in a drawer to avoid accidental spills or breakage.
• Use travel containers: When travelling, transfer a small amount of cologne to a travel-sized bottle. This will reduce the risk of losing or damaging the entire bottle.

Frequently asked questions