Do Men Still Wear Cologne?

Many men wear cologne, with estimates ranging from 10% to 80% depending on the country. In the US, 63% of men are estimated to wear cologne occasionally, and 23% all the time. While some women find cologne attractive, others dislike it or prefer that it is used in moderation. Applying cologne is an art, and it is important to know where to apply it, how much to use, and how to store it.

Women's thoughts on men wearing cologne

The Importance of Fragrance

Women have varying opinions on men wearing cologne. While some women find it attractive when men wear cologne, others are indifferent or dislike it. According to a survey, 63% of men wear cologne occasionally, and 23% wear it all the time. However, the majority of women agree that the sense of smell is essential, and they appreciate men who maintain good hygiene and smell pleasant.

Cologne as a Turn-On

Some women find men who wear cologne attractive and view it as a turn-on. They associate it with masculinity, good hygiene, and self-care. As one woman puts it, "Cologne means you're a man. It's a turn-on." Another woman mentions that she loves the smell of cologne and finds it alluring when a guy has a signature scent.

Moderation is Key

While some women enjoy the scent of cologne on men, they emphasize the importance of moderation. Overpowering or strong fragrances can be off-putting and overwhelming. As one woman advises, "Cologne should be discovered, not announced." Women prefer subtle fragrances that are noticeable only when in close proximity. They suggest that men opt for light and conservative use of cologne rather than heavy application.

Individual Preferences

Women's preferences for cologne vary, and they may like certain fragrances over others. Some women prefer strong and bold fragrances, while others opt for lighter and more subtle scents. Additionally, women may have positive associations with specific colognes, reminding them of past partners or attractive men they have encountered.

Alternative Fragranced Products

Some women express that cologne is not necessary for a man to smell good. They suggest that other fragranced products, such as body wash, deodorant, or shampoo, can also make a man smell appealing. These products can provide a more subtle and natural fragrance, which some women find preferable to cologne.

Special Occasions

A few women mention that they appreciate men wearing cologne for special occasions, such as going out or attending a nice dinner. In these contexts, cologne can enhance a man's overall appearance and make him more attractive. However, they suggest that wearing cologne daily or excessively is unnecessary.

In conclusion, women's thoughts on men wearing cologne vary. While some find it attractive and appealing, others are indifferent or dislike it. The key factors that influence their preferences include the type of fragrance, the amount applied, and the suitability of the cologne for the occasion. Women appreciate men who maintain good hygiene and smell pleasant, whether through cologne or other fragranced products.

How to apply cologne

Applying cologne is an art form. Done properly, it can make you feel more attractive and confident. Done incorrectly, it can lead to over-application or a scent that fades almost immediately.

Choose the right cologne

Firstly, it's important to choose a cologne that complements your natural body chemistry and fits your lifestyle in terms of how long the scent lasts. More expensive colognes tend to last longer, and some start out smelling one way and then develop a different scent throughout the day.

Apply to clean skin

The best time to apply cologne is immediately after showering, as your skin will be free of other scents and your pores will be open, helping the scent absorb. Dry your skin completely before applying cologne.

Hold the bottle 3-6 inches from your body

Holding the bottle any closer than 3 inches risks over-application, and any further than 6 inches will result in under-application.

Apply to heated areas of the body

Apply cologne to your neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, or inner elbows. The heat will help diffuse the scent throughout the day and allow it to meld with your body chemistry to create your signature scent.

Start with a light application

Choose one area, such as the neck or forearms, and start with one spray. If you notice that the scent fades quickly, choose another area and add another spray. You can always add more, but it's difficult to remove excess cologne once it's been applied.

Re-apply if needed

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

Common mistakes to avoid

• Spraying the fragrance on your clothing – this prevents it from mixing with your natural oils, giving it its unique quality. It can also harm certain fabrics.
• Splashing the cologne on your skin – this is an easy way to over-apply. Instead, place one finger over the opening of the bottle and gently tip it upside down before dabbing the scent on your body.
• Spraying a mist cloud and walking through it – this method renders the cologne almost useless, as most of it ends up on the floor.
• Rubbing the cologne into your skin – this makes the scent fade faster as it breaks the molecular bond in the fragrance.
• Applying too much cologne – a subtle hint of fragrance is best.

A good rule of thumb is the "personal space" rule. If someone is within your personal space, they should be able to smell your cologne. If they're outside of this space, they shouldn't be able to detect it.

Getting a second opinion

It can be difficult to judge how you smell to others, so don't be afraid to ask a friend or partner for their opinion.

Storage

Cologne does not have an infinite shelf life, and fluctuations in temperature can shorten its lifespan. To make your cologne last longer, store it in a dark, cool place, such as its original box or a drawer. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or storing it in the bathroom or your car.

How much cologne to use

The amount of cologne you use is important. Too much cologne can be overwhelming, while too little may not be noticeable. The key is to find the perfect balance where your scent is subtle yet inviting.

The number of sprays of cologne you need depends on the strength of the fragrance, the occasion, and personal preference. It is recommended to start with one or two sprays and then build up if necessary to avoid over-application. For a lighter fragrance, such as a citrus or floral cologne, one or two sprays should be enough. For a stronger scent, such as a woody or musky fragrance, you may want to start with two or three sprays.

Where to Spray?

It is generally recommended to spray cologne on your skin rather than your clothes. Fragrances are designed to interact with the oils and pH of your skin, enhancing and prolonging the scent. Additionally, applying cologne to your skin will help prevent it from staining or damaging your clothing.

When applying cologne, aim for pulse points such as your wrists, neck, and chest. These areas generate heat and will help diffuse the fragrance. You can also target other heated areas like your inner elbows or forearms. Avoid spraying cologne directly on your face or on broken or irritated skin.

Adjusting the Amount

You may want to adjust the amount of cologne you use based on the occasion. For example, if you're going to the office, it's better to be conservative with your cologne. However, if you're attending a party or dinner, you can opt for a stronger scent.

It's always better to err on the side of caution and use too little rather than too much. You can also ask the opinion of a close friend or family member to ensure your application is appropriate, as you can become nose-blind to scents you wear often.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few mistakes to avoid when applying cologne:

• Spraying the fragrance on your clothing
• Splashing the cologne on your skin
• Spraying a mist cloud and walking through it
• Rubbing the perfume onto the skin
• Applying too much cologne

Different types of colognes

While opinions vary on how many men wear cologne, with sources citing anywhere between 10% and 80%, one thing is for sure: there are many different types of colognes to choose from.

There are six primary types of colognes, each with a different concentration of fragrance oils: Parfum, Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Cologne, Eau Fraiche, and Perfume Oil. The type of cologne you choose will depend on your style, budget, and the occasions you plan to wear it.

• Parfum has the highest concentration of fragrance oils, typically containing 25-30% oil. This means it has the best longevity and will last on your skin for 10-12+ hours. Due to its high concentration, parfum tends to be on the pricier side. An example of a parfum is Tom Ford Ombre Leather.
• Eau de Parfum (EDP) has a slightly lower concentration of 15-20% oil and will last for 8-10 hours. This makes it a good balance between potency and longevity, and it is often a more affordable option than parfum. An example of an EDP is Gucci Guilty Pour Homme.
• Eau de Toilette (EDT) has a lower concentration of fragrance oils, typically containing 5-15% oil. This makes it a more budget-friendly option, but it will also evaporate more quickly from the skin, typically lasting for 2-4 hours. EDTs are a popular choice for women and are ideal for summer as the heat intensifies their notes. An example of an EDT is Jimmy Choo Man.
• Eau de Cologne (EDC) has an even lower concentration of fragrance oils, typically containing 2-4% oil. This type of cologne is ideal for those who want a light and invigorating scent that lasts for just a couple of hours. EDCs are water-based and are kind to sensitive or dry skin. An example of an EDC is Dior Homme Cologne.
• Eau Fraiche is a rarer type of cologne with a fragrance oil concentration of around 2-3%. These colognes tend to be aromatic, green, and citrusy, and are ideal for those who want a subtle, ultra-light fragrance. An example of an Eau Fraiche is YSL Y Eau Fraiche.
• Perfume Oils are a less intense and more wearable type of cologne, as they are alcohol-free and diluted with carrier oils such as olive, coconut, or sweet almond oil. They typically have an essential oil concentration of around 20% and can last for up to 4-6 hours. Perfume oils are a good choice for those with sensitive or dry skin and are often more affordable than other types of cologne. An example of a perfume oil is Pure Instinct Original Perfume Oil.

In addition to these six primary types, colognes can also be categorized into different fragrance families based on their scent profile. Some common fragrance families include:

• Traditional/Floral: This family includes traditional scents with floral tones such as rose, jasmine, or gardenia, as well as fruity scents like peaches or berries.
• Oriental/Spicy: This family includes sensual and rich scents defined by spices such as vanilla, patchouli, and cinnamon. Musky scents also fall into this category.
• Woody/Nature-inspired: This family includes nature-inspired scents that give off a very manly smell. Centering on notes of sandalwood, cedar, and moss, these crisp, forest-inspired scents are refreshing and nostalgic.
• Citrus/Aromatic: This family includes vigorous scents that focus on citrus, green, and water smells. Aromas of orange, lemon, fresh-cut grass, and sea breezes are common in this scent family.

Where to keep cologne

Keeping cologne in good condition is essential to ensure that it maintains its scent and longevity. Here are some detailed tips on where to keep cologne to preserve its quality:

Avoid Light and Heat:

Keep the cologne away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Light and heat can break down the sensitive chemical makeup of the fragrance, altering its scent and causing potential damage to the bottle. Avoid placing it on windowsills or in bathrooms, as these areas tend to receive direct sunlight and have fluctuating temperatures.

Opt for Dark and Dry Places:

Store your cologne in dark and dry locations. Dark places help prevent light-induced damage to the fragrance. Consider keeping it in a closet, drawer, or cupboard outside the bathroom. These areas are generally shielded from light and provide a more stable environment for storage.

Maintain a Stable Temperature:

Aim to store your cologne at a constant temperature, avoiding extreme hot or cold conditions. A temperature of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal. You can use a small compact fridge, a wine cooler, or an unplugged refrigerator to maintain a consistent temperature if needed.

Keep the Bottle Sealed:

Ensure that the cologne bottle remains sealed when not in use. Leaving the bottle open, even for a few hours, can accelerate the evaporation process and disrupt the balance of the fragrance. Always remember to cap the bottle tightly after each use.

Store in the Original Box and Bottle:

The original box and bottle are designed to provide optimal protection for the cologne. The boxes help shield the bottles from light and reduce the risk of evaporation. Additionally, the original bottles are typically airtight and have specific spray heads to prevent air contamination.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively preserve the quality and longevity of your cologne, ensuring that it retains its scent and freshness for a more extended period.

Frequently asked questions