The Art Of Wearing Cologne: A Guide For Men

Knowing how to apply cologne is an art form. Done properly, it can boost confidence and be an important part of a man's personal style. Done improperly, it can lead to over-application or a scent that fades quickly.

The first step is to choose the right cologne. Cologne is a consumer term for fragrances targeted at men, and it's one of the weakest categories in terms of concentration and power. The more concentrated a scent, the more expensive it tends to be.

Once you've chosen your cologne, the best time to apply it is after a shower, when your skin is clean, dry, and still warm from the heat of the water. Hold the bottle 3-6 inches from your body and spray onto pulse points, such as the neck, wrists, and inner elbows. These areas are warmer, which helps the scent diffuse throughout the day.

Less is more when it comes to cologne. One or two sprays are usually enough, and you can always add another spray if needed. You want your cologne to be a subtle enhancement, a whisper, not a shout.

Choosing the right cologne

The right cologne can make you feel more attractive and confident, but it's important to choose one that complements your natural body chemistry. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect scent:

Understand the Different Types of Fragrances

The term "cologne" is typically used for masculine scents and is one of the weakest categories in terms of concentration and power. Other categories include Eau Fraiche, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, and Parfum, with varying concentrations of perfume oils. Understanding these categories will help you choose a cologne with the desired strength and longevity.

Know Your Core Notes

Fragrances are composed of different notes that evoke specific moods or vibes. For example, tonka bean or vanilla can be comforting, while aromatic fougère fragrances can be confident and classic. Understanding the core notes in a fragrance will help you choose one that aligns with your desired expression.

Consider Seasonality

Certain notes are more suitable for different times of the year. For instance, warming tobacco, leather, or spice notes are ideal for winter, while green and aquatic notes are perfect for summer. Consider having a few scents in rotation to match the changing seasons.

Ask for Recommendations

Don't be afraid to ask people about the scents they're wearing when you like them. This can give you ideas for fragrances to explore and help you discover new options that you may not have considered before.

Sample Before You Buy

It's important to test a cologne before committing to it. Department stores usually provide testers, allowing you to try different fragrances on your skin. Spray one scent on each wrist or inner elbow, and take time to notice how it develops over a few hours. This will help you make an informed decision about which cologne is right for you.

Choose a Size

Fragrances come in various bottle sizes, typically ranging from 1 oz. to 3.4 oz. If you're new to fragrances, it's best to start with a smaller bottle to reduce the risk of buying a scent you may not wear often or grow tired of.

Store Properly

Fragrances have a limited shelf life and can deteriorate when exposed to light or fluctuations in temperature. To extend the lifespan of your cologne, store it in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a bedroom closet, rather than in the bathroom or car.

How much cologne to use

The amount of cologne you should use depends on the strength of the fragrance, the occasion, and personal preference. The key is to avoid over-application, which can be off-putting to those around you. As a general rule, it is best to start with a light application and build up if necessary.

How Much Cologne to Apply

When applying cologne, hold the bottle 3 to 6 inches away from your body. Start with one spray on your neck or forearms. If you notice that the scent fades quickly, choose another area to spray, such as your wrists, chest, pulse points, or inner elbows. These areas are ideal because they are heated, which helps diffuse the scent throughout the day and allows it to meld with your body chemistry. Reapply as needed throughout the day, but be mindful that too much friction can cause the scent to degrade.

Mistakes to Avoid

To avoid over-application, do not spray the cologne into the air and walk through it, as this will put the cologne in all the wrong places and waste most of the product. Do not pour or splash cologne onto your skin, as this can lead to over-application. Avoid rubbing the cologne into your skin, as this can make the scent fade faster and alter its chemistry. Do not spray cologne on your clothing, as it can damage certain fabrics and prevent the scent from mixing with your natural oils.

Choosing the Right Cologne

When choosing a cologne, consider the concentration of fragrance, which will determine its strength and longevity. Colognes typically fall into one of the following categories:

• Eau Fraiche: 1-3% perfume oil; lasts less than an hour
• Eau de Cologne: 2-4% perfume oil; lasts around two hours
• Eau de Toilette: 5-15% perfume oil; lasts around three hours
• Eau de Parfum: 15-20% perfume oil; lasts five to eight hours
• Parfum: 20-30% perfume oil; lasts up to 24 hours

In addition to concentration, consider the scent profile and how it interacts with your body chemistry. Test colognes on your skin rather than on paper strips, as the scent may smell different on your skin due to factors such as body chemistry and hormones.

Where to apply cologne

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

Apply to Pulse Points

Pulse points are areas of your body that emit heat throughout the day, helping the cologne diffuse and allowing it to meld with your body chemistry to develop your signature scent. The best spots to spray cologne on the body are pulse points including your neck, wrists, chest, forearms, and inner elbows.

Hold Bottle 3-6 Inches Away

When applying cologne, hold the spray bottle 3-6 inches from your body. Holding the bottle any closer than 3 inches risks over-applying, while spraying any further than 6 inches away will likely result in under-application.

Start with a Light Application

When wondering how much cologne to use, remember that less is more. Start with a light application and choose one area like the neck or forearms. Apply one spray and then, if you notice that the scent fades quickly, choose another area and spray there the next time you apply.

Reapply if Needed

Depending on the type of cologne, you may need to reapply, especially if you are going out in the evening. When reapplying, simply dab a little onto your pulse points.

Avoid Clothing Application

Do not spray cologne onto your clothing. Applying cologne to your clothes prevents it from mixing with your natural oils, which gives the cologne its unique quality. It can also prevent the scent from going through its various stages, rendering the scent flat and one-dimensional. Finally, spraying cologne directly onto clothing can harm certain fabrics.

Target Heated Areas

Apply cologne to heated areas of your body. The heat helps diffuse the scent throughout the day.

When to reapply cologne

Cologne is a great way for men to feel more attractive and confident. However, it's important to know when to reapply to avoid overdoing it. Here are some detailed tips on when to reapply cologne:

Understanding Cologne Longevity

Firstly, it's essential to understand that different colognes have different longevity. Some colognes can last from just two hours to as long as 24 hours, depending on their concentration and the individual's skin chemistry. Cologne concentrations are categorized as Eau Fraiche, Eau de Cologne, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, and Parfum, with increasing levels of perfume oil concentration and longevity. Knowing the concentration of your cologne will give you a better idea of how often to reapply.

Factors Affecting Cologne Longevity

In addition to the type of cologne, other factors can affect how long it lasts. These include:

• Skin chemistry: Your skin's natural oils, moisture, and temperature can impact how well the cologne absorbs and how long it lasts. Dry skin tends to absorb cologne faster, leading to shorter longevity.
• Climate: Warmer temperatures can cause the cologne to evaporate faster, especially if you have a light perfume.
• Application method: Rubbing cologne onto the skin can break down the fragrance, causing it to fade faster. It's best to spray or dab it onto the skin instead.
• Choice of application area: Applying cologne to heated areas of the body, such as the neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, or inner elbows, helps diffuse the scent throughout the day.

Signs It's Time to Reapply

So, when is the right time to reapply cologne? Here are some signs that indicate it's time for a touch-up:

• You can't smell it anymore: If you can't smell your cologne, it's likely that others can't either. However, keep in mind that you may become nose-blind to scents you wear often, so it's a good idea to ask a trusted friend for their opinion.
• It's been a few hours: Depending on the type of cologne, you may need to reapply every few hours. Eau de Toilette, for example, typically lasts around three hours, while Eau de Parfum can last up to six to eight hours.
• You're transitioning from day to night: If you're going out in the evening, a quick reapplication of cologne can freshen up your scent.
• You've been physically active: Activities that cause sweating, such as exercising or being in a hot climate, can make your cologne wear off faster.

Tips for Reapplication

When reapplying cologne, remember to apply sparingly and strategically. Here are some quick tips:

• Reapply to pulse points: When touching up your cologne, dab a small amount onto your pulse points, such as your wrists, neck, or chest.
• Carry a travel-size atomizer: Instead of carrying the entire bottle, opt for a travel-size atomizer or rollerball for easy reapplication on the go.
• Reapply after showering: Applying cologne after a shower ensures your skin is clean and free of other scents, allowing the cologne to absorb better.
• Avoid over-application: Less is more when it comes to cologne. Start with a light application and ask a friend for feedback if needed.

Storing cologne

• Keep it in a dark place: Avoid direct sunlight as it can damage the cologne and affect its scent. Store it in a dark room, closet, drawer, or box.
• Maintain a consistent temperature: Extreme temperatures can alter the quality of cologne. Keep it away from heat sources and direct ventilation. The ideal storage temperature is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Avoid humidity: Humidity can negatively impact the cologne's composition. Do not store it in humid areas like bathrooms or kitchens. Consider using a dehumidifier in the storage area.
• Keep the bottle sealed: Ensure the cap is tightly closed when the cologne is not in use. Oxygen exposure can cause the scent to dilute and evaporate faster.
• Store in the original box: The original packaging is designed to protect the cologne from light and temperature fluctuations. Keeping it in the box, especially when paired with a closet or dark cupboard, can significantly increase its longevity.
• Store on lower shelves: Placing cologne on higher shelves increases the risk of breakage if the bottle falls. Keep it on lower shelves or in a cabinet to prevent accidental spills.
• Avoid shaking the bottle: Shaking introduces excess oxygen and creates unwanted bubbles, accelerating oxidation and altering the scent.
• Maintain the original bottle: Decorative bottles may be aesthetically pleasing but could compromise the cologne's integrity. The original bottles are designed to be airtight and have specific spray heads to prevent air contamination.
• Store in an airtight container: For added protection, place the original bottle in an airtight container, such as an opaque bag. This minimises oxidation and shields the cologne from harmful light and temperature changes.

Frequently asked questions