The Art Of Dabbing: Mastering Cologne Application

Whether you're a cologne enthusiast or just starting to experiment with fragrances, understanding how to apply cologne properly can enhance your overall experience. The dabbing technique and spraying are two popular ways to apply cologne. To use the dabbing technique, open the bottle and lightly tap or dab the cologne onto your pulse points. These areas include the wrist, neck, and behind the ears.

Dabbing allows for greater precision in where and how much you apply but may result in poorer projection. On the other hand, spraying provides better projection but is less precise in terms of volume and area of application. It is generally recommended to spray cologne 3-6 inches away from your body, aiming for pulse points such as the wrists, neck, and chest.

The choice between dabbing and spraying may also depend on the type of cologne. Some colognes are better suited for dabbing, especially if they are stronger or come in dab bottles. Lighter colognes, such as citrus or floral fragrances, are typically suited for spraying. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what works best for the specific cologne you are using.

How to apply cologne to pulse points

Pulse points are the areas on your body where you can feel a pulse, as the artery is close to the surface of your skin. These points include the neck, wrists, behind the ears, the temples of your head, the inside of your elbows, the back of your knees, and your foot. Applying cologne to these pulse points is important because they are particularly warm spots on your body. The warmth from the blood intensifies the scent, diffusing the fragrance and making it more effective and long-lasting.

• Prepare your skin: Ensure your skin is clean and moisturised. Exfoliation is also recommended to create an even surface for the cologne application. Choose unscented or subtly-scented moisturisers and body washes to avoid any overwhelming combination of fragrances.
• Identify the pulse points: Locate the pulse points on your body, such as the wrists, neck, and behind the ears.
• Apply a small amount: Use a small amount of cologne on each pulse point for a subtle yet long-lasting scent. You can dab or tap the cologne onto your skin, or spray it from a distance of three to six inches away. Avoid spraying directly onto your body, as it can be overpowering. Instead, spray into the air and walk through the mist.
• Avoid rubbing: Refrain from rubbing the cologne into your skin, as this can alter the scent and reduce its longevity. Allow the cologne to dry naturally.
• Build up if needed: Start with a small amount and gradually add more if required. Remember, a subtle and well-placed application can leave a lasting impression.
• Consider the strength of the cologne: The number of pulse points you apply cologne to and the amount you use will depend on the strength of the cologne. If using a strong parfum or eau de parfum, you may only need to apply it to one or two pulse points.
• Be mindful of the occasion: The amount and placement of cologne can vary depending on the situation. For everyday use, applying cologne to the neck and wrists is usually sufficient. For a night out or a date, you may want to apply cologne behind the ears or even the elbows for a subtle increase in strength.
• Layer with complementary scents: To maximise the longevity of your cologne, layer it with complementary scents.
• Store properly: To maintain the quality of your cologne, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

How much cologne is too much?

Cologne by nature is very strong, so using too much can leave your (and others') nostrils in disarray. It's important to remember that when it comes to cologne, less is more. It's better to start with a small amount and slowly add more if needed than to put on too much and have to take a shower to remove the smell.

How to Apply Cologne

There are a few key 'pulse points' that you should target when applying cologne. Pulse points are areas on your body where your heart pulse can be felt, and the warmth of your blood intensifies the scent. These points include the wrists, neck, behind the ears, inside the elbows, and behind the knees.

When applying cologne, hold the bottle 3-6 inches from your body and spray or dab a small amount onto one or two pulse points. You can then use your wrist to press the cologne into your skin, helping it to sit below the skin at the pulse point rather than above the skin, where it will slowly die away throughout the day.

It's worth noting that dabbing cologne can result in a more discreet application and a more sensual ritual. However, it may also lead to a poorer projection of the scent and can contaminate the bottle with oils and skin particles, causing the cologne to go off faster. Spraying, on the other hand, allows for greater projection but can be harder to control in terms of volume and area of application.

How Much to Apply

The general consensus is that one or two sprays or dabs of cologne are usually sufficient, depending on the strength of the fragrance. For lighter fragrances, such as citrus or floral scents, one or two sprays should be enough. For stronger fragrances, such as woody or musky scents, you may want to start with two or three sprays.

It's important to apply cologne sparingly and strategically so that it lasts all day without being overpowering. Start with a light application on one area, such as the neck or forearms, and reapply to another area if you notice that the scent fades quickly. You can also ask a close friend or family member for their opinion if you're unsure about the appropriateness of the application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Spraying on clothing– This prevents the cologne from mixing with your natural oils, resulting in a flat and monochrome scent. It can also stain or damage certain fabrics.
• Splashing the cologne on the skin– This is an easy way to over-apply. Instead, place your finger over the opening of the bottle and gently tip it upside down before dabbing the scent onto your body.
• Spraying a mist cloud and walking through it– This method results in most of the cologne ending up on the floor, rendering it useless.
• Rubbing the cologne into the skin– Rubbing can make the scent fade faster by breaking the molecular bond in the fragrance. It's best to simply dab or spray the cologne onto the skin instead.
• Applying too much cologne– A man's fragrance should be a subtle enhancement. Start light and gradually increase the amount if needed, seeking feedback from a trusted friend or family member.

Where to apply cologne on the body

When it comes to applying cologne, less is more. A subtle and well-placed application can leave a lasting impression. Here are the key areas to focus on when applying cologne to your body:

• Neck: The neck is a pulse point, an area where your heart pulse can be felt. The warmth of your blood at these points helps to intensify the scent. Applying a small amount of cologne to your neck is ideal for everyday use.
• Wrists: The wrists are also pulse points, making them perfect for cologne application. You can dab or spray the cologne onto your wrists and then gently rub your wrists together to distribute the scent evenly.
• Behind the ears: Applying cologne behind the ears is a great option if you're going to be in a noisy social setting. When people lean in to speak to you, they will catch an attractive whiff of your cologne.
• Inside of elbows: The inside of the elbows, or forearms, are another heated area of the body that can help diffuse the scent throughout the day.
• Chest: The chest area is a good spot to apply cologne, especially if you want the scent to be more noticeable.
• Behind the knee: This area can also be used as a pulse point for cologne application, but it may be less convenient for everyday use.

Remember, when applying cologne, it's best to start with a small amount and gradually build up if needed. You don't want to overpower your senses or those around you.

How to make cologne last longer

Cologne is a strong scent, and too much can be overpowering. The key to making cologne last longer is to apply it correctly and sparingly. Here are some tips to help you make your cologne's scent last longer:

• Prepare your skin: Ensure your skin is clean, exfoliated, and moisturised before applying cologne. This creates an even surface for the cologne to adhere to and helps it smell better and last longer.
• Pulse points: Apply cologne to your pulse points, such as your wrists, neck, behind your ears, and even behind your knees. These areas emit heat, intensifying the scent and allowing it to mix with your body heat.
• Less is more: Start with a small amount of cologne and gradually increase if needed. One spray or a light dab on each pulse point is usually enough. Overapplication can be unpleasant for you and those around you.
• Spray technique: Hold the bottle 3-6 inches from your body when spraying. Spraying too close can lead to overapplication, while spraying too far may result in under-application.
• Reapply: If your cologne fades quickly, reapply a small amount to your pulse points.
• Store properly: Keep your cologne in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Proper storage will help maintain its quality and prolong its shelf life.
• Skin type: Consider your skin type when applying cologne. Fragrances tend to last longer on oily skin and may be absorbed more quickly by dry skin.
• Lifestyle: Be mindful of how your daily activities and habits may affect your cologne's scent. For example, smoking or eating certain foods can alter the fragrance.
• Choose the right cologne: Different colognes have varying strengths and longevity. Opt for a stronger cologne if you want the scent to last longer, and consider having multiple colognes for different occasions or seasons.
• Layer scents: Layer complementary scents to make your cologne last longer.
• Avoid common mistakes: Do not spray cologne onto your clothes, as it may stain and prevent the scent from mixing with your natural oils. Avoid rubbing the cologne into your skin, as this can break down the fragrance molecules, causing the scent to fade faster.

Common mistakes to avoid when applying cologne

Applying cologne is an art form. When done correctly, it can make you feel more confident and attractive. However, if not done properly, it can lead to over-application or a scent that fades too quickly. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when applying cologne:

Applying Too Much Cologne

Cologne should be a subtle enhancement to your image. Start with a light application and gradually increase if needed. Remember, less is more when it comes to cologne. You don't want it to be overpowering.

Rubbing the Cologne into Your Skin

Rubbing the cologne into your skin can cause the scent to fade faster as it breaks the molecular bond in the fragrance. Instead, simply dab or spray the cologne onto your skin and let it dry naturally.

Splashing the Cologne onto Your Skin

If your cologne doesn't have a spray nozzle, avoid splashing it onto your skin. This can lead to over-application. Instead, place one finger over the opening of the bottle and gently tip it upside down before dabbing the cologne onto your body.

Spraying a Mist Cloud and Walking Through It

While this method may seem like it prevents over-application, it is wasteful and ineffective. Most of the cologne ends up on the floor instead of your body, where it needs to be.

Spraying the Cologne onto Your Clothing

Cologne should be applied directly to the skin. Spraying it onto your clothing prevents it from mixing with your natural oils, resulting in a flat and monochrome scent. It can also be harmful to certain fabrics.

Not Applying to Heated Areas of the Body

Apply cologne to the warmest areas of your body, such as the neck, chest, wrists, forearms, and inner elbows. These areas generate heat, helping to diffuse the scent throughout the day and allowing it to develop your signature scent.

Not Testing the Cologne Before Buying

It is important to test a cologne before purchasing to see how it reacts with your body chemistry. Spray a small amount on your wrist and observe how it develops over time. This will help you find a scent that complements your natural body chemistry.

Frequently asked questions