The Art Of Spraying Cologne On Your Neck For Sillage

Sillage is the lingering aroma a fragrance leaves behind as the wearer moves. It is used to describe the level at which a fragrance can project its scent into the surrounding area and make a lasting impression on those nearby. The neck is one of the pulse points where you can apply cologne to enhance sillage as the blood pumps and you move around. However, opinions vary on whether you should spray cologne on the front, sides, or back of the neck, or avoid the neck altogether. Some sources suggest that the sides and back of the neck are preferable to the front, as the former options are pulse points that encourage fragrance diffusion, while the latter is too close to the nose and can cause anosmia. Others advise against spraying the neck altogether, as the region tends to produce oil that can degrade the fragrance. Instead, they recommend spraying the shoulders, chest, or abdomen, allowing the fragrance to permeate through the clothes over time. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference and experimentation to find what works best for you.

Spraying cologne on the neck: Yay or Nay?

The case for spraying cologne on the neck

The neck is one of the body's pulse points, which are the warmest areas of the skin where you can feel your heartbeat. These points are ideal for spraying cologne because the body heat created at these points will help to project the fragrance more effectively. The sides and back of the neck are pulse points, and applying cologne here will encourage the fragrance to diffuse as your blood pumps and you move around.

It's important to remember that less is more when it comes to cologne. As the saying goes, "fragrance should be discovered, not announced". You want people to be able to smell your perfume without being overpowered by it. One spray on the neck is usually enough, and you can add more sprays to your wrists if you feel that's not enough.

The case against spraying cologne on the neck

Some people argue that you shouldn't spray cologne on the neck because the neck region tends to produce oil, which can degrade the fragrance. The alcohol in perfume can also dry out the skin on the neck, leading to premature ageing. Another reason not to spray cologne on the neck is that it is too close to your nose, which can cause olfactory fatigue or even anosmia.

Alternative places to spray cologne

Alternative places to spray cologne include the wrists, chest, abdomen, shoulders, back of the arms or hands, collarbone area, and behind the ears. The inside of the elbows is also a good place as it is a warm area, making it an ideal spot for cologne application. Spraying cologne on your hair can also help it to last longer, although you should be mindful that the alcohol in cologne can dry out your hair and cause hair loss.

How much cologne to spray on the neck?

The amount of cologne you spray on your neck depends on the strength of the cologne, your skin type, and your personal preference.

The sides and back of the neck are pulse points, which are areas of the body where you can feel your heartbeat. These points are some of the warmest areas of the skin, and the heat created at these pulse points will help project the fragrance more effectively. Therefore, spraying cologne on the neck can help enhance its sillage, or the lingering aroma a fragrance leaves behind as the wearer moves.

However, the neck region tends to produce oil quickly, which can degrade the fragrance. Additionally, the alcohol in perfume can dry out the skin and lead to premature aging. As such, some people choose to avoid spraying cologne on their necks.

If you do choose to spray cologne on your neck, it is recommended to hold the bottle about 3-6 inches away from the skin and start with one spritz. You can always add more sprays if you feel that one is not enough. Remember that less is more, and cologne should be discovered, not announced.

Pulse points

There are nine pulse points on the body, including the neck, temples, inner wrist, inside the elbow, behind the knee, and the foot. When applying cologne, you should spray from three to six inches away, using one to four spritzes, depending on the strength of the cologne.

For everyday use, it is recommended to apply cologne to the neck and inner wrist or chest. If you're going out, you can also apply a small amount behind your ear so that people get a pleasant whiff when they get close to your face.

The sides and back of the neck are pulse points that encourage the fragrance to diffuse as your blood pumps and you move around. Applying cologne to the back of the neck helps enhance the sillage as you come and go.

In addition to the neck, other key areas to apply cologne for strong sillage include the wrists, behind the ears, and the crook of the elbow. These spots experience the highest body heat, allowing the fragrance to warm up and blend with your body chemistry, resulting in the best projection and longest-lasting aroma.

How to make cologne last longer

Where to Spray

Applying cologne to the neck is a great way to enhance its sillage, or lingering impression, as you come and go. The sides of the neck are pulse points, which help the fragrance diffuse as you move around and your blood pumps. Don't forget to spritz the back of your neck, too.

You can also try spraying cologne:

• Inside the wrists: These are key pulse points, and applying cologne here will help project the scent. It's also a great place to apply fragrance if you plan on shaking hands.
• Behind the ears: As your blood pumps, this vascularised area will boost the sillage of your scent.
• In the crook of your elbow: The inside of your elbows are warm areas, making them an ideal place for cologne application.

How Much to Spray

While you may be tempted to spray more cologne to make it last longer, over-applying will only result in you overpowering those around you. Start with a small amount and increase if needed. Remember, you quickly become accustomed to your own scent and can barely smell it after a while, even though others can.

Other Tips to Make Cologne Last Longer

• Apply right after a shower: Your pores are most open at this time, allowing cologne to seep into the skin and giving you a longer-lasting aroma.
• Moisturise beforehand: Dry skin will soak up perfume oils, so use an unscented moisturising cleanser and body lotion to hydrate your skin and make it a better base for your fragrance.
• Layer your fragrance: Use complementary products like soaps, aftershaves, and body balms to remove competing scents.
• Store cologne properly: Keep the bottle somewhere cool, dark, and dry—not in the bathroom—to prevent heat, humidity, and light from breaking down the scent.
• Don't rub: Resist the urge to rub cologne into your skin after application. This can break down the scent molecules and affect how the fragrance develops. Instead, let it air dry.

The best places 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.

The Neck

The sides and back of the neck are pulse points, which encourage the fragrance to diffuse as your blood pumps and you move around. The neck is also an area that will be exposed to the air, helping to project the scent.

Behind the Ears

Applying a small amount of cologne behind each ear will boost the sillage of your scent as your blood pumps through this vascularised area.

Inside the Elbows

The inside of the elbows are warm areas, making them ideal for cologne application. The fragrance will radiate from this sweet spot.

The Wrists

The wrists are key pulse points, so applying cologne here will help project your scent. Applying cologne to the wrists is also a good idea if you plan on shaking hands with people.

The Chest

Applying cologne to the chest will help with projection through motion, especially when walking forward.

The Hair or Shirt

Some people like to apply cologne to their hair or shirt. However, this can be ineffective as cologne contains a lot of alcohol, which can dry out hair, and fall flat on clothing.

Pulse Points

The key to strong sillage is to apply cologne to heated areas of the body, or pulse points, where blood pumps through veins. These points include the wrists, neck, and chest.

Frequently asked questions