Make Your Cologne Last Longer With Vaseline

Many people enjoy wearing cologne or perfume to complement their outfit or boost their confidence. However, it can be frustrating when the scent wears off after a short time, especially given how expensive fragrances can be. One hack to make perfume last longer is to apply a small amount of Vaseline to your pulse points before spraying on your perfume. The balm will act as an additional moisturizing lock for the scent, helping it to last longer. However, some people have found that this method doesn't work for them, and that it makes their skin feel greasy and sticky.

Vaseline as a base for cologne

Vaseline is a well-known household product with a variety of uses, and it turns out that it can also be used to make your cologne last longer. The idea is that you apply a small amount of Vaseline to your pulse points—the warmer areas of your body such as your wrists, inner elbows, neck, and the backs of your knees—before spraying on your cologne. The Vaseline will leave a subtly slick cast, creating a barrier that gives the cologne something to hold on to, thus slowing down the rate at which it evaporates.

This hack has been passed down through the ages, recommended by those who have been honing their skills for decades. It addresses the age-old issue of making your cologne last longer, especially given that cologne can be quite expensive, and it can be frustrating when the scent wears off after a short time.

The key to making this trick work is to ensure that only a thin layer of Vaseline is applied to the skin. This can be achieved by rubbing it in until it is practically gone. It is also important to let the cologne dry before putting on your clothes, as the Vaseline may rub off on them.

While this method has been proven to work, it is worth noting that some people may not like the feeling of Vaseline on their skin, even in small amounts. Additionally, it may not be suitable for those who have skin that does not react well to Vaseline. In these cases, an alternative method to make your cologne last longer is to apply an unscented moisturiser to your skin before spraying on your cologne. This will also help to slow down the evaporation of the cologne by keeping your skin hydrated, without leaving a greasy residue.

Pulse points for cologne application

Pulse points are the places on your body where you can feel a pulse, as the artery is close enough to the surface of your body that you can feel your heart pumping blood through it. These are the best spots to apply cologne because they are particularly warm areas of the body. The close contact with contracting blood brings warmth, which diffuses the fragrance, making it more effective and long-lasting.

There are nine pulse points on the body, including the foot, temples of the head, two places on the neck, and the inner wrist. For everyday cologne usage, it is recommended to apply cologne to the neck area, as there are pulse points on each side of the throat. You can also spritz your inner wrist or chest. This combination should be suitable for a day at the office.

If you're going out, you might want to apply cologne to the area behind your ear. This will subtly increase the strength of the scent and give people a pleasant aroma when they get close to your face. You could also consider placing cologne inside your elbow and the back of your knee. Applying cologne to the elbow can be a good choice for a date or a night out, while the back of the knee is a good option if you're wearing shorts or spending time outdoors.

It's important to note that you don't need to apply cologne to all these points, and it's generally recommended to stick to just a few pulse points. Additionally, the more pulse points you apply cologne to, the less cologne you should use. It's also important to consider the strength of the cologne and your skin type when determining how much to apply.

Other alternatives to Vaseline

While Vaseline can be used to make cologne last longer, there are several other alternatives that can be used to achieve the same effect.

Firstly, an unscented lotion or oil can be applied to the skin before spraying on the cologne. This method ensures that the fragrance is not altered, as Vaseline may interfere with the perfume profile due to its own odour. The lotion or oil helps to lock in moisture, providing a base for the cologne to adhere to, and slowing down its evaporation.

Another alternative is to apply cologne to areas that are covered by clothing, such as the arm under a sleeve. This reduces the rate of evaporation, allowing the scent to last longer.

Additionally, using an Eau de Parfum instead of an Eau de Toilette can provide longer-lasting fragrance. Eau de Parfums have a higher concentration of fragrance oils, which means they will generally have better longevity on the skin.

Spraying a larger amount of cologne is another simple way to make the scent last longer. Using a 'heavy' perfume with dominant base notes, such as musk, amber, or oud, can also increase the duration of the scent. These base notes evaporate more slowly than lighter citrus notes, providing a longer-lasting fragrance.

Finally, spraying cologne onto fabrics such as a scarf or clothing can make the scent last longer, as the perfume adheres to the fabric. However, it is important to exercise caution when spraying onto fabrics, as the oil in the cologne may cause staining. Testing on a small, hidden area first is recommended.

How to store cologne

Choosing the Right Storage Space

• Avoid direct light: Sunlight can damage cologne bottles, so it's best to store them in darker places, like a closet or a drawer.
• Consistent temperature: Extreme high and low temperatures can affect the quality of cologne. Avoid storing it in areas with dramatic temperature changes, such as the kitchen or bathroom. Instead, opt for a closet in the living room or hallway.
• Avoid humid areas: Humidity can negatively impact the quality of cologne. If possible, store it in a room with a dehumidifier, such as your bedroom.
• Refrigerator: Some people store cologne in the refrigerator to maintain a consistent temperature. However, very cold fridges can damage the cologne, so avoid doing this if your drinks, fruits, or vegetables tend to freeze.
• Closet: A closet is generally an ideal place to store cologne, as it is dark and has a consistent temperature. Just make sure it's not a bathroom or kitchen closet.

Selecting a Storage Container

• Original bottle: If the original bottle is attractive, you can store your cologne on a shelf or in a container. If the bottle isn't appealing, avoid transferring it to another container, as exposure to air can cause it to lose its smell.
• Boxes: Storing cologne bottles in boxes before placing them in storage can provide additional protection from heat and sunlight. Ensure all caps are firmly sealed to prevent leaks.
• Travel containers: For travelling, it's best to use travel-friendly bottles or transfer the cologne to an empty bottle. This reduces the risk of losing your cologne while travelling.

Preventing Damage

• Keep the cap on: Always keep the cap on the bottle after use to minimise exposure to air.
• Avoid shaking: Shaking the bottle can expose the cologne to excess air, which is harmful. Only shake it if there are specific instructions to do so before application.
• Limit applicators: Reusable applicators can introduce bacteria and oils to the bottles. It's best to use disposable applicators or opt for spraying.
• Fragile bottles: Keep fragile bottles off high shelves to prevent them from falling and shattering.

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 result in over-application or a scent that fades quickly. Here are some tips to help you apply cologne like a pro:

Prepare Your Skin

Cologne should be applied to clean, dry skin. It's best to apply it immediately after showering as this will remove any other scents from your body and open your pores, helping the scent absorb better.

Know Your Pulse Points

Pulse points are the warmer areas of your body that help diffuse the fragrance. These include your wrists, inner elbows, neck, chest, and the backs of your knees. Applying cologne to these areas will help the scent last longer and allow it to meld with your body chemistry to create your signature scent.

Hold the Bottle 3-6 Inches Away

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

Start with a Light Application

Less is more when it comes to cologne. You want the scent to complement your natural body odour, not overpower it. 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 spray there the next time you apply.

Reapply if Needed

Depending on the type of cologne you're using, you may need to reapply throughout the day, especially if you're going out in the evening. When reapplying, simply dab a small amount onto your pulse points.

Avoid Common Mistakes

There are a few common mistakes to avoid when applying cologne:

• Do not spray it on your clothing as this can prevent the scent from developing fully and may damage certain fabrics.
• Do not splash the cologne onto your skin, as this can lead to over-application.
• Do not spray a mist cloud and walk through it, as most of the cologne will end up on the floor.
• Do not rub the cologne into your skin, as this can make the scent fade faster.
• Do not apply too much cologne. Remember, a subtle enhancement is best.

Choose the Right Cologne for You

Different colognes have different concentrations of fragrance oils, which affect their strength and longevity. Choose a scent that complements your natural body chemistry and fits your lifestyle in terms of how long it lasts. You may also want to consider the different scent notes and how they will blend with your skin.

Test Before You Buy

Before purchasing a cologne, be sure to test it to see how it reacts with your body chemistry. You can use scent blotters or test it directly on your skin. Give the scent time to develop—about 30 minutes—before making a decision.

Store Properly

Cologne has a limited shelf life and can deteriorate over time. To make it last longer, store it in a cool, dark place, such as its original box or a dark drawer. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or fluctuations in temperature, as this can shorten its lifespan.

Frequently asked questions