Applying Cologne: Behind The Ears For A Signature Scent

Applying cologne behind the ears is a great way to make your fragrance last longer and smell stronger. The area behind the ears is one of the many pulse points on the body, which are considered the best spots to apply fragrances. Pulse points are areas with a lot of blood flow that emanate heat, making them the warmest areas on the body. Since perfume consists primarily of oils and extracts, they cling to the area they're applied to and are amplified by heat, so the more warmth they're exposed to, the stronger they'll smell and the longer they'll last.

How to apply cologne to your pulse points

Applying cologne to your pulse points is a great way to make your fragrance last longer and stand out. Pulse points are areas of your body that produce a lot of body heat, which helps your fragrance release into the air and enhances its scent. Here are some tips on how to apply cologne to your pulse points effectively:

Choose the Right Pulse Points

You can choose from several pulse points to apply your cologne, including behind the ears, the base of the throat, the wrists, the inside of the elbows, and the back of the knees. These areas are among the warmest spots on your body, making them ideal for enhancing your fragrance.

Spray or Dab the Cologne

If your cologne comes in a spray bottle, hold it a few inches away from your chosen pulse point and give yourself a light spritz. Be careful not to overspray, as two to four sprays are usually enough. If your cologne doesn't have a spray nozzle, use the dabbing method. Cover the open bottle with your finger, tip it briefly, then dab a small amount onto your chosen pulse point. Remember, a little goes a long way!

Avoid Rubbing the Cologne

Resist the temptation to rub the cologne into your skin after applying it. Rubbing can change the way the cologne smells and cause the fragrance to evaporate more quickly. Instead, let it dry naturally on your skin.

Consider Your Outfit

If your outfit reveals your chest or midriff, take advantage of the exposed skin by spraying a light spritz of cologne to these areas. This can provide a subtle, sexy sheen of fragrance.

Apply After a Shower

It's best to apply cologne to clean, dry skin. Take a hot shower to open up your pores, providing a good base for the cologne. The natural oils of your skin can interfere with the integrity of the fragrance, so make sure your skin is clean and moisturized before applying.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings

Avoid applying cologne near your eyes, as perfumes containing alcohol and ethyl could cause serious damage if they come into contact with sensitive areas. Similarly, avoid spraying cologne into your armpits, as combining sweat glands with high-alcohol fragrances can result in irritation.

By following these tips, you can effectively apply cologne to your pulse points, ensuring that your fragrance lasts longer and leaves a pleasant scent trail. Remember, less is more, and it's important to be mindful of others when wearing cologne.

Why the area behind your ears is a good spot

The area behind your ears is one of the best spots for applying cologne, known as a "pulse point". Pulse points are areas of the body where your heart pulse can be felt, and they are the warmest areas on the body due to being nexuses of blood flow. Because of this, they are the ideal spots for applying cologne.

Cologne consists primarily of oils and extracts that cling to the area they are applied to. They are amplified by heat, so the more warmth they are exposed to, the stronger they will smell and the longer they will last. The cologne will be locked in once your pores close and cool down after a shower.

Applying cologne behind the ears is a good option if you are going out to a noisy social scene. When people lean in close to you to speak, they will be able to smell your cologne.

You can also apply cologne to other pulse points, such as the bottom of your throat (neck), your wrist, inside your elbow, and behind your knee.

How to avoid making a mess when applying cologne

To avoid making a mess when applying cologne, it's important to be mindful of the amount you're applying, the method of application, and the areas you're targeting. Here are some tips to help you apply cologne neatly and effectively:

Amount and Application:

• Less is more: When it comes to cologne, a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and slowly add more if needed. One spritz or a single dab on each pulse point is usually sufficient.
• Avoid overspraying: If your cologne comes in a spray bottle, hold it a few inches away from your skin to avoid dripping. You can also spray onto your wrists and then dab your wrists behind your ears.
• Don't rub it in: Rubbing the cologne into your skin can alter its scent and cause it to dissipate faster. Instead, let it dry on its own.

Target Areas:

• Choose strategic spots: Apply cologne to your pulse points, which are areas of your body that produce a lot of heat. These include the insides of your wrists, behind your ears, your neck, and your chest.
• Avoid sensitive areas: Do not apply cologne to sensitive areas such as the eyes, armpits, genitals, or hands. The alcohol in cologne can irritate or dry out these areas.
• Be mindful of clothing: Applying cologne directly to your clothes can weaken and fade the scent more quickly. Focus on applying it to your skin, especially the pulse points.

Timing and Frequency:

• Apply after a shower: The heat from the shower will open up your pores, providing a good base for the cologne to last longer.
• Don't reapply too often: You may become accustomed to the smell of your cologne and think it has worn off, but others can still detect it. Once-a-day application is usually enough.

Other Considerations:

• Avoid mixing scents: Strongly scented deodorants, aftershaves, or other products can clash with your cologne. Stick to unscented or lightly scented products to avoid an overwhelming mix of fragrances.
• Be mindful of others: Some people may be sensitive or allergic to cologne. In indoor spaces or close quarters, consider applying sparingly or opting for a lighter scent.

How to make your cologne last longer

Applying cologne to your skin and clothes is an art. It is not just about spraying the cologne on your body and walking out of the door. There are some tips and tricks to make your cologne last longer and keep you smelling good throughout the day.

Prep Your Skin

Take a shower or bath. The steam from a warm shower or bath helps open your pores, so your skin will absorb the fragrance more readily. This helps the scent linger throughout the day, and you won't have to reapply.

Moisturize your skin. Hydrated skin is more likely to soak up your cologne than dry skin, so apply a body lotion or cream over your entire body before spraying cologne, especially in areas where you plan to spritz. If you don't want to alter the scent of your cologne, choose an unscented moisturizer.

Apply petroleum jelly to the desired area. Moisturized skin can help skin soak up cologne, but if you want the fragrance to "stick" all day, dab some petroleum jelly on your pulse points before spraying. The petroleum jelly acts as a barrier, and your body's natural oils won't break down the fragrance.

Applying the Cologne

Use multiple scented products to layer the scent. If you want the scent to last all day, use other products that have the same scent as your cologne. Many fragrance companies offer complementary products for their colognes, such as body washes, deodorants, and body creams. Wearing the cologne over a soap or lotion strengthens the fragrance and makes it last longer.

Spray your pulse points for the most impact. Applying your cologne to the right areas of the body is key to making the scent last. Spritz your pulse points, including behind your ears, the base of your throat, the inside of your elbows, your wrists, and behind your knees. These are the warmest spots on your body, which will help keep the scent strong.

Mist your hair to boost the scent's staying power. Your hair is more porous than your skin and will hold the scent longer. By spritzing some cologne on your hair, you can boost the staying power. If you're worried about the alcohol in your cologne drying out your hair, spray it on your brush or comb and then run it through your hair.

Spritz your clothing for a longer-lasting fragrance. The natural oils in your skin can cause a scent to wear off over time. If you apply some cologne to your clothing, the fragrance will cling to the fabric until you wash it. Spray some on your shirt, jacket, or even an accessory such as a scarf to make sure the scent lingers all day.

Choosing the Right Cologne

Select a heavy scent. Certain colognes and fragrances last longer because they have stronger, heavier scents. For the most lasting power, choose a cologne with a woody fragrance, such as cedar, patchouli, or juniper. Options with spicy notes, such as clove, ginger, or nutmeg, also tend to be longer-wearing.

Check the fragrance's expiration date. Many colognes and perfumes have a best-by date if they contain a lot of natural ingredients. Over time, these ingredients can start to turn, weakening or changing the scent. Some colognes will include an expiration date on the packaging, so be sure to choose a bottle that’s still fresh.

Store the cologne or perfume properly. Extreme temperatures and direct sunlight can alter the oils and other ingredients in cologne, so the scent changes or doesn’t last as long. If you want your fragrance to last all day, it’s important to use a bottle that’s been stored in a cool, dark location.

Other places to apply cologne

The neck

Applying cologne to the sides or back of your neck is a great way to ensure the scent lasts all day. The area behind the ear, in particular, is one of the best spots, as it is a pulse point—an area on the body where the heart pulse can be felt. The warmth of your blood in these areas will amplify the cologne, making it smell stronger and last longer.

The chest

The chest is another pulse point, and a good option if you want to smell your cologne throughout the day without it being too overpowering. However, if you plan on wearing low-cut clothing, this may not be the best option.

Inner elbows

The inner elbows are also pulse points, and a good choice for cologne application.

Forearms

Applying cologne to the forearms is a good alternative to the wrists, especially if you wash your hands a lot.

Back

Some people recommend spraying cologne on the back, but others aren't convinced of its effectiveness.

Collarbone

The collarbone area is a good option for those who want to smell their cologne without it being too overpowering.

Torso

Spraying cologne on the sides of your torso can be a good option, especially if you're wearing a hoodie or a dress shirt.

Belly button

The belly button is another pulse point, and a good option for cologne application.

Hair

Some people like to spray cologne in their hair. However, this may not be the best option, as it can be harmful to your hair. Instead, consider using a specialised hair perfume.

Pulse points

Other pulse points to consider include the wrists, the bottom of the throat, and behind the knees.

Remember, when applying cologne, it's important to be strategic and apply sparingly. Less is more, and you can always add more if needed.

Frequently asked questions