The Art Of Long-Lasting Fragrance: Applying Cologne

Applying cologne is an art form, and if not done properly, it can lead to over-application or a scent that fades quickly. The key to making cologne last longer is to apply it correctly and take care of it. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your favourite fragrance.

Apply to pulse points

Applying cologne to your pulse points is a great way to make your fragrance last longer. Pulse points are the warm areas of your body where you can feel your heartbeat. They include the neck, inner wrists, behind the ears, the chest, the lower jaw, the forearm, the inner elbow, and the shoulder. The body heat created at these pulse points will help to project the fragrance more effectively and allow it to develop fully.

When applying cologne to your pulse points, hold the bottle about 3-6 inches away from your skin and spray. Avoid rubbing your wrists together after application, as this can damage the top notes of the fragrance, causing it to smell strange as it mixes with the natural oils of your skin. Instead, leave the cologne to dry on your skin.

You can also apply cologne to your hair to make it last longer, as hair retains liquid for longer. However, be mindful that cologne contains alcohol, which can dry out your hair and cause hair loss.

Additionally, ensure your skin is clean and dry before applying cologne to your pulse points. Applying cologne right after a shower is ideal, as the hot steam opens up your pores, allowing the cologne to soak into your skin. You can also apply an unscented moisturiser to your pulse points before spraying on the cologne. This will help lock in the scent and make it last longer.

Moisturise beforehand

Applying cologne to dry skin is a big no-no. When cologne meets dry skin, it evaporates quickly, failing to leave a long-lasting scent.

To avoid this, it's important to moisturise your skin before applying cologne. This ensures your skin is soft and hydrated, allowing the cologne to lock onto your skin.

The best way to do this is to apply an unscented body lotion, moisturiser, or Vaseline to your pulse points before spraying cologne. These points include your neck, wrists, inner elbows, and chest, as they are the warmest areas of your skin.

By moisturising beforehand, you create the perfect base for your cologne to absorb into the skin and develop a longer-lasting aroma.

Remember, always allow the moisturiser to dry before applying cologne, and avoid rubbing the cologne into your skin, as this can break down the fragrance molecules and alter the scent.

Spray on hair

Spraying Cologne on Your Hair

Although spraying cologne on your hair is a common practice, it is not the most effective way to apply fragrance. Hair products can contaminate the scent, and the fragrance may not cycle correctly due to the lack of heat, which is necessary to help it evaporate. This can result in a lingering smell that fails to project and radiate off you.

However, if you still want to spray cologne on your hair, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Avoid using too much cologne. One to three sprays should be enough, depending on the strength of the fragrance.
• Make sure your hair is clean before applying cologne. Wash your hair with your favourite shampoo to give it a pleasant scent.
• Avoid spraying cologne on your hair if it is dry. The alcohol in the cologne can further dry out your hair, making it brittle and prone to breakage.
• Choose an alcohol-free, water-based, or oil-based cologne to minimise the risk of damaging your hair.
• Spray the cologne on the underside of your hair at the nape of your neck, rather than on the top or front, to avoid direct contact with your skin and reduce the risk of irritation.
• If you have long hair, tie it up before spraying to avoid getting cologne on your hair.
• Be cautious when applying cologne near your ears, as it can easily get onto your hair and may be too close to your face, increasing the intensity of the scent.
• Avoid spraying cologne on your hair if you plan to wear hats or scarves, as the fragrance can rub off on these items and leave traces everywhere.
• If you are concerned about the effects of cologne on your hair, consider spraying it on a hairbrush and then brushing your hair to distribute the scent more evenly.

Layer your fragrance

Layering your fragrance is a great way to make your cologne last longer. This involves using complementary products such as soaps, aftershaves, and body balms from the same fragrance line to create a harmonious scent that lasts. By using these products, you can remove competing scents from your repertoire, allowing your cologne to truly shine and be more noticeable.

• Choose a Fragrance Line: Select a fragrance line that you like and commit to using the different products within that line. This could be a designer fragrance with complementary products or a specific scent from a brand that offers a range of items.
• Start with a Shower: Begin the layering process by using the soap, shower gel, or bath products from your chosen fragrance line. This will help to cleanse your skin and create a base for the scent.
• Moisturize: After your shower, apply an unscented or lightly scented moisturizer to your skin. This will help to hydrate your skin and provide a good base for the fragrance. Avoid heavily scented lotions that may clash with your cologne.
• Apply Aftershave or Balm: If your fragrance line includes an aftershave or body balm, apply a small amount to your skin. These products often contain moisturizing agents and can help lock in the scent.
• Spray Your Cologne: Now, apply your cologne as you normally would, focusing on pulse points like your wrists, neck, and chest. The moisturizer and aftershave/balm will help the cologne last longer and smell stronger.
• Reapply Throughout the Day: To further enhance the longevity of your fragrance, consider reapplying the cologne throughout the day. Carry a small bottle with you and spritz a small amount on your pulse points when needed.
• Avoid Overapplication: While layering is effective, be mindful not to overapply the products or cologne. A light application of each product is usually sufficient, and you can always add more if needed.
• Experiment with Different Lines: Don't be afraid to experiment with different fragrance lines to find the one that works best for you. You may discover that certain fragrances have better longevity or suit your body chemistry more effectively.

By layering your fragrance with complementary products, you can enhance the longevity and strength of your cologne, ensuring that you smell great throughout the day. Remember to follow the other tips mentioned, such as avoiding spraying on clothes and storing your cologne properly, for an even more long-lasting scent.

Store it correctly

Storing Your Cologne

The way you store your cologne can have a significant impact on its longevity. Here are some tips to ensure your cologne lasts as long as possible:

• Keep it in a cool, dark, and dry place: Heat, humidity, and light can speed up the breakdown of fragrances. Therefore, it is best to store your cologne in a cool, dark, and dry location, such as your bedroom, in a cupboard, or drawer.
• Avoid the bathroom: The steam from hot showers can destroy fragrance particles, and rapid heat fluctuations can cause the molecules in the cologne to break apart.
• Keep it away from direct sunlight: Sunlight can also cause fragrances to deteriorate, so it is best to store your cologne in its original box or an opaque bottle to protect it from light exposure.
• Store at room temperature: Fluctuations in temperature can shorten the lifetime of a fragrance. Avoid storing cologne in places with rapid temperature changes, such as the bathroom or car.
• Keep the bottle capped: Ensure the bottle cap is secure to prevent the fragrance from evaporating.
• Choose a dark-coloured bottle: The darker the bottle, the longer the liquid inside will last as dark bottles do not let any light in.

Frequently asked questions