The Ultimate Guide To Applying Stick Cologne

Knowing how to apply cologne is an art that can be quickly mastered. The key to making cologne last longer is to apply it to the pulse points, which are the warmest areas of the body. These include the neck, wrists, chest, and inner elbows. However, it is important to choose only one or two spots, so the scent isn't overwhelming. Before applying cologne, it is recommended to take a shower, as the warm water opens the pores, providing a good base for the cologne. When applying, hold the bottle a few inches away from the skin and spray or dab it on, being careful not to rub it in as this can change the scent and make it fade faster.

Pulse points: wrists, neck, behind the ears, etc

Pulse points are areas on the body where blood vessels are close to the skin's surface. These spots emit heat, which helps to diffuse and magnify the scent of your cologne, making it more noticeable and long-lasting.

Wrists

This is the most common pulse point to apply cologne to. Simply spray a small amount of cologne on the inside of your wrists and gently dab or pat your wrists together. Avoid rubbing your wrists together, as this can cause the fragrance to break down and fade more quickly.

Neck

The neck is another great place to apply cologne. Spray a small amount on your neck, avoiding your throat. For everyday use, you can stick to applying cologne to the bottom of your throat (neck). If you are going out, you might want to apply a small amount behind your ears so that people get a pleasant whiff when they get close to your face.

Behind the ears

This is a good place to apply cologne if you want it to last longer. It is also a good option for those who don't like to apply cologne directly to their necks.

Inside the elbows

The inside of your elbows is a good pulse point to use if you want your cologne to be more subtle.

Back of the knees

The soft area behind your knees is another pulse point perfect for cologne. If you're wearing shorts or a dress, the scent will kick up as you cross your legs and move around.

Don't rub it in

When applying cologne, it is important to remember not to rub it into your skin. This is because rubbing the cologne can damage the molecules, causing them to dissipate faster. Instead, you should spritz or dab the cologne onto your skin and let it dry.

Rubbing cologne into the skin can also change the way it smells. This is because fragrances are straight chemistry, and chemistry is all about transformation. The fragrance will interact with your body's natural oils and chemicals, and this can slightly alter the scent. This is why the same fragrance can smell different on different people.

If you are using a spray cologne, hold the bottle about 3-6 inches away from your skin and spritz onto your pulse points. These are the areas of your body that produce a lot of body heat, such as the insides of your wrists, your neck, behind your ears, your chest, and your inner elbows. The heat will help the fragrance to continue to smell good all day long.

If your cologne does not have a spray nozzle, use the dabbing method. Cover the open bottle with your finger, tip it briefly, then put it down. Dab the liquid onto your finger and apply it to your chosen pulse point. Remember, one small dab is enough. Wash your hands after using this method to avoid transferring cologne to other objects.

Spray from a few inches away

When applying cologne, it is important to hold the bottle the correct distance from your body. Holding the bottle too close can result in over-application, while holding it too far away can result in under-application. The recommended distance is generally between 3 and 6 inches away from your body. This ensures that the cologne is applied evenly and avoids wasting the product.

Different sources suggest different optimal distances for spraying cologne. Some people recommend holding the bottle 2 to 4 inches away from the skin, while others suggest a distance of 5 to 6 inches. Ultimately, the optimal distance may depend on personal preference and the type of spray nozzle on the bottle. A distance of a few inches allows for a more concentrated application, while a greater distance allows for a more diffuse application.

It is also important to consider the areas of the body where you are applying the cologne. The recommended distance of a few inches is ideal for applying cologne to the wrists, forearms, neck, and chest. These areas are known as pulse points, which are warmer areas of the body that help to diffuse the scent throughout the day. Applying cologne to these areas allows it to meld with your body chemistry and develop your signature scent.

When spraying cologne, it is recommended to start with a light application and build up as needed. This helps to avoid over-application and ensures that the scent is not overpowering. It is also a good idea to ask for feedback from a close friend or family member, as you can become accustomed to the scent and may not notice if you are applying too much.

Don't mix cologne with other smells

Don't Mix Cologne with Other Scents

While it can be tempting to reach for the deodorant or body spray to complement your cologne, it's important to remember that cologne is a strong scent and can easily overpower other fragrances. Layering too many products can result in an overwhelming aroma that may irritate your senses and those of people around you.

Colognes are designed to be long-lasting, so you don't need to worry about the scent fading throughout the day. If you feel that you need to reapply, carry a small, travel-sized bottle with you, or opt for complementary products with the same scent, such as body washes, deodorants, or body creams. Using the same scent across different products will strengthen the fragrance and make it last longer without creating an unpleasant mix of smells.

Additionally, be mindful of your surroundings and activities. Drinking, smoking, and eating certain foods can alter the scent of your cologne. For example, wearing a strong cologne to an Indian restaurant will result in an interesting mix of fragrances that may not be pleasant. Choose a lighter cologne for such occasions or opt for a different fragrance altogether.

Finally, remember that cologne, by nature, is very strong. A little goes a long way, and it's better to slowly add more than to apply too much at once and have to shower to remove the smell. As a general rule, one spritz to each pulse point is sufficient. Pulse points are areas where your heart pulse can be felt, such as behind your ear, at the bottom of your throat, on your wrist, inside your elbow, and behind your knee. Applying cologne to these warm areas will help the scent linger throughout the day.

Don't reapply too often

You'll quickly grow accustomed to the smell of your cologne, to the point where you might think it has completely worn off. However, other people will still be able to smell it. It's important to remember that cologne is designed to be subtle. It should be a subtle enhancement to your image, not something that is overpowering.

You probably don't need to apply cologne more than once a day, right before you go out. If you absolutely feel the need to put on some more, keep it light. One spray on a single area, such as the neck or forearms, is usually enough. If you notice that the scent fades quickly, choose another area and spray there the next time you apply.

When it comes to cologne, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should reapply. The frequency depends on several factors, including the type of cologne, the weather, and your body chemistry. If you're wearing a light, fresh scent, you'll need to reapply more often than if you're wearing a heavier, more pungent scent. In warm weather, you'll also need to reapply more often than in cool weather, as heat and sweat can cause the fragrance to evaporate more quickly.

Additionally, your skin chemistry can play a role in how long cologne lasts. Dry skin tends to absorb perfume molecules faster, making the scent last for a shorter period of time. If you have dry skin, try applying cologne after using a scent-free moisturiser on your body. This can help extend the life of your cologne.

Frequently asked questions