Choosing A Long-Lasting Scent: Tips For Picking A Cologne

Choosing a long-lasting cologne can be tricky, especially if you're looking for something that will stick with you from morning to night. The good news is that there are plenty of options to choose from, and by understanding a few key factors, you can make an informed decision about which cologne is right for you.

First, it's important to know that the longevity of a cologne is determined by its concentration of scent. Fragrances with higher concentrations of scent, such as eau de parfums and parfums, tend to last the longest. These typically have a concentration of 15-20% or higher. On the other hand, fragrances with lower concentrations, like eau de toilettes, will dissipate more quickly.

In addition to concentration, certain notes and families of fragrances tend to have better staying power. Wood notes, including oud, and gourmand notes like vanilla, are known for their longevity. Citrus and fresh scents, on the other hand, may not last as long.

When choosing a long-lasting cologne, it's also important to consider your body chemistry. The same cologne can smell different on different people due to factors like natural skin oils, body temperature, and pH levels. As a result, it's always a good idea to test a cologne on your skin before purchasing it.

To maximise the staying power of your chosen cologne, there are a few application techniques to keep in mind. Applying cologne to moisturised skin and targeting pulse points, such as the neck, wrists, and behind the ears, can help the scent last longer. Additionally, avoiding rubbing the cologne into the skin and instead letting it set can preserve the integrity of the fragrance notes.

Know the different fragrance categories

The world of fragrances is divided into different categories, which can help you understand the concentration of the scent and how long it will last. Here are the main categories to know:

Eau de Cologne

Eau de Cologne has a low concentration of fragrance oil, typically around 2-4%. This means that it will only last for about 2 hours. While it may be tempting to choose a cologne with a lower concentration due to its lighter scent, keep in mind that it will not last as long as other options.

Eau de Toilette

Eau de Toilette has a slightly higher concentration of fragrance oil, ranging from 5-15%. You can expect this type of cologne to last for about 2-3 hours. It is a good option if you are looking for something that is not too overpowering but will still have some staying power.

Eau de Parfum

With a concentration of 15-20% fragrance oil, Eau de Parfum will last for approximately 4-6 hours. This makes it a great choice if you are looking for a cologne that will last through the day or evening. It has a stronger scent that will make a lasting impression.

Parfum

Parfum has the highest concentration of fragrance oil, coming in at around 20-30%. This type of cologne will last for 8 hours or more. If you are looking for a scent that will truly last all day or night, Parfum is the best option. However, keep in mind that the higher concentration may be too intense for some people.

When choosing a long-lasting cologne, it is generally best to opt for an Eau de Parfum or Parfum as they have higher concentrations and will last longer. However, this does not mean that you have to avoid Eau de Colognes and Eau de Toilettes altogether. Some people prefer a lighter scent that they can reapply throughout the day, and these options are usually more affordable. Ultimately, the best cologne for you will depend on your personal preferences and how long you want the scent to last.

Understand what notes last the longest

When it comes to choosing a long-lasting cologne, it's important to understand the different fragrance notes and their longevity. Fragrance notes are the individual scent layers that contribute to the overall scent of a perfume, and they are typically categorised into three types: top notes, heart or middle notes, and base notes.

Top notes are the initial scents that you smell when you first apply a perfume. They tend to be lighter and smaller molecules and evaporate quickly, usually within the first 5 to 15 minutes. Examples of common top notes include citrus scents like lemon, orange, and bergamot, as well as light floral scents like lavender and rose.

Heart or middle notes form the "heart" of the fragrance and become more prominent as the top notes fade. They last longer than top notes and can remain evident for up to four hours. Examples of heart notes include full-bodied, aromatic floral oils like jasmine, geranium, neroli, and ylang-ylang, as well as spices like cinnamon and black pepper.

Base notes are the foundation of the fragrance and have the longest longevity. They kick in about 30 minutes after application and can last for six hours or more. Base notes are usually made of heavier, more tenacious ingredients. Examples of common base notes include vanilla, amber, musk, patchouli, moss, and woody notes like sandalwood and cedarwood.

When choosing a long-lasting cologne, it's best to focus on fragrances with strong base notes. Additionally, synthetic ingredients tend to have a longer-lasting effect than natural ingredients due to the use of odorant molecules created in laboratories, which act as fixatives.

Apply cologne to pulse points

Applying cologne to your pulse points is one of the best ways to make it last longer. Pulse points are areas of the body with high blood circulation, and they include the neck, armpits, knees, wrists, and behind the ears. These spots will help to release the fragrance into the air and infuse it with your body chemistry.

One of the most common mistakes in fragrance application is rubbing the cologne into the skin, which can cause the top notes to evaporate faster and impact the overall wear time. Instead, simply spray it and let it set.

Pulse points, like the wrists and neck, are also warm areas that help to enhance the scent. However, if you want to avoid rubbing off the cologne, spraying it into the crease of your arm, where your bicep meets your forearm, is a great alternative.

Additionally, moisturized skin helps cologne last longer, so applying an unscented body lotion or oil before spraying your cologne is recommended.

Applying cologne to your clothes is another option, but be cautious as some fabrics are prone to staining.

Moisturise skin before applying cologne

Applying cologne to moisturised skin is one of the most effective ways to ensure that your fragrance lasts longer.

Why it works

Hydrated skin is more likely to absorb and retain your cologne than dry, parched skin. Applying a body lotion or cream over your entire body before spraying your cologne will therefore help it to last longer.

How to do it

• Choose an unscented moisturiser to avoid altering the scent of your cologne.
• Pay particular attention to areas where you plan to spritz the cologne, such as your wrists, neck, and behind your ears and knees.
• If you want to be absolutely sure that your cologne will last all day, you can apply petroleum jelly to your pulse points before spraying your cologne. This acts as a barrier between your skin and the cologne, preventing your body's natural oils from breaking down the fragrance.
• If you're using a moisturiser and petroleum jelly, apply the moisturiser first and allow it to absorb into your skin before applying the petroleum jelly.
• Be sure to rub the petroleum jelly into your skin until the area no longer feels greasy to the touch. This will prevent it from staining your clothing.

Other tips for making your cologne last longer

• Take a shower before applying your cologne. The steam from a warm shower will open your pores, helping your skin to absorb the fragrance more readily.
• Apply your cologne to your pulse points, including your wrists, the base of your throat, the inside of your elbows, and behind your knees. These are the warmest spots on your body, which will help keep the scent strong.
• Spritz your cologne onto your hair. Your hair is more porous than your skin and will therefore hold onto the scent for longer.
• Apply your cologne to your clothing. The natural oils in your skin can cause the scent to wear off over time, but if you apply cologne to your clothes, it will cling to the fabric until you wash it.
• Choose a cologne with a heavy scent. Colognes with woody fragrances, such as cedar, patchouli, or juniper, or spicy notes such as clove, ginger, or nutmeg, tend to be longer-wearing.
• Store your cologne properly. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause the fragrance to deteriorate and become less potent. Keep it in a cool, dark place, like a cabinet or drawer, and make sure the lid is tightly closed when you're not using it.

Store cologne in a cool, dark place

To ensure your cologne lasts as long as possible, it's important to store it correctly. Keep your cologne in a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard or drawer, and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat. Sunlight and heat can alter the composition of the fragrance, causing it to degrade faster.

By storing your cologne in a cool, dark place, you can help preserve the quality of the fragrance and maintain its intended scent. This is because heat and sunlight can cause the fragrance oils and other ingredients in the cologne to break down and evaporate more quickly, reducing the intensity and longevity of the scent.

Additionally, try to keep your cologne in its original box or a storage container when not in use. This extra layer of protection can help shield the cologne from light and temperature changes, further prolonging its shelf life.

Proper storage is crucial in maintaining the longevity of your cologne, ensuring that you get the most out of your fragrance for as long as possible.

Frequently asked questions