Cologne Conundrum: Am I Overdoing It?

Knowing whether your cologne is too strong is an important skill to have. Too much fragrance can be a turn-off and even cause migraines or allergic reactions in others. It can also indicate depression in the wearer. To test if your cologne is too strong, put some on and wait five seconds, then place a tissue on the spot—if it sticks, you've overdone it. You can also ask yourself whether people need to be very close to you before they comment on your scent. If so, it's probably subtle enough. When applying cologne, remember that a little goes a long way. You only need a few sprays to achieve a great scent.

Apply cologne directly to pulse points

Applying cologne directly to your pulse points is one of the best ways to ensure your cologne is not too strong. Pulse points are the areas on your body where you can feel a pulse, as the artery is close to the surface of your skin. These points include your neck, wrist, behind your ear, inside your elbow, and behind your knee.

Pulse points are ideal spots for applying cologne because they are particularly warm areas of your body. The warmth from the blood flowing close to the surface of your skin helps to diffuse the fragrance, making it more effective and long-lasting. By applying cologne to these points, you can use fewer sprays while still achieving a pleasant scent that will draw people closer rather than repel them.

When applying cologne to your pulse points, hold the bottle three to six inches away from your skin and use one to four spritzes, depending on the strength of the cologne. For everyday use, it is recommended to apply cologne to your neck and inner wrist or chest. If you are going out to a social event, you may want to apply a small amount behind your ear, so people get a pleasant scent when they lean in close to speak to you.

If you are going on a date or to a bar or lounge, you can also consider applying cologne to the area behind your ear or even inside your elbow to increase the overall strength of the scent. Just remember to start small when applying cologne to multiple pulse points, and always consider the strength of the cologne you are using.

Don't spray into the air and walk through it

Don't Spray Your Cologne Into the Air and Walk Through It

While it may be tempting to spray your cologne into the air and walk through it, this method is not the best way to apply your fragrance. Here are a few reasons why you should avoid doing this:

It Won't Last as Long

When you spray your cologne into the air, a lot of it ends up on your clothes or is simply lost to the air. As a result, the scent won't last as long on your skin. Cologne that is applied directly to the skin will have more staying power and will project the scent better.

It's a Waste of Cologne

By spraying into the air, you're essentially wasting your cologne. Much of it doesn't end up on your body, and you'll likely need to use more product to achieve the desired level of scent. This can be especially frustrating if your cologne is expensive or hard to find.

It May Not Smell the Same

When you spray your cologne directly onto your skin, it interacts with your body chemistry, creating a unique scent. Spraying into the air and walking through it can alter the scent, causing it to smell differently than intended. Your body chemistry, including your skin's warmth, can enhance and bring out the different notes of the cologne.

It Can Be Overpowering to Others

Applying cologne by spraying into the air and walking through it can result in an overly strong application. This can be unpleasant for those around you, especially if they are sensitive to strong scents. It's important to be mindful of others and avoid applying too much cologne.

Alternative Application Methods

So, what's the best way to apply cologne? Instead of spraying into the air, target pulse points on your body, such as your wrists, neck, inner elbows, and chest. These areas are warmer and will help the scent last longer. Hold the bottle a few inches away from your skin and apply one or two sprays to each pulse point. Allow the cologne to dry naturally without rubbing it into your skin, as this can alter the scent.

Remember, when it comes to cologne, less is more. It's better to start with a smaller amount and slowly build up if needed. You want your scent to be subtle and inviting, not overwhelming.

Dilute cologne with neutral alcohol, not water

If you find that your cologne is too strong, you can dilute it with neutral alcohol to reduce its potency. Diluting cologne with alcohol is a better option than using water, as water can cause the cologne to become cloudy and may affect its scent.

To dilute your cologne, you will need to purchase perfumer's alcohol, which is stronger than the alcohol found in liquor stores. This alcohol is typically ethyl alcohol that has been denatured, meaning something has been added to make it undrinkable. Using perfumer's alcohol will also allow you to spray your cologne, as it functions as a preservative.

When diluting your cologne, it is important to use a scale rather than measuring by eye or using drops. For a 10% dilution, you will need 10 parts alcohol to 1 part cologne. If you are working with a particularly strong material, you may want to dilute it further, such as a 1% solution, which would be 9.9 parts alcohol to 0.1 parts cologne.

By diluting your cologne with alcohol, you can reduce the strength of the fragrance while still allowing it to be sprayed and carried in a bottle. This method is ideal for those who want to maintain the projection of the scent while sacrificing some of its longevity.

Apply cologne before getting dressed

Applying cologne before getting dressed is a great way to make your fragrance last longer. Spraying cologne on your chest or biceps before putting on your clothes will trap the scent between your skin and clothing. This will help the fragrance to linger throughout the day.

When applying cologne, it is best to hold the bottle at least three to six inches away from your body. This will ensure that the fragrance is dispersed evenly and will prevent you from applying too much in one area.

It is also important to apply cologne sparingly and strategically. Start with a light application on one area, such as the neck or forearms, and use just one spray. If you notice that the scent fades quickly, choose another area to spray the next time you apply. You can always add more, but it's harder to remove cologne if you've applied too much.

If you're worried about over-application, you can also try applying cologne to your pulse points. These areas generate heat and will help to diffuse the fragrance throughout the day. Common pulse points include the wrists, neck, and chest.

Additionally, avoid spraying cologne directly onto your clothes. This can prevent the scent from mixing with your natural oils, which gives it its unique quality. It can also cause stains or damage certain fabrics.

Remember, the key to applying cologne is subtlety. Less is more, and you want your scent to draw people closer, not repel them.

Store cologne in a cool, dry place

Storing cologne in a cool, dry place is essential to preserving the fragrance and preventing degradation. Here are some detailed tips to ensure your cologne remains in optimal condition:

Choose the Right Storage Space

Select a storage area that is away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Sunlight can damage the cologne bottle, and heat can affect the quality of the fragrance. A hallway closet or a drawer in a bedroom are ideal locations, maintaining a consistent temperature and shielding the cologne from light. Avoid placing it on a windowsill or shelf near a heater, as this will accelerate the degradation process.

Store Your Cologne in a Dry Place

Water damage and humidity are detrimental to fragrances. Humidity can cause unwanted chemical reactions, altering the composition of your cologne. Therefore, it is crucial to store your cologne in a dry area, away from humidity fluctuations. If possible, use a dehumidifier in the storage room to maintain a stable environment for your cologne.

Avoid the Bathroom

Despite the name "eau de toilette", the bathroom is the worst place to store your cologne. The bathroom experiences extreme humidity and temperature changes due to showers and baths, creating an unfavourable environment for your cologne. Instead, opt for a closet or cupboard outside the bathroom to maintain a dry and stable environment for your fragrance.

Maintain a Constant Temperature

Keep your cologne in a place with a cool and constant temperature. Avoid areas with polar temperatures, as extreme cold or heat can negatively impact the quality of your cologne. Aim for a temperature of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, creating the perfect environment for long-lasting fragrance preservation.

Store Your Cologne in its Original Box

The cardboard box that your cologne came in is not just for packaging; it serves a functional purpose. Storing your cologne within its original box provides an extra layer of protection from light and temperature changes. When paired with a closet or dark cupboard, you create an optimal environment for preserving the aromatic essence of your cologne.

By following these guidelines and storing your cologne in a cool, dry place, you can ensure that your fragrance remains fresh and potent for an extended period.

Frequently asked questions