The Art Of Layering Men's Cologne: A Guide To Mastering Scents

Layering cologne is an art, and when done right, it can help you create a unique signature scent. The basic idea is to combine two or three fragrances to create a personalised aroma that reflects your individuality. Layering fragrances can also help extend the longevity of your cologne, ensuring that it lingers on your skin throughout the day.

The first step to layering cologne is to identify the fragrances you want to combine. You can do this by experimenting with various fragrances or by understanding the technical side of scent layering. Fragrances are broadly categorised into four types: Flora, Oriental, Woody, and Fresh. These families are further divided into subcategories and plotted onto scent wheels, which can be used as a reference when layering fragrances.

When layering cologne, it is important to consider the power and concentration of the fragrances you plan to use. Combining different strengths will help you achieve a balanced scent. It is also crucial to prep your skin by moisturising before applying cologne, as this will help the fragrances stick to your skin. When applying cologne, concentrate the sprays on areas like your wrists, behind the ears, and the inside of your elbows, as these areas emit the most heat, allowing for better diffusion of the scent.

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to layering cologne, some popular combinations include Prada Infusion d`Homme with Yardley Citrus and Wood, and Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gio with DSQUARED² He Wood Rocky Mountain Wood. You can also get creative and combine fragrances with similar ingredients or vibes, such as florals or roses.

Start with a base layer

The first step in layering your fragrances is to establish a base layer. This foundational scent will set the stage for the subsequent fragrances you'll layer on top. Here are some tips and recommendations for creating a captivating base layer:

Scented Body Wash or Shower Gel

A great way to begin your layering journey is by using a scented body wash or shower gel as your base. Many fragrance brands offer complementary bath and body products alongside their perfumes or colognes. For example, Jo Malone is known for their exquisite options in this category. Using a scented body wash from the same fragrance family as your cologne will create a harmonious base layer that enhances the subsequent fragrances.

Skin Moisturizers

Before applying your cologne, it's a good idea to moisturize your skin. This not only keeps your skin hydrated but also helps the fragrances adhere better, ensuring they last longer throughout the day. Apply a light, unscented moisturizer to your skin, focusing on the areas where you'll be spraying your cologne, such as your wrists, neck, and behind your ears.

Pulse Points

When creating your base layer, it's essential to target your pulse points. These areas include your wrists, the inside of your elbows, behind your ears, and the base of your throat. These parts of your body emit more heat, allowing the scent to diffuse more effectively and prolonging the longevity of your cologne.

Heavier Fragrances First

When layering multiple colognes, it's generally recommended to start with the heavier fragrance. Heavier fragrances are those with more dominating scents, such as ouds, leathers, or woody notes. These fragrances tend to have stronger base notes, so applying them first will ensure that they don't overpower the lighter fragrances in your layering combination.

Fragrance Families

When selecting your base layer, consider the fragrance family or the overall vibe you want to achieve. Fragrances are often categorized into four main families: Flora, Oriental, Woody, and Fresh. You can explore subcategories within these families using scent wheels, which can be incredibly helpful when layering. Choose a base layer that aligns with the overall theme you want to create.

Experiment and Have Fun

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to fragrance layering. It's an art that encourages experimentation and creativity. Don't be afraid to mix and match different fragrances to find combinations that suit your unique taste and personality. Enjoy the process of discovering new scent combinations and let your senses guide you!

Prep your skin

Before layering colognes, it's important to prepare your skin to ensure the fragrances last throughout the day. Start by moisturising your skin, as this will help the cologne stick to your skin. You can use any skincare product with a scent, such as body butter or moisturiser, as a base layer. Alternatively, you can use scented body wash or shower gel.

When applying cologne, concentrate the sprays on the areas of your body that emit the most heat, such as your wrists, behind your ears, and the inside of your elbows. These areas will allow the scent to diffuse more effectively.

Consider the strengths of the fragrances

When layering fragrances, it's important to consider the strengths of the individual scents. Typically, fragrances are divided into categories based on their concentration of perfume oils, which determines their strength and how long they last on the skin. Here are the key categories:

Eau Fraiche: This is the most diluted form of fragrance, containing 1-3% perfume oil in alcohol and water. It usually lasts for less than an hour.

Cologne (Eau de Cologne): This is the oldest term for perfume and is commonly used for masculine scents. It typically contains 2-4% perfume oils in alcohol and water, resulting in a light, fresh, and fruity scent. Cologne tends to be used for younger audiences and lasts for about 2 hours.

Toilette (Eau de Toilette): This is a light spray composition containing 5-15% pure perfume essence dissolved in alcohol. It usually lasts for about 3 hours.

Perfume (Eau de Parfum): Historically genderless, this term is now commonly used for men's fragrances. Eau de parfum contains 15-20% pure perfume essence and lasts for about 5 to 8 hours.

Parfum: Parfum is the most concentrated and expensive type of fragrance. It is composed of 20-30% pure perfume essence and can last up to 24 hours. It has a slightly oilier consistency than the other categories.

When layering fragrances, it's important to start with the heavier, more dominant fragrance, and then layer the lighter, brighter scent on top. Heavier fragrances typically include those with woody notes, leather, or oud. Lighter fragrances often have brighter, fresher notes such as citrus or floral scents.

Additionally, when combining fragrances, it's best to look for two scents with a common note, such as jasmine or vetiver. Once you're more experienced, you can start combining opposite notes, such as oriental cardamom and citrusy bergamot.

Know where to apply

When applying cologne, focus on areas that emit the most heat, such as your wrists, behind the ears, and the inside of your elbows. These spots will allow the scent to diffuse more effectively and linger throughout the day.

If you want an equal blend of both fragrances, spray them at the same time. However, if you prefer one over the other, spray your favourite last and a little more generously.

Additionally, you can use scented body washes, oils, shower gels, body butters, moisturisers, or skincare products as a base layer to enhance the fragrances that follow.

Experiment with different fragrance combinations

Experimenting with different fragrance combinations is a fun way to create a unique scent that suits your preferences and personality. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started:

Choose Your Scents

The first step is to select the fragrances you want to layer. You can choose any fragrances you like, but it's a good idea to start with scents that complement each other. Look for fragrances with shared ingredients, olfactory families, or a similar "vibe". For example, if you like floral scents, you might pair a tuberose fragrance with one that has sweet wisteria, honeysuckle, and jasmine notes. Alternatively, you could pair a bold, unique fragrance with a lighter, brighter scent. For instance, you could combine a heavier fragrance with dominant notes like oud, leather, or woody scents with a lighter, brighter scent like rose or citrus.

Prepare Your Skin

Before applying your fragrances, it's a good idea to prepare your skin. Moisturizing your skin before spraying on your cologne will help the scent last longer and stick to your skin better.

Application Technique

When applying your fragrances, concentrate the sprays on your pulse points, such as your wrists, behind your ears, and the inside of your elbows. These areas emit the most heat, allowing the scent to diffuse more effectively. If you're layering two fragrances, the general rule is to start with one spray of the deeper, richer fragrance, followed by two sprays of the brighter, lighter fragrance. However, if you want a perfect equilibrium between the two scents, spray both perfumes at the same time. If you prefer one fragrance over the other, spray your favourite last and be a little more generous with it.

Recommended Combinations

• Tom Ford's Ébène Fumé and Bitter Peach
• Diptyque's Eau de Minthé and Philosykos, or Eau de Minthé Eau de Toilette and Eau Rose Eau de Parfum
• Jo Malone London's Wood Sage & Salt and Myrrh & Tonka
• Tom Ford's Oud Wood and Neroli Portofino
• Le Labo's Santal 33 and Baie 19
• Prada's Infusion d`Homme and Yardley's Citrus and Wood
• Tom Ford's Noir de Noir and Tobacco Vanille
• Giorgio Armani's Acqua di Gio and DSQUARED² He Wood Rocky Mountain Wood
• Chanel's Egoïste Platinum and Prada's Amber Pour Homme
• Thierry Mugler's AMen Pure Malt and Burberry London for Men
• Lalique's Encre Noire and Tom Ford's Black Orchid
• Frederic Malle's Portrait Of A Lady and Diptyque's L’Ombre Dans L’Eau or Eau Rose Eau de Toilette

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to fragrance layering. Feel free to experiment, be creative, and find combinations that suit your unique taste and style.

Frequently asked questions