Making Cologne: The Art Of Long-Lasting Fragrance

There are several ways to make cologne smell longer. Firstly, it is recommended to apply cologne right after a shower when the pores are most open, allowing the cologne to seep into the skin. Moisturizing beforehand is also beneficial, as it helps the skin retain the cologne scent. Applying cologne to pulse points, such as the wrists, neck, and behind the knees, is another effective method as these areas are warmer, allowing the scent to develop and linger. It is also important to store cologne properly, in a cool, dry, and dark place, as heat, humidity, and light can cause the scent to break down faster. Additionally, layering fragrances by using complementary products can help to enhance and prolong the scent. However, it is crucial not to overapply cologne, as this can be overwhelming for others.

Apply after showering

Applying cologne after showering is a great way to ensure the scent lasts longer. The best time to apply cologne is immediately after showering, as your pores are at their most open, allowing the cologne to seep into the skin. This gives you a longer-lasting aroma.

Firstly, completely dry off your skin after showering. Hold the cologne bottle 3-6 inches from your body when spraying. Any closer than 3 inches and you risk over-applying, and spraying further than 6 inches away will likely result in under-applying.

Apply cologne to heated areas of the body, such as the neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, and inner elbows. These areas will help diffuse the scent throughout the day and allow it to meld with your body chemistry to develop your signature scent.

It is recommended to start with a light application. Choose one area, such as the neck or forearms, and start with one spray. If you notice the scent fading quickly, choose another area and spray there the next time you apply. You may want to ask a friend or family member for their opinion, as it is possible to become nose-blind to scents you wear often.

It is also important to avoid rubbing cologne into the skin, as this can make the scent fade faster by breaking the molecular bond in the fragrance. Instead, simply dab or spray the cologne onto your skin and let it dry.

Moisturise beforehand

Moisturising your skin before applying cologne is a great way to make the scent last longer. This is because hydrated skin is more likely to soak up the cologne than dry skin.

It is recommended that you apply a body lotion or cream all over your body, paying particular attention to the areas where you plan to spritz the cologne. If you don't want to alter the scent of your cologne, be sure to choose an unscented moisturiser. If you have particularly dry skin, you may want to opt for a body butter or thicker cream to ensure your skin is fully hydrated.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can apply petroleum jelly to the areas where you plan to spray the cologne. This acts as a barrier between your skin and the cologne, so your body's oils aren't able to break down the fragrance as quickly. Just be sure to rub it into your skin until the area isn't greasy to the touch, as petroleum jelly can stain clothing.

If you want to ensure your cologne lasts all day, it's also a good idea to use other products that have the same scent, such as body washes, deodorants, and body creams.

Layer your fragrance

Layering your fragrance is a great way to make your cologne last longer and smell stronger. It involves using multiple scented products with the same or complementary scents to create a unique, long-lasting aroma. Here are some tips to help you layer your fragrances effectively:

Choose Complementary Scents

Select fragrances that complement each other and blend well together. You can achieve this by using products from the same brand or fragrance family, such as soaps, aftershaves, body washes, and balms designed to accompany your cologne. By removing competing scents, you can create a harmonious and well-rounded fragrance that lasts longer.

Apply the Strongest Fragrance First

When layering different fragrances, start with the strongest, most potent scent. This will serve as the base for your unique aroma. Then, delicately layer it with milder fragrances to create a personalised scent. This technique ensures compatibility between scents and allows you to craft a truly individual fragrance.

Target Pulse Points

Apply your fragrances to your pulse points, which are the warmest areas of your body. These include the wrists, neck, inside of the elbows, and behind the knees. The heat from these areas will amplify the fragrance release and help your scent last throughout the day. Remember to position the nozzle a few inches away from your skin and spray each area sparingly to avoid an overpowering effect.

Moisturise Your Skin

Moisturised skin retains scent longer. Apply an unscented lotion or a matching moisturiser before spraying your fragrance. You can also use petroleum jelly on your pulse points to create a barrier between your skin and the cologne, helping it last much longer. However, be careful not to overuse petroleum jelly, as it can stain your clothes.

Avoid Rubbing Your Skin

Resist the urge to rub your wrists together or dab your skin after applying the cologne. This action can break down the fragrance molecules, causing the scent to disappear faster. Instead, let the cologne dry naturally on your skin for better longevity.

Apply to pulse points

Pulse points are the areas on your body where your heart pulse can be felt. These spots are ideal for applying cologne because the warmth of your blood enhances the fragrance and makes it last longer.

The wrists are perhaps the most common place to apply cologne. Spray your inner wrists, where the pulse is strongest, and avoid rubbing them together to distribute the fragrance. Instead, apply the cologne to each wrist separately.

Another common pulse point is the neck, specifically the base of the throat or just below the jawline. This is where the carotid artery is located, so the pulse is one of the strongest.

You can also apply cologne behind the ears. This ensures that the cologne will wind up in your hair, contributing to its range and longevity.

The inside of the elbows is another pulse point. Applying cologne here allows the fragrance to bubble around you and ensures that it lingers within the fibres of your clothes.

Finally, you can apply cologne behind the knees. This ensures that your entire body, from head to toe, smells good.

Store cologne correctly

Storing cologne correctly is essential to keep it in good condition. Here are some detailed tips to ensure your cologne lasts longer and retains its fragrance:

Keep it in a Dark Place

Avoid exposing your cologne to direct sunlight or artificial lighting. Light can cause the structures within the fragrance to break down, leading to an unpleasant sour smell. Keep the cologne in a dark storage area, such as a closet, cabinet, or drawer.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Maintain a constant, cool temperature for your cologne. Avoid extreme temperatures as they can affect the chemical structure of the fragrance. Do not store cologne in the bathroom or kitchen due to temperature fluctuations and humidity. Instead, opt for a hallway closet or bedroom dresser.

Keep it in the Original Box

The original packaging provides additional protection against light and moisture. It also helps maintain a consistent temperature. Keeping the cologne in its box can also provide cushioning if the bottle is accidentally dropped.

Store on a Low-Level Shelf

Place your cologne on a lower shelf to prevent accidental falls. If the bottle falls and shatters, it can leave a strong lingering smell in the room and result in the loss of your fragrance.

Keep the Bottle Sealed

Ensure the bottle is closed tightly when not in use. Introducing oxygen to the cologne can lead to oxidation, causing the scent to dilute and fade over time. Only open the bottle when you are ready to use it.

Avoid Excessive Shaking

Shaking the cologne bottle can introduce unwanted oxidation through the formation of bubbles. This can ruin the delicate chemical bonds in the fragrance, diluting the scent.

Frequently asked questions