The Art Of Applying Cologne: A Guide For Men

Knowing how to apply cologne is an art form. If not done properly, it can lead to over-application or a scent that fades quickly. Cologne should be applied sparingly and in the right places. It should be applied to the pulse points, which are areas of the body that produce a lot of body heat. The heat helps the fragrance to continue to smell good all day long. The insides of the wrists, the neck, behind the ears, and the chest are good spots for cologne. It is important to hold the spray bottle 3-6 inches from the body when applying. Cologne should also be applied to clean, dry skin, preferably right after a shower.

How much cologne to use

We've all been around someone who's doused themselves in cologne. It's overpowering and off-putting. But how do you avoid being that person? The key is to remember that, when it comes to cologne, less is more.

When applying cologne, it's important to start with a light application. Choose one area, like the neck or forearms, and begin with one spray. If you notice that the scent fades quickly, choose another area and spray there the next time you apply. You can always add more, but it's difficult to remove cologne if you've applied too much.

The number of sprays will depend on the strength of the fragrance, the occasion, and personal preference. As a general rule, it's best to start with one or two sprays and then add more if needed. For a lighter fragrance, such as a citrus or floral cologne, one or two sprays should be enough. For a stronger scent, such as a woody or musky fragrance, you may want to start with two or three sprays.

It's important to apply cologne to the right areas of the body. Target the pulse points, which are the warmest parts of the body, such as the wrists, neck, lower jaw, forearm, inner elbow, and chest. These areas will help to diffuse the scent throughout the day. However, don't spray cologne on all these points at once. Choose a few spots and keep it subtle.

Other Tips for Applying Cologne

• Apply cologne to clean, dry skin, preferably right after a shower.
• Hold the spray bottle 3-6 inches away from your body when applying.
• Don't rub the cologne into your skin, as this can change the scent and make it fade faster.
• Don't mix cologne with other strongly-scented products, like deodorant or aftershave.
• Re-apply cologne sparingly, if needed, especially if you're going out in the evening.

Where to apply cologne

Applying cologne to the right places is key to making the scent last all day without being overpowering. The best spots to apply cologne are the body's pulse points or heated areas, where the warmth from your blood will help the fragrance diffuse throughout the day.

The pulse points include the wrists, neck, behind the ears, the bottom of the throat, the inside of the elbows, the chest, and the forearms. When applying cologne, choose one or two of these spots and start with a light application. You can always add more later if needed.

It's also important to note that cologne should not be applied to areas where you sweat excessively, as less appealing smells may mix with the cologne and create an unpleasant odour. Additionally, cologne should not be sprayed directly onto clothing, as it may stain or damage the fabric.

How to apply cologne

Applying cologne is an art form. Done properly, cologne can complement your personal style, boost your confidence, and make you feel more attractive. Done improperly, you risk over-application or a scent that fades too quickly. Here are some tips to help you apply cologne like a pro:

Apply to Clean Skin

Start by applying cologne immediately after showering. The shower will cleanse your body of any other scents and open your pores, helping the scent absorb. Be sure to completely dry your skin before spraying cologne.

Hold the Bottle 3-6 Inches Away

Hold the cologne bottle about 3 to 6 inches away from your body when spraying. Holding the bottle any closer than 3 inches risks over-application, while spraying from further than 6 inches away may result in under-application.

Target Pulse Points and Heated Areas

Apply cologne to your pulse points and heated areas of the body, such as the neck, wrists, chest, forearms, and inner elbows. These areas generate heat, helping to diffuse the scent throughout the day and allowing it to meld with your body chemistry to create your signature scent.

Start with a Light Application

When it comes to cologne, less is more. Start with a light application—choose one area, like the neck or forearms, and apply one spray. If you notice that the scent fades quickly, choose another area and apply cologne there the next time. You can always add more, but it's harder to fix over-application.

Re-apply if Needed

Depending on the type of cologne and how long you need it to last, you may need to re-apply, especially if you're going out in the evening. When re-applying, simply dab a small amount onto your pulse points.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Spraying on Clothing: Spraying cologne on your clothes prevents it from mixing with your natural oils, resulting in a flat, monochrome scent. It can also stain or damage certain fabrics.
• Splashing on Skin: If your cologne doesn't have a spray nozzle, avoid splashing it onto your skin, as this can lead to over-application. Instead, place your finger over the opening of the bottle and gently tip it upside down before dabbing the scent onto your body.
• Walking Through a Mist Cloud: Spraying cologne into the air and walking through it wastes most of the fragrance, as it ends up on the floor instead of your body.
• Rubbing into the Skin: Rubbing cologne into your skin can break down the molecular bond in the fragrance, causing the scent to fade faster. If you're not spraying, simply dab the cologne onto your skin without rubbing.
• Applying Too Much: A subtle hint of cologne is more appealing than an overpowering cloud. Your cologne should be discovered, not announced. It should be noticeable during a hug, not a handshake.

When to wear cologne

Knowing when to wear cologne is an important part of mastering the art of applying cologne. Cologne is not necessary at work, but it's generally acceptable. It is more appropriate for big events, such as weddings, funerals, parties, or a night out.

It's important to be aware of how your body's oils interact with your cologne. For example, if you're going clubbing, applying lots of cologne might not be the best idea as your natural body odour mixed with cologne may be even more offensive.

Some people are allergic to cologne, so it's important to be sensitive to this when working in an office or spending time indoors.

You should wear cologne because it makes you feel good and boosts your confidence. It's important to remember that less is more when it comes to cologne, and you do not want it to be overpowering.

It's also worth noting that cologne does not last forever. Fluctuations in temperature can shorten its lifetime, so storing cologne in the bathroom is not recommended.

When it comes to choosing a cologne, you may want to opt for a lighter, citrus-based scent for afternoons and workplace environments, and a stronger scent with spice undertones or musky notes for the night.

How to store cologne

Knowing how to store cologne is essential to prolonging its life and ensuring you get the most out of your purchase. Here are some detailed tips on how to store cologne:

Choose the Right Storage Space

The ideal storage spot for cologne is a dark, dry place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can damage the cologne bottle, and the fragrance tends to last longer when stored in darker places. A closet or drawer is a good option. If you decide to store your cologne in a drawer, ensure it is not in the bathroom or kitchen, as these areas are subject to temperature changes and humidity. Instead, opt for a closet or drawer in a hallway or living room.

Select the Right Storage Container

It is best to keep your cologne in its original bottle. Decorative bottles may be tempting, but they are not airtight and can introduce bacteria and air into the cologne, causing it to spoil. If you want to display your cologne, place the original bottle on a shelf or container, perhaps on a mirror or silver tray.

Prevent Damage

Always keep the cap on the bottle when not in use. Oxygen is cologne's worst enemy, and leaving the cap off can ruin the mixture. Avoid shaking the cologne bottle, as this can introduce unwanted oxidation and break delicate chemical bonds. Keep fragile bottles on lower shelves or in drawers to prevent them from falling and shattering.

Additional Tips

• If you live in a humid environment, consider storing your cologne in a room with a dehumidifier.
• Store your cologne in its original box, as these were made to hold the aromatic elixir within and can increase the life of the scent.
• If you have a collection of colognes, consider investing in a display cabinet to show them off while still protecting them from direct sunlight.

Frequently asked questions