Wearing Cologne: How To Smell Your Signature Scent

Knowing how much cologne to apply can be tricky. You want to smell good without overpowering those around you. The key is to remember that it's easy to become desensitized to your own scent. If you can still smell your cologne a couple of hours after applying, it's likely that people around you are struggling.

So, how much is too much? If people around you are sneezing, complaining of migraines, or avoiding standing next to you, then you've probably overdone it. A good rule of thumb is to avoid spraying more than twice or leaving the skin still quite moist after application. A small dab on the skin or, at a push, in your hair, is usually enough.

Pulse points

There are nine pulse points on the body, including the foot, temples of the head, neck, and inner wrist. When applying cologne, you should target two to four of these pulse points. It is recommended to spray from three to six inches away, using one to four spritzes, depending on the strength of the cologne.

For everyday use, the best pulse points to apply cologne are the sides of the throat and the inner wrist or chest. This combination provides a subtle scent that is suitable for an office environment. If you are going out or on a date, you can also apply cologne behind the ear, so that people get a pleasant whiff when they lean in close.

For more intense scenarios, such as dates or nights out, you can consider applying cologne inside the elbow or on the back of the knee. If you are at the beach or wearing shorts, a light spritz on the top of the foot can also enhance your scent. However, it is important to remember that the more pulse points you target, the less cologne you need to use, and a lighter scent is generally preferable.

Cologne concentrations

When it comes to cologne, there are several types of fragrance concentrations to be aware of, each with its own unique characteristics. Here is a detailed guide to help you understand cologne concentrations:

Parfum

Parfum, also known as extract or extrait, has the highest concentration of perfume oils, typically ranging from 20% to 40%. This high concentration results in greater purity and longevity, allowing the scent to last on the skin for up to six to eight hours. Due to its high concentration, parfum is generally the most expensive type of fragrance.

Eau de Parfum (EDP)

Eau de Parfum has a slightly lower concentration of perfume oils, usually ranging from 15% to 20%. It offers good longevity, lasting around four to five hours on the skin. With a lower oil level, there is more alcohol added, making Eau de Parfum less expensive than parfum. This concentration is often used for fragrances worn in the evening or on a night out.

Eau de Toilette (EDT)

Eau de Toilette has a lower concentration of perfume oils, typically ranging from 5% to 15%. The reduced oil content leads to a further drop in longevity, with EDT lasting around three to four hours on average. It is generally cheaper than Eau de Parfum and is a popular choice for fragrances worn during the day.

Eau de Cologne (EDC)

Eau de Cologne has an even lower concentration of perfume oils, typically ranging from 2% to 5%. As a result, its longevity is shorter, lasting around two hours. Eau de Cologne is often used as a refreshing splash to awaken the senses and is perfect for layering with other fragrances or unscented body lotions.

Body Cream/Lotion

Body creams or lotions typically have a low concentration of perfume oils, ranging from 3% to 4%. They are designed to moisturise the skin while providing a subtle fragrance. Layering them with colognes or Eau de Toilette can help extend the longevity of the fragrance, especially in hot temperatures.

After Shave/Splash

After-shave or splash fragrances typically have a low concentration of perfume oils, similar to Eau de Cologne, at 2% to 4%. They are designed to provide a refreshing sensation after shaving and can be used to enhance the longevity of other fragrances.

It is important to note that different brands may have slight variations in their concentration levels, and the specific notes in a fragrance can also impact its strength and longevity. Additionally, higher concentrations do not always equate to better longevity, as the quality of the blend and the wearer's preference play a significant role.

How much to apply

The amount of cologne you should apply depends on its concentration. The higher the concentration, the less you need to apply. Cologne concentrations are typically labelled as follows:

• Eau Fraiche: 1-3% oil concentration.
• Eau de Cologne: 3-5% concentration.
• Eau de Toilette: 5-8% concentration.
• Eau de Parfum: 8-15% concentration.
• Parfum or Extrait de Parfum: 15-30% concentration, with some options reaching up to 40%.

If you're using an Eau de Parfum or Parfum, a little goes a long way. You may only need a single spritz on your wrist, which you can then rub onto your neck. If you're using an Eau de Toilette or a lower concentration, you may benefit from an extra spritz.

A good rule of thumb is to avoid applying so much that the skin is still moist after a few seconds. You should also be mindful of how long the cologne lasts. If you can still smell it without rubbing your finger on your neck after 30 minutes, you've probably applied too much.

It's worth noting that you can become desensitised to your own scent, so it's a good idea to ask a friend for feedback.

Spraying technique

The first thing to consider when applying cologne is the concentration of the fragrance. The higher the concentration, the less cologne you need to apply. For example, if you have an Eau de Parfum (8-15% concentration), you will need less than if you have an Eau de Toilette (5-8% concentration).

The best way to apply cologne is to target your pulse points—the "warmest" points on your body, such as your wrists and neck. This will help the scent perform to its fullest potential and create a strong "trail" when you walk away. Hold the bottle about 6 inches away from your skin when spraying to avoid over or under-concentrating the scent.

It is recommended to start with one spritz on each wrist and then rub your wrists on your neck. If, after a few wears, you feel that this is not enough, you can add a second spritz.

It is important to note that it is very difficult to judge how you smell yourself, so it is a good idea to ask a friend or partner for their opinion.

If you are using a solid cologne, start with a small amount for each wrist and the neck, and then adjust the amount as needed.

How to check if you've applied too much

How to Smell Your Own Cologne

It's easy to get carried away when applying cologne, especially if it's a new scent you're excited about. But how can you tell if you've gone overboard? Here are some tell-tale signs and tips to help you find that perfect balance.

Ask for Feedback

The people around you can be a great indicator of whether you've applied too much cologne. If they compliment your scent but also seem to be trying to subtly turn their noses away, it might be a sign that you've overdone it. It's a good idea to ask a trusted friend or family member for their honest opinion. They can provide valuable feedback on how your cologne is projecting and adjust the number of sprays accordingly.

Be Mindful of the Occasion and Environment

The amount of cologne considered "too much" can vary depending on the situation and your surroundings. For example, when going out on the town, you may be able to get away with a few extra sprays since you'll be in a more open environment and won't be lingering in one spot for too long. On the other hand, in a closed work environment or a small gathering, one or two sprays are usually enough, as you don't want to overwhelm those around you in a confined space.

Pay Attention to Physical Reactions

If you start to experience a sharp headache or sneezing after applying your cologne, it's a strong indicator that you've applied too much. Some people may also complain of migraines or even try to avoid standing too close to you. This is because certain fragrances can trigger intolerances and physical reactions in others, and excessive amounts can exacerbate these issues.

Less is More

As a general rule of thumb, it's best to start with a light hand when applying cologne. One to two sprays are usually sufficient, and you want to avoid leaving the applied area moist after application. Most perfumes are long-lasting, so a small dab on your skin or hair is typically all you need. Remember, you can always add more if needed, but it's harder to remove it if you've applied too much.

Trust Your Instincts

While it's easy to become desensitized to your own scent, if you're very aware of the fragrance you're producing, it might be a sign that you've applied too much. Trust your instincts, and if you feel like you can smell yourself too strongly, it's probably time to tone it down a notch.

In conclusion, finding the right balance when applying cologne is essential. By being mindful of others' reactions, the environment you're in, and your own instincts, you can ensure that your cologne enhances your presence without becoming overpowering. Remember, with fragrances, less is often more!

Frequently asked questions