The Ultimate Guide To Wearing Cologne 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. Here are some tips on how to apply cologne correctly and avoid common mistakes.

Firstly, it is important to apply cologne to clean, dry skin immediately after showering. This ensures that your skin is free of other scents and that your pores are open, allowing the scent to absorb better. Hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from your body and target pulse points such as the neck, wrists, and inner elbows, as these areas are warmer and help diffuse the scent throughout the day.

When applying cologne, less is more. Start with a light application and choose one area to spray, such as the neck or forearms. You can always add another spray if needed. Avoid rubbing the cologne into your skin, as this can break down the fragrance and cause it to fade faster.

Additionally, it is recommended to avoid spraying cologne directly onto your clothing, as this can prevent it from mixing with your natural oils and developing your signature scent. Instead, apply it directly to your skin, allowing it to combine with your natural aroma and work its magic.

Apply cologne to pulse points, like the neck, wrists, and inner elbows

Pulse points are the warmest areas of your body, where blood flows close to the skin. These include the neck, wrists, and inner elbows. Applying cologne to these areas allows the scent to diffuse throughout the day and develop your signature scent as it mixes with your body chemistry.

When applying cologne to your pulse points, hold the bottle 3 to 6 inches away from your body. This ensures that you don't over-apply or under-apply. Spray one or two spritzes on your neck, and one on each wrist. You can then gently press your wrists together and dab your wrists on your neck to spread the cologne.

If you're worried about over-applying, start with one spray on your neck or wrists, and add more the next time you apply if you notice that the scent fades quickly. You can also ask a friend or family member for their opinion on whether the application is appropriate.

Remember, cologne should be a subtle enhancement to your image. It should be discovered, not announced.

Hold the bottle 3-6 inches from the skin when spraying

Holding the cologne bottle the correct distance from your body when spraying is crucial to ensure you don't over-apply or under-apply the fragrance. The general consensus is that you should hold the bottle around 3-6 inches from your body when spraying. Holding the bottle any closer than 3 inches risks over-application, while spraying from further than 6 inches away will likely result in under-application. This distance allows you to focus the scent on a specific target – the pulse point – without over or under-concentrating it.

Pulse points are areas of the body that allow for the most even distribution of scent, as the skin there is warmer. For men, these points include the neck, armpits, knees, wrists, and behind the ears. You don't need to spray the fragrance on all your pulse points, as this would be overkill. Instead, pick just a few, such as the neck and wrists, and start with one spray on each. If you feel that's not enough, you can always add another spray next time.

Start with a light application, then add more if needed

When applying cologne, it's important to remember that less is more. You don't want to be the guy who everyone can smell from a mile away. Start with a light application, and if you feel like you need more, slowly add another spray or two.

• Apply to clean, dry skin, preferably after a shower.
• Target pulse points, such as the wrists, neck, and inner elbows. These areas are warmer and will help the scent diffuse throughout the day.
• Hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from your body when spraying.
• Reapply throughout the day as needed, especially if you are going out in the evening.

Remember, your cologne should be discovered, not announced. It should be a subtle enhancement to your image, not an overpowering scent that imposes on those around you. Ask a friend or family member for their opinion if you're unsure about the application.

Re-apply throughout the day if required

Depending on the type of cologne you use, you may need to re-apply during the day, especially if you are going out in the evening. When doing so, simply dab a little onto your pulse points.

Tips for re-application

• Don't rub your wrists together after re-applying. This creates heat and friction and breaks down the fragrance.
• Be mindful that your nose will get used to the scent, losing recognition of it after wearing it for a bit. This is called "anosmia" or "nose blindness".
• If your scent has proven to be extremely light (citrus-forward scents are notorious for this), a discreet re-application may be in order. A friend or partner could help you identify if a scent tends to stick around or make a quick exit.
• Keep a refillable cologne bottle in your glove box or briefcase so you can freshen up after the initial spray has faded.

Store cologne in a cool, dark place to make it last longer

When it comes to storing cologne, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure that it lasts longer. One of the most important is to keep it in a cool, dark place. Cologne is delicate and can easily break down due to excess heat or light, causing the scent to change or disappear. Storing it in a dark, cool place will help protect it from these elements and maintain its original fragrance.

The ideal storage spot for cologne is somewhere that is dark, cool, and dry. Heat and light can break down the chemical bonds that give cologne its scent, so it's best to keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as radiators or heat vents. A consistent temperature is also important, as fluctuations can affect the fragrance. While storing cologne in the refrigerator is an option, it is not ideal as the constant temperature changes from removing it to use it and then replacing it can be detrimental. A cool, dark cabinet or closet is a better choice.

In addition to keeping it in a cool, dark place, there are a few other things to keep in mind to make your cologne last longer. It's important to keep the bottle sealed when not in use, as oxygen can cause the scent to dilute and become oxidized. Storing cologne in its original box can also help prolong its lifespan, as the boxes are designed to protect the fragrance from light and oxygen exposure. Additionally, avoid exposing the cologne to excessive humidity, as this can cause unwanted chemical reactions.

By following these storage tips, you can help ensure that your cologne lasts longer and maintains its original scent.

Frequently asked questions