Cologne And Skin: Harmful Or Healthy?

Fragrances are commonly used in a multitude of products, from lotions and cleansers to colognes and perfumes. While they can enrich your skincare experience and boost your mood, they can also have adverse effects on your skin. The American Academy of Dermatology has reported fragrances to be the leading cause of allergic reactions on the skin, causing rashes and dermatitis, and potentially triggering migraines and respiratory problems.

Synthetic fragrances, in particular, have been associated with negative health effects. These fragrances are often derived from petrochemicals, which include phthalates—known endocrine disruptors and carcinogens. However, it's important to note that not all fragrances will cause irritation to the same degree, and natural fragrances may be a safer alternative.

The effects of synthetic vs. natural fragrances on the skin

Synthetic and natural fragrances are two types of fragrances that play an important role in perfumery. While synthetic fragrances are created in laboratories using chemicals and natural ingredients, natural fragrances are derived from natural sources such as plants, trees, and flowers.

Synthetic Fragrances

Synthetic fragrances are typically stronger and longer-lasting than natural fragrances due to the use of synthesized molecules. They are also usually cheaper and have a longer shelf life, lasting up to five years or more. However, they may not have the depth of scent found in natural fragrances and can lack natural-smelling qualities. Synthetic fragrances can contain preservatives and other additives, and while they are not inherently harmful, they have been associated with potential allergenic risks and health concerns. The Environmental Working Group ranks "fragrance" as having a high health and hazard risk.

Natural Fragrances

Natural fragrances tend to be more expensive and have a shorter shelf life, typically lasting one to two years. They are generally believed to be safer than synthetic fragrances, but this is not always the case. Some natural ingredients can cause skin allergies and sensitization, and recent studies suggest that key chemicals in plant-derived oils may disrupt hormone functioning. Natural fragrances are typically lighter and may have different health effects compared to synthetic fragrances. They often contain essential oils, which can be soothing and provide antibacterial properties. However, they can still cause allergic reactions due to their plant-based origins.

Effects on Skin

Both synthetic and natural fragrances can have adverse effects on the skin, causing irritation, redness, itchy skin, and sometimes hives. Dry skin is more susceptible to reactions. Fragrances with alcohol can be drying for the skin. It is recommended to test new products on a small portion of the skin before full application. For sensitive skin, it is best to avoid fragrances altogether and opt for fragrance-free products.

How to apply cologne to avoid skin damage

While cologne is not inherently harmful, it can be, depending on the area of application. Here are some tips on how to apply cologne to avoid skin damage:

Avoid rubbing cologne onto the skin

When applying cologne, avoid rubbing it onto your skin. Cologne should sit gently on your skin, rather than be rubbed in. Rubbing cologne onto your skin can cause damage, especially if you do so in the same spot every day. It can also cause the cologne to evaporate more quickly, preventing the scent from developing properly.

Apply cologne to pulse points

Apply cologne to your pulse points, such as your neck, wrists, calves, ankles, midriff, and behind the knees. These areas have natural heat, allowing the scent to develop and spread nicely. Applying cologne to your neck every day can dry out your skin, so it is best to alternate between different pulse points.

Be cautious if you have sensitive skin

If you have sensitive skin, consider applying cologne to your underclothes, near the neck or elbows of your shirt. This will keep the cologne away from your skin while still allowing you to enjoy the fragrance. Alternatively, you can spritz your hairbrush with cologne before brushing your hair. This will leave your hair smelling great without causing any adverse reactions.

Store your cologne properly

Cologne should be stored in a cool, shaded place. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperature changes, as this can cause it to go stale or turn bad.

Do a patch test

If you are concerned about skin sensitivity or allergies, do a patch test before applying cologne to your skin. Choose a small area of skin, such as the inside of your arm or wrist, and apply a small amount of cologne daily for one week. If you experience no reaction, it is likely safe to use the cologne on other areas of your body.

The pros and cons of cologne on clothing

While cologne is meant to be applied to the skin, some people choose to spray it on their clothes. This could be because they want to avoid direct contact with their skin or because they want the scent to last longer. Here are some pros and cons of applying cologne to clothing:

Pros:

• Convenience: Spraying cologne on your clothes can be a convenient way to apply the fragrance, especially if you are in a hurry. You don't have to worry about finding pulse points or ensuring your skin is clean and dry.
• Longevity: Cologne applied to clothing may last longer than on the skin. This is because the fragrance isn't affected by the natural oils and pH of the skin, which can break down the scent over time.
• Protection: Applying cologne to clothing can be a way to protect your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin that is easily irritated by fragrances.

Cons:

• Clash of Scents: Cologne can interact with the fibres of your clothing, altering the scent. This can be especially problematic if you are wearing an item made from natural fibres, such as wool or silk, which are more absorbent.
• Staining: Some colognes contain ingredients that can stain certain types of fabric. This is more likely to occur with cheaper colognes that use lower-quality ingredients.
• Inconsistent Scent: The scent of cologne on clothing may not develop as intended. Cologne is designed to interact with the heat of the body, and when sprayed on clothes, the top, middle, and base notes may not be released properly, resulting in an inconsistent or weaker fragrance.

The best places to apply cologne to avoid skin irritation

While colognes are not inherently harmful, they can be, depending on where you apply them. The best way to avoid skin irritation is to apply cologne to your pulse points, which include the neck, chest, forearms, and inner elbows. These areas are heated, helping to diffuse the scent throughout the day and allowing it to meld with your body chemistry.

• Avoid rubbing cologne onto the skin, as this can cause damage. Instead, let the cologne sit on your skin gently.
• Apply cologne after showering, as this will ensure your skin is clean and your pores are open, helping the scent absorb.
• Hold the cologne bottle 3-6 inches from your body when spraying. Holding the bottle any closer than 3 inches risks over-applying, while spraying from further than 6 inches away will likely result in under-application.
• Start with a light application. Choose one area, such as the neck or forearms, and apply one spray. If the scent fades quickly, choose another area and apply there the next time.
• Reapply cologne if needed, but only dab a small amount onto your pulse points.
• Avoid spraying cologne on your clothing, as this prevents it from mixing with your natural oils and can harm certain fabrics.
• Avoid splashing cologne on your skin, as this can lead to over-application.
• Do not spray a mist cloud and walk through it, as most of the cologne will end up on the floor.
• Do not apply too much cologne, as this can be overpowering.

How to store cologne to avoid skin damage

While cologne is not inherently harmful to the skin, it can be damaging if not stored or applied correctly. Here are some tips on how to store cologne to avoid skin damage:

Avoid the Bathroom

The bathroom is not an ideal place to store cologne due to the fluctuations in temperature and humidity. The heat, humidity, and light from the shower or bath can speed up the breakdown of the fragrance, altering the scent and causing it to spoil more quickly. Therefore, it is best to keep cologne away from the bathroom and store it in a cool, dry, and dark place.

Choose a Dry, Dark Area

The ideal storage condition for cologne is in a dry, dark area, such as a closet or cabinet. Some people even store their cologne in the fridge to prolong its longevity. Keeping cologne out of direct sunlight and heat will help maintain its quality and prevent it from spoiling.

Original Packaging

It is recommended to keep cologne in its original box to protect it from light exposure, which can cause fragrances to deteriorate over time. The box also provides a barrier against temperature changes, helping to maintain a consistent temperature and preserve the molecular integrity of the fragrance.

Small Bottles for Infrequent Use

If you only use cologne occasionally, consider purchasing smaller bottles. This way, you can ensure that you finish the cologne within a reasonable period, reducing the risk of it spoiling due to prolonged storage.

Check the Use-By Date

Cologne has a finite shelf life, and most bottles will have a use-by date marked on them. Be mindful of this date and try to use the cologne within that timeframe to ensure optimal quality and reduce the risk of skin irritation from using expired products.

By following these storage guidelines, you can help maintain the quality of your cologne and prevent potential skin damage from using spoiled or improperly stored fragrances.

Frequently asked questions