Cologne And Shaving: Enhancing The Freshly Shaven Experience

The use of cologne and aftershave has been a topic of debate in the grooming world, with many questioning whether these products do more harm than good. Traditionally, aftershave was a fragrant alcohol rub that men would pat onto their cheeks and neck after shaving, with the purpose of disinfecting any cuts and speeding up the healing process. However, the alcohol in aftershave can be a major irritant, drying out the skin and causing redness, bumps, and stinging. Cologne, on the other hand, is a weaker concentration of scent, similar to an eau de toilette, and is typically applied to the neck, chest, and wrists. While cologne may be a better alternative to alcohol-based aftershaves, it is important to consider the potential irritation caused by heavy fragrances on freshly shaved skin.

Cologne vs aftershave: which is better?

An aftershave is a product designed to be used after shaving. It offers skin benefits, helping to calm and soothe the skin. This type of post-shave product is typically scented but not very strongly. If it contains a fragrance, about 1-2% perfume oil is standard. While you may think of aftershave as a liquid spray, authentic aftershaves are usually balms or lotions.

A cologne, or eau de cologne, is a product designed specifically to make you smell good, meaning it doesn't offer shaving-related benefits. It is one of the most popular fragrance options for men, offering a stronger scent than an aftershave, with a fragrance concentration of 2-4%.

While the two products are not the same, you can use an aftershave in place of a cologne. If you want a subtle fragrance, wear your aftershave without any cologne or other fragranced products. However, the opposite doesn't work. Don't replace your aftershave with cologne, as it won't be formulated to address the irritation that comes from shaving.

It depends on what you are looking for. If you want a product to soothe and nourish your skin after shaving, then an aftershave is the better option. If you are looking for a stronger fragrance to last throughout the day, then a cologne is the better choice.

Other Options

There are other fragrance options available, such as eau de toilette and eau de parfum. Eau de toilette has a higher concentration of fragrance than cologne, ranging from 5-15%, and can last up to 8 hours. Eau de parfum has a very high concentration of fragrance, ranging from 15-30%, and provides the strongest and longest-lasting scent.

The best way to apply cologne after shaving

Applying cologne after shaving is a great way to add a pleasant fragrance to your skin and can even help speed up the healing process of any minor cuts. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your cologne application:

Choose the Right Cologne

Not all colognes are created equal. Some colognes are more complex, chemically, than aftershaves and may burn or irritate your skin when applied to freshly shaved skin. Look for colognes with simpler formulas that are intended for use as aftershaves, or be prepared to dilute your cologne with additives.

Prepare Your Skin

Before applying cologne, it's important to properly prepare your skin. Follow your usual shaving routine, then rinse the shaved area with cold water to remove any remaining shaving products. Use a clean towel to gently pat your skin dry, rather than rubbing, to avoid irritation.

Dilute Your Cologne

To avoid irritation, it's recommended to dilute your cologne with additives such as witch hazel and/or glycerin. This will help reduce the risk of burning or irritation that can occur with some colognes.

Apply the Cologne

Pour a small amount of your diluted cologne into the palm of your hand—about the size of a dime. Rub your palms together to spread the cologne evenly, then apply it to the shaved area. You can also apply cologne to your neck and wrists, as these pulse points will help the fragrance last longer.

Consider Alternative Options

If you're looking for a more natural option, you can skip the cologne altogether and opt for a natural oil like coconut or jojoba. These oils can help protect and moisturize your skin while also providing antibacterial benefits.

Differences between cologne, aftershave, eau de toilette and eau de parfum

The main difference between cologne, aftershave, eau de toilette, and eau de parfum is the level of essential oils (or aromatic compounds) used in the fragrance, which can range from 1% up to 40%. This level of essential oil will alter the scent's longevity, price, and overall performance.

Aftershave

Aftershave is meant to be used to treat your skin after shaving. It is the weakest of all the types of scent, usually containing only 1-3% perfume oil, with the rest consisting of soothing ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, coconut oil, or shea butter to help heal the skin. It will only last for about 2-3 hours, so it's not ideal if you want your fragrance to last all day.

Cologne

Cologne is intended to be used on its own as an everyday fragrance and is generally lower in strength, with around 2-5% aromatic compounds in its formula. Despite its low concentration levels, it will still linger on the skin, although only for a short time. It's a great addition to your daily routine, but you may need to reapply throughout the day.

Eau de Toilette

Contrary to popular belief, Eau de Toilette is actually stronger than both cologne and aftershave, containing 4-8% perfume oil. It should be applied to your pulse points, such as your neck, wrists, or chest, and will last for around 6-8 hours.

Eau de Parfum

Eau de Parfum is less common in men's fragrances and is even stronger than Eau de Toilette, containing 8-15% perfume oil. It will last all day and sometimes even into the next morning. However, it tends to be more expensive.

How to choose the right cologne for your skin type

The right cologne for you will depend on your skin type and lifestyle. There are three skin types: dry, combination, and oily. When choosing a cologne, it's important to consider the characteristics of your skin. However, other factors will also influence how a cologne smells on you.

Skin Moisture

The more moisturized your skin is, the longer a fragrance will last. To maintain good skin hydration, it is recommended to drink at least one litre of water per day.

Skin pH

The more supple your skin is, the better the fragrance will hold. A concentration of 20% or more is more suitable for people with acidic skin types (eau de parfum or perfume extracts).

Lifestyle

An active person will find that their perfume lasts longer than someone with a sedentary lifestyle.

Olfactory Heritage

A fragrance that is composed of scents that evoke pleasant memories will be a perfect match. It will be in harmony with the positive olfactory heritage of the wearer.

Diet

What we eat affects the smell of our skin. For example, eating large amounts of meat or onions will change the smell of your skin, and the perfume applied will be perceived differently.

Skin Temperature

Although the human body temperature is usually stable, fluctuations in body temperature can influence the fragrance.

Medication

Some medications can alter the scent of the skin, and therefore the perfume applied to it.

Climate

Depending on the climate, you may find it harder to smell your fragrance. For example, it can be challenging to smell your perfume in an air-conditioned atmosphere.

Seasons

A fragrance will not smell the same in summer or winter, and it will react differently on the skin depending on the time of year.

Hormonal Cycle

The sense of smell fluctuates according to the hormonal cycle. During a monthly cycle, a fragrance will be more or less perceived on the skin. Hormonal changes during adolescence, after pregnancy, or at menopause can also alter our tastes and preferences for fragrances.

Age

Older skin tends to dehydrate more quickly, so the fragrance will not last as long.

Application Tips

To make the most of your cologne, apply it directly to your skin after showering and drying off. Hold the bottle 3-6 inches from your body and spray it on heated areas of your body, such as your neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, or inner elbows. Start with a light application and reapply if needed. Avoid spraying the fragrance on your clothing, as this can prevent it from mixing with your natural oils and developing your signature scent.

How long does cologne last after shaving?

The longevity of cologne after shaving depends on several factors, including the type of cologne, the area of application, and individual skin characteristics. Here are some insights into how long cologne typically lasts after shaving:

Factors Affecting Cologne Longevity

• Type of Cologne: The concentration of fragrance oils and alcohol in a cologne determines its classification as an Eau de Cologne, Eau de Toilette, or Eau de Parfum. These different types of colognes have varying intensities and lasting power. Eau de Colognes typically have lower concentrations of fragrance oils, resulting in a more subtle and fleeting scent. In contrast, Eau de Parfums have higher concentrations, offering a stronger and more long-lasting fragrance.
• Area of Application: Applying cologne to specific areas can maximize its longevity. Traditional pulse points like the wrists, neck, and behind the ears are common choices. However, some people find that cologne doesn't last long on their wrists. Alternative areas such as the chest, back of the neck, and forearms can be considered for extended fragrance projection.
• Skin Type: Individual skin characteristics, such as dryness or oiliness, can influence how long cologne lasts. For example, individuals with dry skin may find that alcohol-based colognes cause further dryness and flaking, reducing the longevity of the fragrance. On the other hand, applying cologne to well-moisturized skin or using a moisturizing shaving cream before shaving can help extend the wear time of the cologne.

Tips for Maximizing Cologne Longevity

• Wait Before Application: It is recommended to wait a while for the skin to recover from the irritation caused by shaving before applying cologne. This can help reduce the burning sensation some people experience when applying cologne immediately after shaving.
• Use of Neutral-Scented Aftershave: Using a neutral-scented aftershave before applying cologne can help extend the wear time of the fragrance. This ensures that the cologne scent isn't overwhelmed by a strongly scented aftershave.
• Moisturizing: Properly moisturizing the skin before applying cologne can create a hydrating base that helps the fragrance last longer. This is especially beneficial for individuals with dry skin.
• Dilution: Some people choose to dilute their cologne, especially if it has a high concentration of alcohol and fragrance, to make it more suitable for use on sensitive skin and to prevent irritation.

Frequently asked questions