Colognes: Enhancing Your Presence With Scents

Whether or not to wear cologne is a personal choice that can depend on several factors, including the setting, the type of fragrance, and the amount applied. While some people enjoy wearing cologne as part of their daily routine, others prefer to reserve it for special occasions or social events. The sense of smell is strongly linked to memory and emotion, and a unique, high-quality cologne can help foster emotional connections and leave a lasting impression. However, it's important to use cologne sparingly and avoid applying it directly to clothing, as it can be overpowering and offensive if overused. Additionally, there are certain situations, such as culinary experiences or confined spaces, where it's best to avoid wearing cologne at all. Ultimately, the decision to wear cologne comes down to personal preference and finding a scent that suits your individual style.

How much cologne should you wear?

When it comes to cologne, less is more. Even if your cologne smells fantastic, it's possible to go too strong. Generally speaking, a gentleman's scent should be subtle. Start with a small amount and add more later if needed.

Take a shower, towel off, and then spray your cologne. Start with a single spritz at least six inches away from yourself. That's a minimal application. From there, test it. Can you smell it easily? It might be too much. If you're not sure, ask a friend or family member for their opinion.

If the single spritz was too much, try applying the cologne from a greater distance. To minimise the scent, you can spray a cloth and then dab it on yourself. This isn't ideal and it's rarely necessary, but if you want a faint, subtle fragrance, this method can get you there.

If you need a stronger dose, you can spray a little closer to yourself, or add another spritz. But remember to keep it light. It's okay to not wear enough cologne; it's never okay to wear too much.

The Wall Street Journal recommends sticking to two spritzes: one on the neck and the other in the centre of your shirt. These points are chosen based on where you're likely to perspire. Similarly, Lifehacker recommends applying cologne or perfume to your wrists and rubbing it in, and then applying any excess behind your ears.

You'll know you've gone overboard when you can smell yourself coming from a mile away and/or your friends' eyes water when you enter the room.

When to wear cologne

In general, if you're going to be around other people, it's good to wear cologne. You can wear it to work, on a date, to social gatherings, or even just when you're running errands. It will add to your allure, as people will associate you with the delightful fragrance that gently tickles their sinuses whenever you're around.

However, there are some situations where it's best to avoid wearing cologne. For example, if you know you're going to be in an enclosed space for a long period of time, such as on a commercial flight or a road trip, even a tiny amount of cologne can build up and create problems. This idea also applies to dentist appointments, cramped offices, and similar settings.

Another place to avoid wearing cologne is when fragrance matters a lot, such as at a wine tasting or some other culinary experience. Try your best to not smell like anything at all in these situations, as even a nice cologne fragrance can clash with the culinary delights you're pursuing.

Similarly, if you're going perfume shopping with someone, don't wear your cologne as you don't want to clash with or drown out other fragrances.

Lastly, skip the cologne when you're trying to be a little more muted, such as at a funeral, or when you know you're going to be physically active and likely to sweat a lot.

When is it appropriate to wear cologne?

The sense of smell is the strongest of the five senses and is closely linked to memory and emotion. A unique, high-quality cologne can help you foster deep, lasting connections with those around you. It can also help you attract a romantic partner.

In general, if you’re going to be around other people, it’s good to wear cologne. You can wear it to work, on a date, to a social event, or to a special occasion such as a wedding.

At work, it is best to keep your cologne understated and subtle. You don't want to be the person in the office that everyone avoids because of their intense aroma, so opt for something refined. Citrus and floral scents are ideal for the workplace. Although they tend to diminish quicker than other fragrances, they’re the perfect mix of a delicate sweet smell, without being too feminine.

For social events, whether after work or over the weekend, you can go for a more distinctive scent. Woody colognes mixed with spices are often associated with Italian gentlemen, so this will make you smell like a man who knows how to wear his cologne.

For more special occasions, like a wedding or a date, you will want to look your best, so you should smell your best too. In these situations, you are allowed to be yourself, so you can experiment a bit more with your cologne – just don’t go too strong if it’s a first date! Go for a muskier scent with subtle undertones of citrus or tobacco. This will make you smell like a proper gentleman, but one who can still let their hair down and have fun.

However, there are times when it is not appropriate to wear cologne. Avoid wearing cologne if you know you’re going to be in an enclosed space for a long period of time, such as on a commercial flight or road trip. When you’re enclosed like that, even a tiny amount of cologne can build up and create problems. This idea also applies to dentist appointments and cramped offices.

Another place to avoid wearing cologne is when fragrance matters a lot. If you’re going to a wine tasting or some type of culinary experience, don’t wear cologne. Try your best to not smell like anything at all. Even though a nice cologne fragrance is generally pleasant, it can clash with the culinary delights that you’re pursuing.

Even outside of food and wine, this idea applies. If you’re going perfume shopping with a friend or significant other, still don’t wear your cologne. You want to avoid clashing with or drowning out other fragrances.

The next time to avoid cologne is when you plan to smell bad. If you’re going to the gym, climbing a mountain, fishing, hiking, playing basketball, or doing any other activity that typically comes with some personal odor, leave off the cologne. It’s not entirely appropriate for these activities, and even a great cologne will eventually lose to your own sweat when you start to perspire. Instead, apply the cologne when you’re done and you’ve showered.

Lastly, skip the cologne any time you’re trying to be a little more muted. A funeral is a good example of this. You’re not trying to be the center of attention, so skip the cologne. Less clear examples involve job interviews and first dates. Even though you're trying to make an impression, in those cases, you don’t want the impression to be that you used too much cologne.

Remember, less is more. Even if your cologne smells fantastic, it’s possible to go too strong. Generally speaking, the gentleman's scent is subtle, so start with very, very little cologne. You can always add more later.

The benefits of wearing cologne

Make a Good First Impression

Cologne can be a powerful way to make a great first impression on people. The sense of smell is the strongest of the five senses and is closely linked to memory and emotion. A high-quality cologne can help you appear more sophisticated, successful, and refined. It shows that you care about your grooming and appearance, helping you make powerful first impressions and cement important relationships.

Boost Your Confidence

Cologne can make you feel more hygienic and confident. It can ease stress, anxiety, or depression and boost feelings of relaxation and energy. These effects are well-known in aromatherapy but can also be achieved by wearing a cologne with high-quality, pure essential oils.

Stand Out from the Crowd

Not every guy wears cologne, so having a signature scent will help you stand out. Opt for a high-quality cologne with top, middle, and base notes that will last throughout the day and make a lasting impression.

Foster Emotional Connections

Smell is the most powerful sense, 150,000 times more sensitive than vision. It is linked to memory and emotion because the olfactory bulb is directly connected to the limbic system or the "emotional brain." A unique, high-quality cologne can help you foster deep, lasting connections with those around you and even attract a romantic partner.

Enhance Your Focus

Colognes can have aromatherapy-like effects on the brain. Citrus scents, in particular, can help improve focus, while bergamot can elevate your mood.

How to apply cologne

Applying cologne is an art form. If done incorrectly, you may end up with an overpowering scent or one that fades almost immediately. Here is a guide on how to apply cologne effectively:

Step 1: Shower

Before applying cologne, it is best to take a shower. The shower will cleanse your body of any other scents and open your pores, which will help the scent absorb.

Step 2: Dry Off

Completely dry off your skin after the shower. It is important that your skin is dry before applying cologne.

Step 3: Spray Bottle Distance

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

Step 4: Apply to Heated Areas of the Body

Apply cologne to areas of your body that emit heat, such as your neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, and inner elbows. The heat from these areas will help diffuse the scent throughout the day and allow it to meld with your body chemistry to create your signature scent.

Step 5: Start with a Light Application

When applying cologne, less is more. Choose one area, such as the neck or forearms, and start with a single 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 cologne, but it is difficult to remove if you have applied too much.

Step 6: Re-apply if Needed

Depending on the type of cologne you are using, you may need to re-apply, especially if you are 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, which gives the cologne its unique quality. It can also cause staining or discolouration of certain fabrics.
• Splashing on Skin: If the cologne does not have a spray nozzle, place one finger over the opening of the bottle and gently tip it upside down before dabbing the scent onto your body.
• Spraying a Mist and Walking Through It: This method renders the cologne almost useless as most of it ends up on the floor instead of your body.
• Rubbing into Skin: Rubbing the cologne into your skin can make the scent fade faster as it breaks the molecular bond in the fragrance. It is best to simply dab or spray the cologne onto your skin.
• Applying Too Much: A subtle enhancement is best when it comes to cologne. Start light and ask a friend or family member for their opinion if needed.

By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can effectively apply cologne and make it a pleasant part of your daily routine.

Types of cologne

There are six primary types of cologne, categorised by their fragrance concentrations and optimal uses. These are: Parfum, Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Cologne, Eau Fraiche, and Perfume Oil.

Parfum

Parfum has the highest fragrance concentration of all types of cologne, with 25-30% fragrance concentration. It is the most expensive type of cologne but will last the longest, with a scent that can be detected 10-12+ hours later.

Eau de Parfum (EDP)

Eau de Parfums have a fragrance concentration of 15-20%. They are a good balance of potency and longevity with wearability and price. They are suitable for winter wear as they have a greater projection and are more long-lasting than their lighter counterparts.

Eau de Toilette (EDT)

Eau de Toilettes are a popular choice, with a fragrance concentration of 5-15%. They are a more budget-friendly option and are particularly suitable for summer wear as the increased heat intensifies the cologne's notes. EDTs are also popular with women due to their light and fresh finish.

Eau de Cologne (EDC)

Eau de Colognes have a fragrance concentration of 2-4% and will only last a couple of hours. They are a good option if you want to smell clean without an overpowering fragrance. EDCs are kind to sensitive or dry skin and are suitable for daytime dates.

Eau Fraiche

Eau Fraiche colognes are aromatic, green, and citrusy, with a fragrance concentration of 2-3%. They are ideal for men who want to wear cologne to the gym without overpowering the room.

Perfume Oils

Perfume oils are a less intense and more wearable type of cologne. They are alcohol-free, making them suitable for those with sensitive or dry skin. They have a fragrance concentration of around 20% and are more affordable than other types of cologne.

Frequently asked questions