Cologne At Work: Yay Or Nay?

Wearing cologne at work is a contentious issue. Some people believe that cologne should not be worn in the workplace at all, while others believe that it is acceptable as long as it is applied sparingly and not in an enclosed space. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not to wear cologne at work, but it is important to be mindful of colleagues who may have allergies or sensitivities to fragrance. In some cases, employers may implement a no-fragrance policy to accommodate employees with allergies or sensitivities.

How much cologne is too much cologne?

When it comes to wearing cologne, less is always more. While cologne can be a great way to add to your allure and make a good impression, it's important to remember that too much can be off-putting and even harmful to others. Here are some tips to help you find the right balance:

• Start with a minimal application: Begin with a single spritz of cologne, at least six inches away from your body. This will give you a subtle fragrance that is unlikely to be overwhelming. You can always add another spritz if needed, but it's easier to add more than to remove excess.
• Test and adjust: After applying, take some time to see if you can easily smell the cologne. If it's too strong, try applying from a greater distance or spraying onto a cloth and then dabbing it onto your skin. This will help minimise the scent.
• Get honest feedback: Ask a trusted friend or family member for their opinion. They can tell you if the cologne is too strong or just right. It's also a good idea to pay attention to the reactions of those around you. If people seem to be avoiding getting too close or subtly covering their noses, it might be a sign that your cologne is too intense.
• Be mindful of others: Remember that some people have allergies or sensitivities to fragrances. If you know that someone in your workplace is affected by cologne, it's considerate to avoid wearing it or significantly reduce the amount you use. It's also important to avoid wearing cologne in enclosed spaces, such as elevators or crowded offices, as the scent can build up and become overpowering.
• Apply it to your skin: Cologne is designed to work with the heat of your body to release the fragrance gradually. Spraying it directly onto your skin, rather than your clothes, will ensure that it smells great all day without being too strong.
• Layer with other complementary scents: Using a deodorant, body wash, or lotion with a complementary scent can help enhance the fragrance of your cologne without overwhelming those around you.
• Reapply sparingly: If you need to reapply cologne throughout the day, do so sparingly. One or two sprays should be enough to refresh the scent without going overboard.

Can you wear cologne to work if others do?

Wearing cologne in the workplace is a contentious issue. While some people enjoy wearing cologne and believe it is an essential part of their daily routine, others are highly sensitive to smells and can suffer from allergies, migraines, and asthma attacks when exposed to strong fragrances.

If you are considering wearing cologne to work, it is important to be mindful of your colleagues and the potential impact on their health and comfort. Some people have such severe reactions to certain fragrances that they end up in the emergency room. Even if your coworkers do not explicitly mention their discomfort, it is considerate to avoid wearing strong colognes or perfumes in enclosed spaces like offices.

Additionally, it is worth noting that wearing cologne to work, especially if it is causing issues for your colleagues, could be considered a fireable offense in an at-will employment state. In such states, employers can fire employees for any reason that does not involve discrimination based on age, gender, race, religion, national origin, or disability.

Therefore, if others in your workplace wear cologne, it is advisable to assess the situation carefully before following suit. Observe whether anyone around you has negative reactions to the fragrances, and consider discussing it with your colleagues to gauge their comfort levels. If you do decide to wear cologne, ensure that it is a subtle scent applied sparingly, and avoid wearing it if you know you will be in an enclosed space for a prolonged period.

Ultimately, while wearing cologne can be a form of self-expression and a way to feel more confident, it is crucial to prioritize the health and well-being of yourself and those around you.

What are the best colognes for the workplace?

When it comes to wearing cologne in the workplace, it's important to strike a balance between making a good impression and avoiding overpowering scents that could irritate colleagues. Here are some recommendations for the best colognes to wear in a professional setting:

Byredo De Los Santos

Byredo's De Los Santos is a crisp and unique fragrance that stands out from typical office scents like Dior Sauvage. It has top notes of clary sage and Mirabelle, which settle into a subtle, floral musk. It's ideal for dry weather and will leave a lasting impression without being too overwhelming.

Chanel Bleu de Chanel

Chanel's Bleu de Chanel is a modern classic that exudes "the essence of independence and determination." It features citrusy top notes of grapefruit, lemon, mint, pink pepper, and bergamot, followed by middle notes of ginger, nutmeg, jasmine, and melon. The base notes include incense, amber, cedar, sandalwood, patchouli, labdanum, amberwood, and more, making it a versatile and well-rounded choice.

L'Eau d'Issey pour Homme Eau de Toilette by Issey Miyake

This affordable and long-lasting cologne by Issey Miyake opens with top notes of yuzu and mandarin orange, leading into middle notes of seawater, sage, and cardamom. The base notes of vetiver and amber provide an elegant finish. It's a great choice if you want to make a good impression without breaking the bank.

Creed Green Irish Tweed

Creed's Green Irish Tweed is an undeniably masculine and versatile fragrance. It combines fresh top notes of peppermint and bergamot with floral notes of lavender and Egyptian geranium, and finishes with earthy base notes of sandalwood and oak moss. A single spray can last up to 10 hours, making it a worthwhile investment.

Acqua di Parma Colonia

Acqua di Parma's Colonia is a timeless fragrance that has been a favourite since 1916. It features top notes of bergamot, lavender, and Sicilian orange, followed by florals, patchouli, and a touch of spice from sandalwood. It's a safe and elegant choice, perfect for those working in customer service or wanting to channel their inner Cary Grant.

Montblanc Explorer

Montblanc's Explorer is a woody aromatic fragrance, perfect for the summer season. It has top notes of bergamot, pink pepper, and clary sage, with a touch of leather and sage in the heart. The base notes include ambroxan, akigalawood, and cacao, making it a fresh and long-lasting choice.

Maison Margiela REPLICA By the Fireplace

If you're looking for something a little deeper for after-work drinks, Maison Margiela's REPLICA By the Fireplace is a great choice. This surprising scent features lingering vanilla notes spiced up with clove oil and chestnut accord, balanced by the freshness of floral orange blossoms. It's sure to make you feel warm and irresistible during those colder months.

PERFUMEHEAD Somewhere

PERFUMEHEAD is a luxurious and up-and-coming fragrance brand. Their Los Angeles-inspired collection includes Somewhere, a complex and hard-to-pin-down scent. It intertwines aromas of blood orange and lemon blossom with dewy palm leaves and smoky palo santo, reminiscent of a bonfire at the beach. It's an extrait de parfum, the most concentrated form of fragrance, ensuring a lasting and complex aroma throughout the day.

Arquiste Misfit

Arquiste's Misfit is a smooth and decadent award-winning fragrance. It takes inspiration from 19th-century bohemians and their love for patchouli. This grounding aroma is accentuated by a melting pot of essential oils, including tonka bean and tolu balsam. It's a unique and luxurious choice without the hefty price tag.

Tom Ford Noir De Noir

Tom Ford's fragrances are hard to beat, and Noir De Noir is no exception. This conversation starter features spicy saffron top notes complemented by robust scents of truffle and black rose. The warm and spicy blend of patchouli, oud, and vanilla makes it perfect for the colder months and easy to transition from work to after-work outings.

What are the best ways to apply cologne?

Applying cologne is an art form. Here are some tips to help you apply cologne correctly and avoid being "that guy" who wears too much:

• Apply cologne directly to dry skin immediately after showering. The shower cleanses your body of other scents and opens your pores, helping the cologne absorb.
• Hold the cologne bottle 3-6 inches from your body when spraying. Any closer and you risk over-applying; any further and you'll likely under-apply.
• Apply cologne to heated areas of your body, such as the neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, or inner elbows. The heat helps diffuse the scent throughout the day and allows it to meld with your body chemistry.
• 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 cologne there the next time. You can always add more, but it's harder to remove if you've applied too much.
• Re-apply cologne if needed, especially if you're going out in the evening. Simply dab a little onto your pulse points.
• Avoid common mistakes such as spraying cologne on your clothing, splashing it on your skin, or rubbing it into your skin, as these can prevent the scent from developing properly and may damage certain fabrics.
• When choosing a cologne, consider the concentration and strength. Colognes with higher concentrations of fragrance oils tend to be more expensive, but they also have better sillage (the trail of scent you leave behind) and longevity.
• Test colognes before you buy to see how they react with your body chemistry. You can use scent blotters or order fragrance testers to try at home.
• To make your cologne last longer, store it in a cool, dark place, as light and heat can cause fragrances to deteriorate.
• Be mindful of your skin type, as fragrances tend to cling to oily skin longer than dry skin. Adjust the amount of cologne you apply accordingly.
• Remember that drinking, smoking, and eating certain foods will also alter the smell of your cologne.

What are the consequences of wearing cologne at work?

Wearing cologne at work can have a range of consequences, from positive to negative, and in some cases, even severe. On the positive side, wearing a subtle and well-applied cologne can make you more appealing to your colleagues, leaving a pleasant impression whenever you're around. However, wearing too much cologne or an overpowering scent can lead to negative consequences, especially if your colleagues are sensitive to smells or have allergies.

Some people have severe allergies or medical conditions that are triggered by fragrances, and their reactions can range from migraines and nausea to throat closures and asthma attacks. In such cases, wearing cologne can make your colleagues ill, and they may even have to leave the room or take time off work to recover. This can create an uncomfortable and tense work environment and may lead to resentment or complaints against you.

In extreme cases, wearing cologne at work can even lead to disciplinary action or termination of employment. If your cologne is causing issues for your colleagues, your employer may ask you to stop wearing it. If you continue to do so, it could be considered insubordination, and you may be fired as a result. This could also impact your eligibility for unemployment benefits.

Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of your colleagues' comfort and health when deciding whether or not to wear cologne at work. If you choose to wear cologne, it is best to apply it sparingly and avoid strong or overpowering scents.

Frequently asked questions