Cologne For Men: A Must-Have Or A Miss?

Should guys get cologne? Well, cologne is a great way to make a good first impression. It can make you appear more successful, polished, refined, and put-together. It can also make you feel more hygienic and help with your health by easing stress, anxiety, or depression and boosting feelings of relaxation, confidence, or energy. A unique, high-quality cologne can also help you attract a romantic partner. However, it's important to know how to apply cologne correctly and avoid common mistakes such as over-application or spraying it on your clothes. So, should guys get cologne? The answer is yes, but only if they know how to use it properly!

Choosing a scent

Understand the Different Types of Fragrances

Before choosing a cologne, it's important to understand the different types of fragrances available. The main categories include Eau Fraiche, Eau de Cologne, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, and Parfum. These categories denote the concentration of perfume oils in the fragrance, which affects its strength and longevity. Eau Fraiche, for example, has a low concentration of oils (1-3%) and lasts less than an hour, while Parfum has a high concentration (20-30%) and can last up to 24 hours.

Consider the Fragrance Notes

Fragrances are typically composed of three types of notes: top notes, medium notes, and base notes. Top notes are the initial, lighter scents that you smell immediately after application and last up to 2 hours. Medium or heart notes develop after the top notes and can last 3-5 hours. Base notes are the boldest scents that become more noticeable later in the day and can last up to 10 hours. When choosing a cologne, consider the combination of these notes and how the fragrance will evolve over time.

Sample Different Colognes

The best way to find the right cologne is to sample different options and see how they react with your body chemistry. Department stores are great for this, as they offer a wide variety of colognes to test. Spray one scent on each wrist or inner elbow (no more than four scents at once) and walk around the store to smell the fragrances at various intervals. Take notes on which scents you like and why. You can also order fragrance testers or scent blotters online to try out colognes at home.

Consider Your Natural Body Odor

When choosing a cologne, look for a fragrance that complements your natural body odor rather than overpowering it. Scientific studies suggest that men can naturally select the cologne that works best with their body scent. Trust your instincts and use the opinions of others to reinforce or question your decision.

Choose a High-Quality Cologne

Invest in a high-quality cologne made with pure essential oils. Cheap colognes may lack the mid and base notes found in higher-quality fragrances, so they won't make a lasting impression. A quality cologne will have top, middle, and base notes, ensuring that you stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression.

How much to apply

The amount of cologne you apply depends on the strength of the fragrance, the occasion, and personal preference. However, the general rule is to start with a small amount and then add more if needed. This is because cologne should be subtle and discovered, not announced.

• Start with one or two sprays: For a lighter fragrance, such as a citrus or floral cologne, one or two sprays should be enough. You can always add another spray or two if you feel it is necessary.
• Apply to pulse points: Spray cologne on your wrists, neck, and chest. These areas generate heat and will help diffuse the fragrance throughout the day.
• Avoid over-application: Hold the bottle 3 to 6 inches away from your body when spraying. Applying cologne too close to the skin can lead to over-application, while spraying from too far away may result in under-application.
• Test and adjust: Ask a trusted friend or family member for their opinion on whether the amount you are applying is appropriate. You can also pay attention to how long the scent lasts and reapply if needed, especially if you are going out in the evening.
• Reapply sparingly: If you need to reapply cologne during the day, simply dab a small amount onto your pulse points.
• Layer with other scented products: Consider using other scented products such as soap, body wash, lotion, and deodorant to complement your cologne and make it last longer.
• Store properly: Cologne does not have an infinite shelf life, and fluctuations in temperature and direct sunlight can shorten its lifespan. Store it in its original box or in a cool, dark, and dry place to make it last longer.

Where to apply it

Where to Apply Cologne

Now that you've picked out a cologne, it's time to apply it. But where exactly should you spray?

Firstly, always apply cologne directly to your skin, not your clothes. Spraying cologne on your clothes can prevent it from mixing with your natural oils, which gives cologne its unique quality. It can also cause the scent to fall flat and appear monochrome, rather than going through its various scent stages. Plus, spraying cologne on your clothes can be harmful to some fabrics and cause staining.

When applying cologne, you should aim for areas of your body that emit heat, such as your wrists, neck, and chest. These pulse points generate heat, helping to diffuse the fragrance throughout the day. The heat also allows the cologne to meld with your body chemistry, creating your signature scent.

When applying cologne, hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from your body. 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.

Remember, less is more. It's better to start with a light application and add more if needed than to over-apply.

When to wear it

When to wear cologne

Cologne is a great way to make a good first impression. It is an invisible part of your personal style and can have a powerful effect on how people see and remember you. It can make you appear more successful, sophisticated, and hygienic. It can also help you feel more confident and less stressed.

You can wear cologne as a default part of your daily routine. It is generally appropriate to wear cologne whenever you are going to be around other people, such as at work, on a date, or even at your book club.

However, there are some situations where it is best to avoid wearing cologne. These include:

• When you will be in an enclosed space for a long period, such as on a commercial flight or road trip.
• When fragrance is particularly important, such as at a wine tasting or culinary experience.
• When you plan to be physically active, such as at the gym or playing basketball.
• When you want to be more muted, such as at a funeral or job interview.

Additionally, while cologne can be a great way to boost your confidence, it is important to remember that less is more. Start with a light application and ask for honest feedback from a close friend or family member if you are unsure.

How to store it

Storing cologne correctly is essential to prolonging its shelf life. Here are some tips on how to store it:

• Keep it in a dark place: Sunlight can damage cologne, so it's best to store it in a dark place like a closet or drawer.
• Maintain a consistent temperature: Extreme temperatures can affect the quality of cologne, so it's best to store it in an area with consistent temperature, avoiding kitchens and bathrooms.
• Avoid humid areas: Humidity can negatively impact cologne, so it's best to store it in a dry place. Using a dehumidifier can help.
• Store it in its original box: The original box can provide extra protection from light and temperature changes.
• Keep the bottle sealed: Ensure the cap is firmly sealed when not in use to minimise oxygen exposure.
• Avoid shaking the bottle: Shaking can introduce excess air, which can be harmful.
• Use travel containers: When travelling, use travel-sized bottles or transfer the cologne to an empty container to reduce the risk of losing the entire bottle.
• Store it in the fridge: The fridge maintains a stable temperature and keeps the cologne away from light and heat. However, avoid very cold fridges as extreme cold can damage cologne.

Frequently asked questions