Cologne Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Scent

Should you buy cologne? Well, if you want to smell good, then yes. Cologne is a part of a man's signature and can be a part of who they are. While it may be an invisible part of your personal style, it has a powerful effect on how people see and remember you. A good cologne can make you more attractive and boost your confidence. According to science, scent and attraction are intricately linked. In fact, women have a better sense of smell than men and consistently outperform men in smell tests.

However, buying cologne can be a daunting task, with so many different types and scents to choose from. So, how do you choose the right one? Well, it's important to take your time and not rush the process. Understand your fragrance aspiration – think about when and where you'll be wearing the cologne and how you want to come across. It's also a good idea to shop in person so you can test out different scents and see how they mix with your skin. Ask for samples and take them home to try out over a few days.

Remember, you don't need to break the bank to smell nice. While some colognes can be expensive, there are also plenty of affordable options that smell great. So, if you're looking to boost your attractiveness and confidence, then buying cologne could be a great decision.

How to test colognes

Testing colognes is an art, and if you're looking to find the right one for you, there are a few steps you should follow.

Firstly, it's important to understand your "fragrance aspiration". Think about when and where you'll be wearing the cologne, and how you want to come across. Are you looking for a light and clean scent for daytime, or something stronger and more enticing for nighttime? Having a clear idea of what you want will help you communicate with a salesperson.

Next, it's time to go shopping. It's best to shop for cologne in person, and a higher-end department store is a good place to start. You can use paper blotters (the strips of porous paper near fragrance display bottles) to do an initial test of potential colognes. Spray two or three quick sprays in a downward motion into a cloud, and pass the blotter through the cloud. Wave the scented strip under your nose, being careful not to touch it, and inhale.

Once you've narrowed it down to a couple of options, you can try them on your skin. Spray either your wrist or the back of your hand, and let it settle for at least 20-30 seconds. Inhale the scent, again keeping the strip an inch or two away from your nose.

Take your time with this process. The fragrance will deepen and develop over time as it reacts with your body chemistry, so it's a good idea to do something else for 15-30 minutes and then smell the cologne again to see how it has evolved. Testing colognes earlier in the day is also recommended, as our sense of smell is usually sharper in the morning.

Finally, it's important to mind your senses when testing colognes. Avoid wearing other fragrances when testing new ones, and limit yourself to testing no more than three fragrances in one day, as your sense of smell can only handle a few scents well before it becomes confused. You can use olfactory palate cleansers like coffee beans to neutralise odours between tests.

With these steps in mind, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect cologne for you.

How to apply cologne

Applying cologne is an art form. If not done properly, you could end up with either too much cologne or a scent that fades too quickly. Here are some tips on how to apply cologne correctly:

• Apply cologne directly to dry skin immediately after showering. The shower will cleanse your body of any other scents and open your pores, which helps the scent absorb.
• Hold the spray bottle 3-6 inches from your body when applying. Holding the bottle any closer than 3 inches risks over-applying, while spraying further than 6 inches away will likely result in under-applying.
• Apply cologne to the heated areas of your body, such as your 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 to develop your signature scent.
• Start with a light application. Choose one area, such as the neck or forearms, and apply one 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, but it's difficult to remove excess cologne once it's been applied.
• Re-apply cologne if needed. Depending on the type of cologne you buy, you may need to re-apply, especially if you are going out in the evening. When doing so, simply dab a little onto your pulse points.
• Avoid spraying cologne on your clothing. This prevents it from mixing with your natural oils, which gives the cologne its unique quality. It can also prevent the scent from going through its different stages, resulting in a flat and monotone scent. Additionally, spraying cologne directly on clothing can harm some fabrics and cause staining.
• Avoid splashing cologne on your skin. If using a fragrance without 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.
• Avoid spraying a mist cloud and walking through it. While this method may seem like it prevents over-application, it actually renders the cologne almost useless as most of it ends up on the floor.
• Avoid rubbing the cologne into your skin. Rubbing it in breaks the molecular bond in the fragrance, making the scent fade faster. If you're not going to spray, simply dab it on.
• Remember, less is more. Your cologne should be discovered, not announced. It should be a subtle enhancement to your image, not something that overpowers those around you.

Now that you know how to apply cologne, you can enjoy the perks of daily cologne usage and start to notice a boost in confidence, and maybe even the occasional compliment!

How to shop for cologne

Shopping for cologne can be an intimidating task, but it's important to take your time and not rush through it. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process and find the perfect scent for you:

Understand your preferences

Think about the type of scent you want. Are you looking for something light and clean for casual wear, or a stronger, more enticing scent for nighttime use? Consider the occasions when you'll be wearing the cologne and how you want to come across to others.

Shop in person

While buying fragrances online is convenient, it's best to shop in person when looking for a new cologne. Visit a higher-end department store with knowledgeable salespeople who can help you find the right scent based on your preferences and style.

Test different colognes

Use paper blotters to test potential colognes and narrow down your options. Then, select two colognes and spray them on your forearms to get a better sense of how they smell on your skin. Avoid spraying near your palms, as your skin may be contaminated by hand soaps.

Spend time with the colognes

Don't buy a cologne on the spot, even if you think you've found the perfect one. Wait at least an hour to see how the scent mixes with your skin and how long it lasts. You can also ask for sample vials to take home and try over the next week. This will give you a better sense of the cologne's staying power, and you can get feedback from others.

Make your purchase

After testing and considering your options, you're ready to make your purchase. You can look for discounts on untapped testers or second-hand bottles online. However, be cautious when buying fragrances online, as you may end up with a cheap imitation.

Apply the cologne properly

When applying cologne, start with one spray on your chest. As you become more comfortable, you can add a few more sprays in different areas, such as your neck, lower jaw, wrist, forearm, inner elbow, or shoulder. Avoid spraying the crotch area, and remember that less is more—your cologne should be discovered, not announced.

How to store cologne

Storing cologne correctly is essential to prolong its shelf life and prevent it from going bad. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store cologne:

Choose the Right Storage Space:

• Select a dark place away from direct sunlight or artificial light. Sunlight can damage the cologne bottle and its contents.
• Find a storage area with a consistent, cool temperature, avoiding extreme heat or cold.
• Avoid humid areas, as humidity can negatively affect the quality of the cologne.
• The kitchen and bathroom are not suitable due to temperature and humidity fluctuations.
• A bedroom or hallway closet is ideal, or you can even use the refrigerator if it's not too cold.

Select a Suitable Storage Container:

• Keep the cologne in its original bottle if it is attractive and airtight.
• Store the cologne bottles in boxes before placing them in the chosen storage space for added protection from heat and light.
• Ensure that the caps on the bottles are tightly sealed to prevent leakage and minimise oxygen exposure.
• For travel, invest in smaller, travel-friendly containers to reduce the risk of losing your cologne or exposing it to excessive oxygen.

Prevent Damage:

• Always keep the cap on the bottle when not in use.
• Avoid shaking the cologne bottle before use, as this introduces unnecessary oxygen into the bottle.
• Limit the use of applicators, as they can introduce bacteria and oils into the bottle. Instead, opt for spraying the cologne.
• Keep fragile bottles on lower shelves or in lower storage areas to prevent breakage if they are knocked over or dropped.

How to select a cologne for your age

Selecting a cologne that suits your age can be tricky, but it's a great way to express yourself and your personality. Here are some tips on how to choose a cologne that suits your age:

Late Teens to Early 20s

During this stage of your life, you can experiment with different fragrances and find what suits you best. You can opt for sweet and aquatic fragrances or fruity notes such as melon, orange, and cucumber, with a woodsy base like Polo Blue by Ralph Lauren. This is also the time to explore and be a little adventurous with your choices.

Mid-20s

As you approach your mid-20s, it's time to move towards a more mature fragrance. Fresh spicy scents are a good option, such as Dior Sauvage, which has notes of bergamot, ambergris, and driftwood. You can also explore fragrances with a woody or sweet base to give off an impression of having things under control.

Late 20s to Early 30s

By the time you reach your late 20s to early 30s, it's essential to ditch the body sprays and graphic tees. This is the time to find a unique yet fresh scent that stands out but doesn't overwhelm. You can opt for an energizing fragrance like Chanel Allure Homme Sport, which combines a crystalline accord with vetiver and a woody, spicy soul.

Mid-30s to Early 40s

As you transition from youth to true maturity, you can start experimenting with more sophisticated and complicated scent profiles. Try citrusy yet rich fragrances with woody or earthy notes, such as 1872 from Clive Christian. This is the time to be unique and shop for scents that match your established place in the world.

Late 40s and Beyond

In your late 40s and beyond, you have the freedom to be as bold and adventurous with your cologne choices as you wish. You can explore unique blends such as wormwood, rhubarb, juniper berries, cinnamon, and tobacco, as found in Vintage from John Varvatos. Embrace your age and choose scents that reflect your wisdom and experience.

Remember, when choosing a cologne, it's essential to take your time, test different options, and select a fragrance that you truly love and that suits your personality and the impression you want to make.

Frequently asked questions