Outlet Cologne: Worth It Or Waste Of Money?

Shopping at a cologne outlet can be a great way to save money on fragrances, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, outlets may not offer a full selection of brands and sizes, and you may not be able to sample fragrances before purchasing. It can also be difficult to determine the condition and authenticity of the products, as there is a risk of outlets selling imitation fragrances. On the other hand, outlets can offer genuine value, providing access to authentic, high-end colognes at significant discounts of up to 60% off retail prices. Ultimately, while outlets can be a great place to find discontinued classics and contemporary scents at affordable prices, it's important to do your research and be vigilant when seeking deals on luxury fragrances.

Pros and cons of buying cologne at an outlet

Pros

• Save money: Outlets typically offer significant discounts, with prices slashed by up to 60% compared to regular retail stores.
• Convenience: Outlet malls often house multiple brands in one location, making it convenient to compare prices and hunt for deals without travelling far.
• Authentic fragrances: Despite concerns about counterfeit goods, outlets like Fragrance Outlet do offer a wide range of authentic, high-end colognes from popular brands.
• Discontinued fragrances: Outlets can be a great place to find discontinued fragrances that are no longer available at regular retail stores.

Cons

• Limited selection: Outlets may not carry the full range of brands, sizes, or additional products like perfumes, body sprays, or soaps.
• Quality concerns: While outlets uphold basic brand standards, they may sell separate lines with slight differences in materials or manufacturing processes. Some products may have minor defects or imperfections.
• Difficulty in price comparison: When shopping at a physical outlet, it can be challenging to compare prices with other stores to ensure you're getting the best deal.
• Impulse buying: The lure of slashed prices can lead to impulse purchases of items you don't need.
• Inconvenient location: Outlet malls are often located on the outskirts of cities or in remote areas, requiring a long drive to reach them.
• Inadequate customer service: Outlet stores may have fewer staff members, resulting in longer wait times and less personalised service.
• Condition of products: It can be challenging to determine the condition of products at outlets. Packaging may be damaged, and there is a risk of purchasing outdated or compromised fragrances.

How to test cologne before buying

Testing cologne before buying is an important step in the purchasing process. Here is a guide on how to test cologne effectively:

Testing Fragrances with Blotters

Paper blotters are a simple and common tool for testing colognes. They are small white cards that you spray the fragrance onto to test its scent. Blotters are advantageous as they are clean, usually free to use, and widely available in perfume stores. However, their quality can vary, and if testing multiple fragrances, it is helpful to write their names on the paper to avoid confusion. Thicker, matte paper is recommended as it is more absorbent and provides a richer testing experience.

When using a blotter, spray the fragrance twice in a downward motion in front of you, then swiftly pass the blotter through the vapour cloud before inhaling the scent. Refer back to the card to test its life cycle, as fragrances evolve over time. Avoid spraying directly onto the blotter, as this can distort the notes.

Testing Fragrances on Your Skin

Testing a cologne on your skin is the next logical step after testing with blotters. This step helps you understand how the fragrance interacts with your skin and how it evolves over time. Your skin's natural heat and oils will influence the fragrance, and it may react differently on your skin than on paper.

To test a fragrance on your skin, spray the back of your hand twice, allowing it to dry naturally without rubbing it in. Inhale the fragrance without letting it touch your nose, and refer back to your hand to observe how the scent changes over time. Ensure your hands are thoroughly washed before testing, as dirt and other smells can interfere with the true scent of the cologne. Avoid washing your hands during testing, as soap and water can affect the natural evolution of the fragrance.

Additional Tips for Testing Fragrances

• Avoid wearing fragrances when testing others, as this can impact the results.
• Coffee beans are often provided in perfume stores to neutralise odours between tests. However, they may be less effective with gourmand and oriental fragrances, which contain similar notes to coffee.
• Test fragrances in the morning, as your sense of smell is typically sharper during this time.
• Bring a trusted friend or partner when scent shopping, especially if the cologne is intended to be a seduction tool.
• Go with your instinct and choose fragrances that you are drawn to, rather than being influenced by brands or celebrity endorsements.
• Explore smaller brands that specialise in creating fragrances with natural products.
• Take home samples if possible, as fragrances interact differently with individual skin chemistries.
• If you are a hesitant fragrance wearer, opt for something fresh and simple, such as citrus, fig, or lavender.

Tips for applying cologne

Applying cologne is an art form. When done properly, cologne can be an important part of your personal style and boost your confidence. However, when not applied properly, you run the risk of over-application or a scent that fades too quickly. Here are some tips to help you apply cologne like a pro:

• Timing is key: Apply cologne immediately after showering. The shower washes away other scents and opens your pores, allowing the cologne to absorb better. Make sure your skin is completely dry before spraying.
• Hold the bottle at the right distance: Hold the cologne bottle 3-6 inches away from your body. Holding it any closer risks over-application, while holding it further away may result in under-application.
• Apply to heated areas: Spray cologne on areas of your body that generate heat, such as your neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, and inner elbows. The heat helps diffuse the scent throughout the day and allows it to blend with your body chemistry, creating a signature scent.
• Start with less: It's better to start with a light application and add more if needed. Choose one area, such as the neck or forearms, and begin with one spray. If you notice the scent fades quickly, choose another area and spray there the next time.
• Reapply if needed: Depending on the type of cologne, you may need to reapply, especially if you're going out in the evening. When reapplying, simply dab a small amount onto your pulse points.
• Avoid spraying on clothing: Spraying cologne on your clothes prevents it from mixing with your natural oils, which gives the scent its unique character. It can also harm certain fabrics. Always apply cologne directly to your skin.
• Don't splash or rub: If your cologne doesn't have a spray nozzle, avoid splashing it onto your skin. Instead, place your finger over the opening and gently tip the bottle before dabbing the scent on your body. Rubbing the cologne into your skin can break down the molecular bond, causing the scent to fade faster.
• Be mindful of others: Avoid wearing cologne if you know people around you are sensitive or allergic to fragrances. Additionally, be mindful of how your body's natural odour may interact with the cologne. In certain situations, such as clubbing, the combination of body odour and cologne may be unpleasant.
• Choose different colognes for different occasions: Opt for a lighter, citrus-based scent for daytime or work, and a stronger, spicier scent for evenings or special occasions.

How to make cologne last longer

While it may be tempting to spritz on some cologne as the final touch before leaving the house, the best time to apply it is actually right after a shower. This is when your pores are the most open, allowing the cologne to seep into your skin and giving you a longer-lasting aroma. Moisturising beforehand is also a good idea, as cologne won't absorb as efficiently into dry skin, causing it to evaporate more quickly.

When applying cologne, target your body's pulse points, which are the warmest parts of the body. These include the nape of the neck, inside of the elbows, wrists, and back of the knees. These points react to the natural changes in your body temperature, helping to diffuse your scent across your body. It's also a good idea to apply cologne to the top of your ears and behind your earlobes, as the oilier your skin, the better it will hold fragrance.

It's important to store cologne in a cool, dry place, as heat, humidity, and light can speed up the breakdown of the scent. So, instead of keeping it in the bathroom, opt for somewhere like your nightstand or closet.

To make your cologne last even longer, you can layer it with other fragrant products, such as a matching body wash or lotion. Just be sure to use unscented or complementary products to avoid competing scents.

Finally, while it may be tempting to overapply cologne to make it last longer, this will only front-load the day, and you'll still be scentless by the same time. So, keep it to a spritz or two, and you can always double down later if needed.

How to store cologne to extend its shelf life

To extend the shelf life of your cologne, there are several steps you can take to ensure it stays fresh and fragrant for longer.

Firstly, keep the cologne bottle closed when not in use. Once the cologne is exposed to oxygen, it becomes oxidised, causing the smell to dilute and fade over time. Keep the bottle sealed until you are ready to use it.

Secondly, store your cologne in a dark place, away from direct sunlight and artificial lighting. Light exposure can cause the structures within the cologne to break down, resulting in an unpleasant scent and sour hints.

Thirdly, avoid storing your cologne in a humid environment or areas with fluctuating moisture levels, such as the kitchen or bathroom. Moisture and water can cause chemical reactions that break down the structure of the scent, altering the smell. Humidity can also cause the cologne to evaporate, reducing its longevity.

Additionally, it is recommended to keep your cologne in its original box and bottle. The packaging offers protection against direct light and moisture, helps maintain a consistent temperature, and provides cushioning in case of accidental drops.

You may also want to consider storing your cologne in an airtight container, such as an airtight bag, to further protect it from oxygen and light exposure.

Finally, try to maintain a constant temperature when storing your cologne. Extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations can negatively affect the fragrance. Avoid storing it in the freezer or anywhere too cold, as well as areas with frequent temperature changes.

Frequently asked questions