How Often Should You Refresh Your Cologne?

Knowing how and when to freshen your cologne is an art form. Too much cologne can be overpowering, while too little may not last throughout the day. The key is to apply sparingly and strategically, so the scent lasts and develops throughout the day.

Applying cologne to pulse points such as the wrists, neck, and inner elbows is ideal, as these areas are naturally warm, helping the fragrance to diffuse. It is also important to hold the bottle 3–6 inches from the body to avoid over-application.

While it is generally recommended to apply cologne to the skin, some sources suggest that a small spray on the collar of a shirt can be effective, although this may damage certain fabrics. Reapplying cologne to the wrists throughout the day can also help to freshen the scent.

Pulse points

When applying cologne, hold the bottle 3 to 6 inches away from the pulse point. This distance allows you to focus the scent on a specific target without over or under-concentrating it. Start with one spritz on your wrists and rub them on your neck. If you feel like that's not enough, consider adding a second spritz.

You can also apply cologne to your neck and chest, as these are also warm areas that will help diffuse the scent. However, avoid spraying on areas with too much friction, such as the crotch, armpits, and knees, as this can cause the scent to degrade.

Some people prefer to spray cologne on their stomach, chest, or top of the forearm instead of the wrists or neck. This allows them to smell their perfume all day with just 1-2 sprays. It is important to note that spraying on the chest may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin, as the skin in that area is thin and prone to irritation.

Overall, targeting pulse points when applying cologne is a great way to enhance the projection, cast, and sillage of your fragrance, helping it to perform to its fullest potential.

How much to apply

The amount of cologne you should apply depends on the strength of the fragrance, the occasion, and personal preference. As a general rule, it is best to start with a light application and build up if needed. This will help you avoid over-application, which can be off-putting for those around you.

• Start with one or two sprays: One area with one spray is usually enough, but if you notice that the scent fades quickly, choose another area and apply there the next time. You can always add more as the day goes on, so it's better to start with less and build up.
• Apply to pulse points: Target the "warmest" points on your body, such as your wrists, neck, chest, inner elbows, and forearms. These areas generate heat, helping the scent to diffuse throughout the day and allowing it to meld with your body chemistry to create your signature scent.
• Hold the bottle 3-6 inches away: Holding the bottle any closer than 3 inches risks over-application, and spraying further than 6 inches away will likely result in under-application.
• Reapply sparingly: Depending on the type of cologne, you may need to reapply during the day, especially if you are going out in the evening. When reapplying, dab a little onto your pulse points, rather than spraying.
• Consider your skin type: Fragrances tend to cling to oily skin for longer, while drier skin can soak up the scent more quickly. Adjust the amount of cologne you apply accordingly.
• Be mindful of your surroundings: Drinking, smoking, and eating certain foods can alter the smell of your cologne. For example, wearing too much cologne in a restaurant serving strong-smelling food, like Indian cuisine, can create an interesting mix of scents.
• Get a second opinion: It can be difficult to judge how you smell yourself. Ask a friend or partner if your cologne is too strong or too faint.

Remember, when it comes to cologne, less is often more, and you can always add more if needed. Start with a light application and adjust as necessary to find the right balance for you and those around you.

Where to store cologne

Storing cologne correctly is essential to prolonging its shelf life and maintaining its quality. Here are some detailed tips on where to store cologne:

• Keep it in a dark place: Avoid direct sunlight or constant exposure to indoor light, as light can break down the delicate chemical makeup of the fragrance and even melt plastic bottles.
• Store it in a dry place: Water damage and humidity can destroy a fragrance. Avoid storing cologne in humid environments, and never store it in the bathroom due to temperature fluctuations and humidity.
• Maintain a constant temperature: Aim for a cool, consistent temperature of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme temperatures can affect the quality of the cologne.
• Store it in its original box: The cardboard box can help protect the bottle and shield it from light.
• Keep it on a low shelf: Storing cologne on a high shelf increases the risk of breakage, which can ruin the scent.
• Keep the bottle sealed: Oxygen is perfume's worst enemy. Always keep the bottle capped when not in use to prevent evaporation and maintain the balance of the fragrance.
• Store it in its original bottle: Decorative bottles may be tempting, but the original bottles are designed to be airtight and have specific spray heads to disperse the right amount of scent and prevent air contamination.
• Use smaller bottles for travel: Transferring cologne to a smaller bottle for travel will reduce air exposure and help maintain its quality.
• Store it in an airtight container: For extra protection, place the original bottle inside an airtight, opaque container.

Skin type

When choosing a cologne, it's important to consider your skin type, as this can affect how the fragrance smells and how long it lasts. There are three main skin types: dry, combination, and oily.

Oily Skin

Oily skin can be caused by various factors, such as diet, and indicates that your body is more active. When choosing a cologne for oily skin, be aware that the oils in your skin may mix with the cologne to create an unpleasant odour or a stronger scent. To avoid this, it's best to opt for summer fragrances and use less cologne—one spray may be enough. Some recommended colognes for oily skin include Diptyque Philosykos Eau de Toilette, Kenzo Pour Homme, and Versace Versace Man Eau Fraiche.

Dry Skin

Dry skin can be caused by cold climates, harsh weather conditions, or using strong soap. If you have dry skin, the scent of cologne will diminish quickly, so you may need to reapply it often. Applying too much cologne can further dry out your skin due to its high alcohol content. To counteract this, opt for men’s Eau de Parfum grade fragrances, which have less alcohol and are more potent. Colognes designed for winter, such as Burberry London, are also a good choice for dry skin.

Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, some colognes may cause rashes, acne breakouts, or red blotches. To avoid these issues, look for colognes that are all-natural and steer clear of body creams or lotions that contain synthetic ingredients. Taylor of Old Bond Street offers a cologne designed for men with sensitive skin that is reasonably priced and well-reviewed.

General Tips for Applying Cologne

Regardless of your skin type, there are a few general tips to keep in mind when applying cologne:

• Apply cologne to pulse points or the warmest areas of your body, such as the neck, chest, wrists, and inner elbows.
• Hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from your skin when spraying.
• Avoid rubbing the cologne into your skin after application, as this can cause the scent to dissipate faster.
• Reapply to your wrists when the fragrance wears off.
• Store your cologne in a cool, dark, and dry place to prevent it from breaking down faster.

When to apply

The best time to apply cologne is right after you shower, as your pores are at their most open, allowing the cologne to seep into your skin and giving you a longer-lasting aroma. You should also moisturise before applying cologne, as this will help the fragrance absorb.

Apply cologne to your pulse points, which are the warmest points on your body. These include your wrists, neck, inner elbows, chest, and the back of your neck. You can also apply cologne behind your knees, especially if you're going out to a noisy social scene.

Hold the cologne bottle 3 to 6 inches away from your body when applying. Start with one or two sprays and build up if necessary, as you don't want to over-apply.

If you're going out in the evening, you may need to reapply your cologne. Simply dab a little onto your pulse points.

Frequently asked questions