Deodorant And Cologne: A Fragrance Match?

There are differing opinions on whether you should wear deodorant and cologne at the same time. Some people believe that it is perfectly fine to wear both at the same time, while others argue that wearing both can result in an unpleasant mix of scents. It is generally recommended to use an unscented or lightly-scented deodorant to avoid clashing with your cologne. Additionally, it is important to apply cologne to the skin rather than clothing, as the body's heat helps to release the fragrance.

Using unscented deodorant and cologne

Using an unscented deodorant and cologne is a great option for many people. Here are some reasons why you might choose to do so:

Avoid Clashing Scents

Firstly, it is generally recommended to avoid wearing multiple scented products at the same time. This is because different scents can clash, creating an unpleasant smell. By using an unscented deodorant, you can avoid this issue and ensure that your cologne is the only noticeable fragrance. This allows you to fully enjoy the scent of your cologne without any interference.

Allergies and Sensitivities

Some people are scent-sensitive, meaning they may experience physical symptoms such as headaches when wearing fragranced products. Additionally, others may have allergic reactions to fragrance ingredients, with scented deodorants being a common trigger. Using an unscented deodorant can help prevent these issues while still providing odour protection.

Enhance Other Fragrances

If you use fragranced products like cologne, body lotion, or perfume, an unscented deodorant can help these other scents stand out. This is especially useful if you invest in high-quality cologne or perfume and want to ensure it isn't overpowered by other fragrances.

Outdoor Activities

When spending time outdoors, especially in nature, it is advisable to avoid scented products. This is because pests, such as mosquitoes, are attracted to scents. Even larger animals, like bears, may be drawn to your campsite if they detect scented deodorant. Using an unscented deodorant can help reduce this risk and make your outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Personal Preference

Some people simply prefer to go scent-free with their personal care products. They may find the natural odour of their body more appealing or want to avoid any potential fragrance-related issues. Unscented deodorant provides the option to maintain odour protection without adding any artificial fragrances.

Applying cologne to the skin, not clothes

Applying cologne to the skin is the best way to ensure the scent lasts a long time and mixes with your body chemistry to create a unique fragrance.

Firstly, it's important to apply cologne to clean, dry skin, preferably immediately after showering. The shower will cleanse your body of any other scents and open your pores, helping the scent absorb.

Hold the bottle 3-6 inches from your body and apply to the wrists, neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, or inner elbows. These areas generate heat, which helps diffuse the scent throughout the day.

Applying cologne to the skin also helps to prevent staining or damaging your clothes. Some colognes can stain certain fabrics, and the scent may not last as long on clothes as it does on the skin.

Additionally, applying cologne to the skin allows it to mix with your natural oils and body chemistry, creating a unique scent. Spraying cologne directly on your clothes prevents this process, resulting in a flat, monochrome scent.

Finally, applying cologne to the skin can help to prevent over-application. The recommended number of sprays varies depending on the strength of the fragrance and the occasion, but it is generally advised to start with one or two sprays and build up if needed.

In summary, applying cologne to the skin is the best way to ensure the scent lasts, mixes with your body chemistry, and doesn't damage your clothes.

Avoiding cologne overload

Wearing deodorant and cologne together is common practice, but it's important to avoid overdoing it. Here are some tips to avoid cologne overload:

Choose the right deodorant

Select an unscented or neutral-scented deodorant or antiperspirant to avoid mixing multiple fragrances. Look for products specifically labelled as unscented, as some "unscented" options may still have a noticeable scent. Using a deodorant that matches your cologne is another option to ensure harmony between the two scents.

Apply cologne correctly

Apply cologne to your pulse points, such as your wrists and neck, where you can feel your heartbeat. This helps carry the scent and mixes it with your natural pheromones to create a unique fragrance. Hold the cologne bottle about 6 inches away from your skin when applying to avoid over-concentrating it in one area. Start with one spritz on your wrists, and then rub them on your neck. Adjust the amount as needed, but remember that less is often more when it comes to cologne.

Understand cologne concentrations

Different colognes have varying concentrations, which affect their strength and longevity. Understanding these concentrations will help you gauge how much to apply. Eau de Cologne, typically labelled simply as "cologne," has a concentration of 3-5%, while Eau de Toilette has a concentration of 5-8% and is considered the "standard" option. Eau de Parfum is stronger, with a concentration of 8-15%, and Parfum or Extrait de Parfum is the strongest, ranging from 15-30% or even up to 40%.

Get a second opinion

It can be challenging to judge how you smell to others, so don't be afraid to ask a trusted friend or partner for their honest opinion. They can tell you if you're applying too much or if the combination of deodorant and cologne works well together.

Remember, the key is to find a balance between smelling pleasant and not overwhelming those around you. You want your scent to be noticed, not feared!

Using baby powder as a deodorant alternative

It is generally considered acceptable to wear both deodorant and cologne at the same time. However, it is important to note that the scents of the two products should not clash. It is recommended to use an unscented or neutral-scented deodorant when wearing cologne. This is because colognes are designed to improve your scent, while deodorants are meant to prevent body odour.

If you are looking for a natural alternative to deodorant, some people have found success in using baby powder. Baby powder is often used on babies to eliminate unpleasant scents, especially when changing their diapers. It is effective because it absorbs the oil and moisture on the skin while protecting it. However, it is important to note that baby powder is not as effective as an antiperspirant for adults. As you grow older, your sweat glands and pores develop, leading to increased perspiration and body odour.

Baby powder can be a good alternative to deodorant, especially if you are concerned about the potential health risks associated with conventional deodorants. It can help absorb underarm perspiration, mask odour, and keep your skin cool and smooth. However, it may not be as effective as antiperspirants in preventing excessive sweating, as it lacks ingredients like aluminium. Additionally, powdering can be messy and may leave white streaks on your clothes. If you decide to use baby powder, ensure that you are completely dry before application.

There are also cornstarch-based baby powders available, which are safer alternatives to traditional talcum powder. Talcum powder is very fine and can be easily inhaled, leading to potential breathing problems. There are also preliminary studies suggesting a possible link between talcum powder use and a higher risk of certain types of cancer. Cornstarch-based powders or straight cornstarch from the baking aisle can be effective alternatives.

While baby powder may not be as convenient as conventional deodorants, it can be a good option if you are looking for a natural and non-toxic alternative, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Dressing to minimise body odour

When it comes to dressing to minimise body odour, the type of fabric you choose plays a significant role. Natural fibres such as cotton and linen are recommended, as they tend to be less smelly than synthetic fabrics. Cotton, in particular, was found to have a mid-to-low smelliness factor in a study by the University of Otago. If pure linen or cotton are out of your price range, consider opting for a blend, which can be more affordable and still offer the benefits of the natural fibre.

Merino wool is another fabric that performs well in warm weather. It scored the lowest in "odour intensity" rankings by the University of Otago researchers, so it's an excellent choice for staying fresh. However, merino wool items can be challenging to find and tend to be more expensive.

On the other hand, it's best to avoid polyester and other synthetic fabrics, as they are likely to make you feel sweaty and enhance body odour. These fabrics are commonly found in low-cost fashion chains and "ultra-fast fashion" brands, so they may be more accessible but could lead to odour issues.

When it comes to laundry care, it's essential to wash your clothes regularly and not wear them for more than two days without washing. Body odour can build up, and it becomes more challenging to remove with each wear. Additionally, avoid using too much detergent, as residue can trap odours.

If you're dealing with stubborn body odour on your clothes, there are a few treatment methods you can try:

• Soak your clothes in warm water and baking soda for several hours or overnight, then wash as usual.
• Apply a spot treatment of laundry detergent or a paste of baking soda and water to the odorous areas before laundering.
• For dry-clean-only items or when you don't have time for a full laundry cycle, try spraying the affected areas with undiluted vodka. Let it dry, and the odour should disappear.

Frequently asked questions