The Science Of Scent: Making Cologne Last Longer

There are a variety of methods to make cologne last longer, including applying it after a shower, using a base or moisturizer, and storing it correctly. However, the ingredient that makes a fragrance last longer is the concentrated essential oil, which is often pure oil with no alcohol or other additives. The concentration of the essential oil makes the cologne last longer, and pure oils have better longevity than spray perfumes or eau de toilettes.

Apply cologne to pulse points

Pulse points are the areas of your body that allow for the most even distribution of scent, as the skin there is warmer. For men, these points include the neck, armpits, knees, wrists, and behind the ears. However, you don't need to apply cologne to all these points – this would be overkill. Instead, pick just a few and see what works best for you. A good place to start is with the neck and wrists. For most people, this will be more than enough.

Pulse points are the ideal places to apply cologne because the warmth emitted from these points helps the fragrance slowly diffuse throughout the day. The inside of your elbows, wrists, neck, back of the knees, and back of the ears are all considered pulse points. These points react to the natural changes in your body temperature, helping to diffuse your scent across your body.

When applying cologne to your pulse points, it's important to dab or spray it gently onto the skin rather than rubbing it in, as rubbing can alter the scent. Hold the bottle three to six inches away from your skin and lightly spritz or dab the cologne onto your pulse points.

One spritz to each pulse point is usually enough. You don't want to be the guy who everyone can smell from a mile away. Remember, less is more.

Moisturise skin first

Applying an unscented moisturiser to your skin before spraying on your cologne can help the scent last longer. This is because hydrated skin is more likely to soak up your cologne than dry skin. Moisturising your skin provides a smoother base for the fragrance to adhere to.

It is best to opt for an unscented moisturiser so as not to alter the scent of your cologne. Vaseline is also a good option, as the petroleum jelly composition holds fragrances for longer than when applied to dry skin.

If you want your cologne to last all day, it is also important to moisturise your skin regularly. People with oily skin usually don't need to reapply their cologne as often because hydrated skin holds onto fragrance better than dry skin.

You can also apply petroleum jelly to your pulse points, such as your wrists, neck, inside of elbows, calves, ankles, and behind the knees, before spraying your cologne. The petroleum jelly acts as a barrier between your skin and the cologne, so your body's oils aren't able to break down the fragrance as quickly.

Store cologne in a cool, dark, dry place

Storing cologne in a cool, dark, and dry place is essential to maintaining its quality and longevity. Here are some detailed tips to ensure your cologne lasts longer:

Avoid Heat and Light

It is best to store cologne away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Heat and light can damage the cologne's chemical composition, causing it to break down and lose its potency. Keep it away from windowsills and direct sunlight.

Choose a Dry Location

Water damage and humidity are enemies of cologne. Humidity can cause unwanted chemical reactions, altering the scent and causing it to spoil. Therefore, avoid storing cologne in humid environments like bathrooms, where there are extreme humidity and temperature fluctuations. Instead, opt for a dry closet or cupboard.

Keep it in the Original Box

The original cardboard box that the cologne came in is designed to protect the bottle and its contents. Storing the cologne within this box, and then placing it in a cool, dark place, provides an extra layer of protection from light and temperature changes.

Avoid Excessive Air Exposure

Oxygen is another factor that can cause the cologne's scent to dilute and degrade over time. Keep the bottle sealed and avoid shaking it before use, as this introduces air into the bottle and can reduce the fragrance's quality.

Maintain a Stable Temperature

Extreme temperatures can also affect the cologne's chemical composition. Aim to store your cologne at a stable, cool temperature; 60 degrees Fahrenheit is considered ideal.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your cologne lasts longer and maintains its original scent and quality.

Layer fragrances

Layering fragrances is an art, and it's a great way to make your cologne last longer. Here are some tips to help you master the art of layering:

Choose Scents with Common Fragrance Notes or Families

The key to successful layering is to choose fragrances that complement each other. Look for scents with common fragrance notes or families that feel like they reside in similar fragrance worlds. For example, if you have a floral fragrance, try layering it with another scent that has floral or fresh notes. Woody and musky perfumes, on the other hand, can be layered together as they share deeper and moodier notes.

Start with the Scent You Want to Be Most Prominent

When layering, choose a fragrance that will act as your base scent. This will be the dominant fragrance, so spray it on first. Then, layer on lighter scents to allow them to sparkle on top. Think of it like building a house – you need a strong foundation first before adding the other elements.

Apply Fragrance from Highest to Lowest Intensity

When layering different types of fragrances, such as eau de parfums and body sprays, work from highest to lowest fragrance intensity. Apply the stronger, more dominant fragrance first, followed by the lighter scents. This will ensure that the lighter fragrances don't get overpowered.

Try Layering Fragrances on a Tester Card

If you're just starting out with layering, it's a good idea to experiment on a tester card. This way, you can see how different scents interact without having to wear them all day. Once you've found a combination you like, you can then try it out on your skin.

Customise Your Fragrance Application

When layering fragrances, subtlety and balance are key. You don't have to spray or dab on the same amount of each scent. Play with the ratios to discover the best blend for you. Remember, the choice is yours – if the scents you're layering make you feel good, that's all that matters!

Don't rub cologne into skin

While it may be tempting to rub cologne into your skin, especially after a shower, this is not recommended.

Firstly, rubbing cologne into your skin can distort the scent. Friction causes the top notes of the fragrance to fade faster, resulting in a less potent scent. The act of rubbing also vigorously mixes the cologne with your skin's natural oils, which can alter the way it smells.

Secondly, rubbing cologne into your skin can cause it to fade faster. This is because the friction breaks the molecular bonds in the fragrance.

Instead of rubbing, it is recommended that you lightly dab or spray cologne onto your skin. This gentle application method will help the fragrance last longer without breaking down its aroma.

It is also important to note that cologne should be applied to the skin, rather than clothing. Cologne is designed to interact with the oils and pH of the skin, enhancing and prolonging the scent. Applying cologne to clothing can prevent it from mixing with your natural oils, resulting in a flat and monochrome scent. Additionally, spraying cologne on certain fabrics can cause stains or discolouration.

Frequently asked questions