The Secret To Applying Cologne Like A Pro

Knowing where to apply cologne is an art form. If not done properly, it can lead to over-application or a scent that fades quickly. Cologne should be applied to the skin, not clothing, as it is designed to interact with the oils and pH of the skin. The best spots to spray cologne on the body are heated areas, including the neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, and inner elbows. The wrist is also a great application method as it is a pulse point. Applying cologne to these areas allows the scent to develop throughout the day and creates a signature scent.

Pulse points

There are several pulse points on the body that are ideal for applying cologne. These include the wrists, neck, and chest. The wrists, in particular, are a great method for application as they are also pulse points themselves, allowing for a more effective release of the scent.

When applying cologne to the wrists, avoid rubbing them together as this can disrupt the molecules of the fragrance, causing it to fade faster. Instead, hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from your wrist and apply a light spray. You can then use your wrist to press the cologne into your neck, ensuring it sits below the skin at the pulse point rather than on top of the skin, where it will slowly dissipate throughout the day.

Another pulse point to target is the inner elbow, where the cologne will again benefit from body heat. Applying cologne to the crease of your arm or inner elbow can also be a nice touch when offering someone a handshake.

While the neck, wrists, and inner elbows are the most commonly recommended pulse points for cologne application, there are a few other pulse points to consider. These include behind the ear and, for a more adventurous approach, behind the knee. Applying cologne behind the ear can be especially effective in social settings when people lean in to speak to you, leaving them with an attractive scent to ponder.

Remember, when applying cologne to pulse points, less is more. Start with a light application and choose one area, such as the neck or wrists, for your initial spray. If you notice that the scent fades quickly, choose another pulse point and apply there the next time. You can always add more cologne, but it's harder to remove if you've over-applied.

After showering

Applying cologne after showering is a great way to ensure the scent lasts longer. The shower washes away any lingering odours and opens your pores, allowing your skin to absorb the cologne better.

Firstly, ensure your skin is completely dry. Hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from your body and apply a light application to one area, such as the neck or forearms. You can always add more sprays later if you feel it is necessary. Choose one or two locations to apply the cologne to ensure the scent doesn't become overpowering. The best spots to spray cologne on the body are heated areas, including the neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, inner elbows, lower jaw, shoulders and wrists.

If you are going to apply cologne to your clothes, rather than your skin, ensure you hold the bottle 4-6 inches away from the fabric to avoid stains and discolouration.

Some people suggest applying cologne to wet skin and then rubbing it in. However, this can affect the evolution of the scent and how it interacts with your body chemistry. It is also a waste of cologne as fragrance is designed to be applied to dry skin.

If you want to make your cologne last even longer, apply an unscented moisturiser to the areas you intend to spray.

How much to apply

When applying cologne, it's important to remember that less is more. Overdoing cologne is a common mistake, and it can be off-putting to those around you. It's best to start with a light application and build up if needed.

The general consensus is that you should apply a maximum of two to three sprays of cologne. Start with one spray on one area, such as your neck or forearm, and see how the scent develops throughout the day. If you notice that the scent fades quickly, apply another spray to a different area the next time you use it. You can also reapply throughout the day if needed, especially if you're going out in the evening.

When applying cologne, hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from your body. Any closer than 3 inches, and you risk over-applying, while spraying from further than 6 inches away will result in under-application.

Apply cologne to your pulse points, which are the warmest points on your body, such as your wrists, neck, and chest. These areas generate heat, which helps to diffuse the scent and allows it to meld with your body chemistry to create your signature scent. You can also apply cologne to other pulse points, such as the crease of your arm (inner elbow), behind your ear, and behind your knee.

It's important to apply cologne to clean, dry skin, as this will help the scent absorb and last longer. Applying cologne to your clothes or hair is not recommended, as it can damage certain fabrics and prevent the scent from mixing with your natural oils.

Common mistakes

While applying cologne, it is easy to go overboard. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Spraying on Clothes

Spraying cologne on your clothes prevents it from mixing with your natural oils, which gives it its unique scent. It can also harm certain fabrics. Instead, apply cologne directly to your skin, especially the pulse points, to allow the scent to develop with your body chemistry.

Splashing on Skin

If your cologne doesn't have a spray nozzle, avoid pouring it directly onto your skin. This can lead to over-application. Instead, place your finger over the opening of the bottle, tip it gently, and dab the scent onto your body.

Spraying and Walking Through It

While this method may seem like it prevents over-application, it actually renders the cologne useless as most of it ends up on the floor. The majority of the cologne should be placed on your body.

Rubbing It In

Rubbing cologne into your skin can make the scent fade faster as it breaks the molecular bond in the fragrance. Instead, gently dab it onto your skin, especially the pulse points, and let it absorb naturally.

Applying Too Much

A subtle enhancement is best. Start with a light application and slowly add more if needed. Ask a friend or family member for a second opinion, as it can be difficult to judge how you smell yourself.

Spraying on Hair

Avoid spraying cologne on your hair as the alcohol in most colognes can dry and damage it.

Mixing with Lotion

Avoid mixing cologne with your body lotion. This can lead to an uneven and poorly concentrated application.

Skin type

However, it is generally recommended to spray cologne directly onto the skin, as fragrances are designed to interact with the oils and pH of the skin. This helps to enhance and prolong the scent. The heat from the skin can also help to activate and release the fragrance, creating a personalised scent that suits your body chemistry.

When applying cologne to the skin, it is important to target the pulse points, such as the wrists, neck, and chest. These areas generate heat and will help to diffuse the fragrance. It is also important to hold the spray bottle 3-6 inches away from the body to avoid over or under-application.

If you have sensitive skin, there are a few extra considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, avoid spraying cologne directly onto your face or on broken or irritated skin. Secondly, test the fragrance on a small area of skin first to ensure that it does not cause any irritation. Finally, consider using a fragrance with a low alcohol content, as alcohol can dry and damage the skin.

Overall, the choice of whether to apply cologne to the skin or clothes depends on personal preference and skin type. If you have sensitive skin, spraying onto your clothes may be the best option. However, if you want the fragrance to be enhanced and prolonged, applying it directly to the skin is generally recommended.

Frequently asked questions