Choosing Long-Lasting Colognes: A Guide To Making Scents Last

Choosing the right cologne can be an important part of a man's personal style. However, the scent often fades quickly, leaving many people confused about how to make it last longer. There are several factors that affect how long cologne lasts, including the type of cologne, the amount applied, skin type, weather conditions, and activity level. Understanding these factors and applying cologne correctly can help extend its longevity.

The concentration of perfume oil in cologne influences its duration, with higher concentrations tending to last longer. For example, Eau de Parfum typically lasts longer than Eau de Toilette. Additionally, applying cologne to pulse points on the body, such as the wrists, neck, and chest, can enhance its longevity as these areas generate heat, facilitating the diffusion of the fragrance. It is also beneficial to apply cologne to moisturized skin, as it helps lock in the scent.

To make cologne last longer, it is advisable to store it properly, avoiding direct sunlight and heat. Keeping the bottle tightly closed when not in use and storing it in a cool, dark place, like a cabinet or drawer, is recommended. Moreover, applying cologne right after showering and moisturizing can improve its absorption and longevity. By considering these factors and following the suggested application techniques, individuals can increase the chances of their cologne scent lasting throughout the day.

Apply cologne to pulse points

Pulse points are the areas of your body which allow for the most even distribution of scent since your skin there is warmer. The blood flow to these areas helps the scent to project and diffuse throughout the day. The heat also allows the cologne to meld with your body chemistry to develop your signature scent.

The pulse points on the body are located behind your ear, at the bottom of your throat, on your wrist, inside your elbow, and behind your knee.

When applying cologne to your pulse points, it is important to hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from the skin. Any closer than 3 inches and you risk over-applying, and spraying from further than 6 inches away will result in under-application.

You should also be mindful not to over-apply cologne. One spritz to each pulse point is usually enough. You can always add more if you feel it is necessary, but it is better to start with a light application and build up.

If you are going out in the evening, you may need to re-apply your cologne. When doing so, simply dab a little onto your pulse points.

Some people prefer not to spray cologne on their pulse points, as they believe it warms up the fragrance too much, causing the top notes to evaporate faster. Instead, they opt to spray their stomach, chest, or top of the forearm.

Apply to moisturised skin

Applying cologne to moisturised skin is one of the most effective ways to make your fragrance last longer. This is because cologne evaporates more slowly from moisturised skin, making the scent stick around for longer.

Why it Works

Hydrated skin is more likely to soak up your cologne than dry skin. Therefore, applying a body lotion or cream over your entire body before spritzing your cologne can help the scent to linger throughout the day. This is especially important if your skin is dry, as perfumes dissipate much faster on dry skin.

How to Do it

After showering, apply a body lotion or cream to your entire body, paying particular attention to areas where you plan to spray the cologne. If you don't want to alter the scent of your cologne, be sure to choose an unscented moisturiser.

Other Tips

• Layer your fragrance with other scented products, such as body washes, deodorants, and body creams.
• Apply cologne to your pulse points, including your neck, wrists, chest, forearms, and inner elbows. These heated areas of the body will help diffuse the scent throughout the day.
• Avoid rubbing the cologne into your skin, as this can break the molecular bond in the fragrance, causing it to fade faster.
• Reapply cologne if needed, especially if you are going out in the evening. Dab a little onto your pulse points.

Layer with complementary products

Layering cologne with complementary products is a great way to make your fragrance last longer. Here are some tips to help you layer effectively:

• Use scented body products: Try using a shower gel, body lotion, or body oil in the same scent as your cologne. This will create a stronger base for your fragrance, helping it to last longer throughout the day.
• Experiment with scent blending: Try blending different fragrances together to create a unique and long-lasting scent. Select fragrances with complementary notes to enhance and prolong your scent experience. For example, you could try blending cardamom and cedarwood perfumes.
• Use matching body products: If available, use matching body products such as body creams and lotions. These products add emollients that help hold the perfume. If matching products are not available, opt for unscented options that won't clash with your chosen scent.
• Apply fragrance to pulse points: Pulse points are the warmest areas of your body, such as your wrists, neck, behind the ears, inside the elbows, and behind the knees. These areas help diffuse the fragrance, allowing it to last longer.
• Moisturize your skin: Hydrated skin holds fragrance better than dry skin, so apply an unscented or matching-scented moisturizer to your skin, especially to your pulse points, before applying cologne.
• Avoid rubbing your wrists together: Contrary to popular belief, rubbing your wrists together after applying cologne can actually shorten the life of your scent. Instead, gently dab or spray your perfume on your pulse points and let it air-dry.

Avoid over-application

Over-application of cologne is a common fear, and most people have known or worked with someone who wears too much. To avoid being that person, it's important to apply sparingly and strategically. Here are some tips to avoid over-application:

Apply to Pulse Points

Apply cologne to the pulse points or warmest areas of the body, such as the wrists, neck, chest, and inner elbows. These areas help project the scent more efficiently, meaning less fragrance is required. Choose one or two spots to avoid an overwhelming smell.

Hold the Bottle 3-6 Inches Away

When spraying cologne, hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from your body. Holding the bottle any closer than 3 inches risks over-applying, while spraying from further than 6 inches away may result in under-application.

Start with a Light Application

It's better to start with a light application and increase if needed. Choose one area, such as the neck or forearms, and start with one spray. If the scent fades quickly, choose another area to spray next time. You can also ask a friend or family member for their opinion, as it's easy to become nose-blind to scents you wear often.

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 Common Mistakes

There are several common mistakes to avoid when applying cologne:

• Spraying it on your clothing: This prevents the cologne from mixing with your natural oils, which gives it its unique quality. It can also harm certain fabrics.
• Splashing it on your skin: This is an easy way to over-apply. Instead, place one finger over the opening of the bottle and gently tip it upside down before dabbing the scent on your body.
• Spraying a mist cloud and walking through it: This method results in most of the cologne ending up on the floor rather than your body.
• Rubbing it into your skin: Rubbing the cologne into your skin breaks the molecular bond in the fragrance, causing the scent to fade faster.
• Applying too much: A subtle enhancement is best. Start light and ask for feedback from others if needed.

Store cologne correctly

To ensure your cologne lasts as long as possible, it's important to store it correctly. Here are some tips to help you store your cologne correctly and maintain its longevity:

• Keep the perfume bottle sealed or closed: Once a perfume is exposed to oxygen, it can become oxidised, causing the scent to dilute and fade over time. Keep the bottle closed until you are ready to use it.
• Store in a dark place: Avoid direct sunlight and artificial lighting as much as possible. Excessive light exposure can damage the fragrance, causing it to turn sour and give off unpleasant hints.
• Maintain a constant temperature: Fluctuations in temperature can negatively impact the chemical structure of the perfume, altering its scent. Avoid storing cologne in places with varying temperatures, such as the bathroom or near a window with direct sunlight.
• Avoid humidity: Moisture and water can cause chemical reactions that break down the structure of the scent. High humidity can also cause the perfume to evaporate more quickly.
• Store in a dry place: Avoid rooms with fluctuating moisture levels, such as the kitchen or bathroom. If you live in a humid place, consider investing in a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air.
• Keep the original box: The packaging offers additional protection against light and moisture. It also helps maintain a consistent temperature and provides cushioning if the bottle is accidentally dropped.
• Store on a low-level shelf: Keeping perfumes on a lower shelf reduces the risk of breakage if the bottle falls.
• Avoid excessive shaking: Shaking the perfume can cause oxidation and ruin chemical bonds, diluting the more delicate hints in the fragrance.
• Keep it in the original bottle: Decorative perfume bottles may not be properly designed, causing the scent to sour. Original bottles are typically airtight and have a bespoke spray head for precise dispensing.
• Double packing: For added protection, consider double packing your cologne by placing the original bottle inside an airtight bag or container. This helps ensure that no air, light, or oxygen reaches the bottle.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Sunlight is a major factor in the deterioration of cologne. Keep your cologne away from direct sunlight to preserve its quality.

By following these storage tips, you can maximise the longevity of your cologne and enjoy its scent for a more extended period.

Frequently asked questions