How To Make Your Cologne's Scent Last Longer

There are many reasons why cologne may not last long on you. Firstly, the type of fragrance you are using plays a significant role in its longevity. For example, colognes with lighter, citrus-based notes tend to be more volatile and dissipate faster than those with deeper, woodsy notes. Additionally, the strength of the cologne matters; highly concentrated formulas like eau de parfum will generally last longer and smell stronger than colognes or eau de toilettes. The condition of your skin is another factor—dry skin can cause perfume to disappear more quickly, so moisturising beforehand can help extend the life of your cologne. Where and how you store your cologne is also important. Heat, humidity, and light can speed up the breakdown of fragrances, so it's best to keep your cologne in a cool, dark, and dry place.

Applying cologne to the right areas of the body

Applying cologne to the right areas of your body is key to making the scent last longer. Here are some tips on where and how to apply cologne:

Pulse points and heated areas

Apply cologne to the pulse points and heated areas of your body, such as your wrists, neck, inside of your elbows, chest, and back of your knees. These areas generate heat, which helps to diffuse the fragrance and allows it to develop your signature scent. The heat from these points will also help the scent to remain strong and fully develop so that it lingers on the rich, long-lasting middle and base notes.

After showering

The best time to apply cologne is right after showering, on clean, damp skin. Showering cleanses your body of any other scents and opens your pores, which helps the scent absorb. The remaining moisture on your skin gives the scent something to latch on to, strengthening its staying power. Remember to dry off completely and let the cologne dry before getting dressed to prevent any potential staining of your clothes or jewellery.

Moisturise first

Applying an unscented lotion or moisturiser before spraying on your fragrance can also help to make the scent last longer. The moisturiser creates a smooth base for the fragrance to adhere to, and the petroleum jelly composition will hold the fragrance for longer than if applied to dry skin.

Don't overapply

It can be tempting to think that applying more cologne will make the smell last longer. However, this will only result in front-loading the scent, and you will still likely be scentless by the same time as if you had applied less. Keep it to one or two sprays, and you can always add more later if needed.

Don't rub

Contrary to what you might have been taught, do not rub the cologne into your skin or wrists. This can "bruise the scent", causing it to break down and fade faster. Instead, lightly dab the cologne onto your pulse points, as this gentle application method will help it last longer.

Choosing the right time to apply cologne

The best time to apply cologne is in the morning after a shower. This is because the scent of cologne tends to last longer on damp skin. However, if you plan to spend time outdoors, avoid applying cologne to areas of the skin that will be directly exposed to sunlight, as many fragrant materials are photosensitive.

It is also important to note that cologne should not be applied immediately after showering if you have dry skin. This is because cologne tends to last longer on oilier skin. Therefore, if you have dry skin, it is recommended to moisturize before applying cologne. It is important to ensure that the moisturizer is unscented so that it does not interfere with the scent of the cologne.

Additionally, the type of cologne you choose can impact its longevity. Cologne with deeper, smokier base notes, such as wood, resin, leather, and tobacco, tend to be "heavier" in structure and evaporate more slowly. On the other hand, citrus-based colognes will not last as long.

Furthermore, it is recommended to avoid applying cologne too close to the face, neck, chest, or behind the ears. This is due to a phenomenon known as olfactory fatigue, where the brain tunes out a constant smell. Instead, apply cologne to areas of the body that are farther away, such as the forearms, shoulders, hair, or knees.

Finally, consider spraying cologne on your clothes instead of directly on the skin. Fabrics tend to hold onto fragrances longer than skin, and you can always take off a layer of clothing to give your nose a break from the scent.

Using cologne with the right concentration

The concentration of your cologne is a key factor in how long it lasts. Colognes with higher concentrations of aroma materials will generally have better longevity. These include Extrait de Parfum, Eau de Parfum, and Eau de Toilette. Extrait de Parfum, for example, has a higher concentration of aroma materials than EdP or EdT, resulting in stronger longevity. However, simply having a higher concentration does not always guarantee better performance. The composition of the cologne is also important, as different materials have different volatilities.

When choosing a cologne, consider the ratio of top, middle, and base notes. Top notes, such as citrus scents, are known for their fast hit but short longevity. Middle notes take the middle ground, while base notes, such as amber or resin, tend to last the longest. So, if you're looking for a cologne that will last longer, opt for one with a higher concentration of base notes and a lower concentration of top notes.

Additionally, the choice of carrier or solubilizer can impact the longevity of your cologne. Alcohol-based colognes, for example, tend to evaporate faster than oil-based fragrances, which generally sit closer to the skin and last longer.

To make your cologne last longer, you can also try using matching or unscented body products, such as body creams or lotions, which can help to 'layer' and extend the fragrance. Applying cologne to your hair can also make it last longer, as hair is porous and will waft the scent. However, be cautious when spraying on hair, especially if your cologne is dark-coloured, as it may unintentionally dye your strands.

Using matching scented products

One way to make your cologne last longer is to use matching body products. This includes body creams, body lotions, and unscented moisturisers. These products can act as a "primer" for your cologne, helping it to stick to your skin for longer.

If you can't find matching body products, opt for an unscented body cream, butter, or lotion that won't clash with your cologne. Alternatively, you can use a small amount of Vaseline or coconut oil, which will form a barrier on your skin and help the cologne remain on the surface.

Some people also recommend using a matching shower gel or lotion with your cologne, as this can increase its longevity and projection. You can also try layering your cologne with a matching scented lotion or body cream, which will add emollients that help hold the fragrance.

By using matching scented products, you can extend the life of your cologne and enjoy its fragrance for longer.

Storing cologne correctly

• Keep it in a dark place: Avoid direct sunlight as it can damage the bottle and its contents. Store it in a dark room, closet, drawer, or box.
• Maintain a consistent temperature: Extreme temperatures can affect the quality of your cologne, so keep it away from heat and cold sources. Do not store it in the kitchen or bathroom, as these areas experience temperature fluctuations.
• Avoid humidity: Humidity can negatively impact the quality of your cologne. If possible, store it in a room with a dehumidifier.
• Keep it in its original bottle and box: Decorative bottles may not be airtight and can introduce contaminants. The original box provides additional protection from heat and sunlight.
• Store it in a cool place: Consider storing your cologne in the refrigerator to maintain a consistent temperature. However, ensure that the refrigerator is not too cold, as very low temperatures can damage the cologne.
• Keep the bottle sealed: Limit its exposure to open air by always keeping the cap on when not in use.
• Avoid shaking the bottle: Shaking can introduce excess air and cause unwanted oxidation.
• Use travel containers: When travelling, transfer your cologne to smaller, travel-friendly containers to reduce the risk of loss or damage.
• Check for discoloration: Discoloration may indicate that the cologne is starting to degrade and lose its pleasing scent.
• Store it in an airtight container: For added protection, place the original bottle inside an airtight bag, especially when storing it in a location with potential light exposure.

Frequently asked questions