We’re all familiar with that person. He enters a room, and a cloud of cologne (usually not a pleasant one) immediately permeates the space, choking you in its scent. It’s impossible to ignore and, in extreme cases, festers even after he’s departed. Don’t be that individual. How To Wear Cologne
This prompts the question: How should one properly apply and wear cologne? There are numerous ways to wear fragrance—almost as many as there are fragrances available. We’ve heard about various “correct” methods: the cloud method, the spray-in-your-hair method, and the pulse point method. While none of these methods are necessarily incorrect, none are the definitive solution. Consider this your ultimate guide on how to wear cologne.
Here is a guide on how to wear cologne the right way…
#1. Find your fragrance balance
Determining the right amount of cologne to wear is a common dilemma. The question of how much is too much doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. It’s a highly personal conversation, but there is a sweet spot. Consider applying two sprays on the neck, one on the back, one on each arm, and a final one on the chest—six sprays in total. Keep in mind that what works for one person may not work for another, so finding your ideal number may involve a bit of trial and error. Strive for a noticeable but not overwhelming scent, and choose application areas where you can fully savor the fragrance.
#2. Remember your spray count
Once you’ve determined your optimal spray count, commit it to memory (or jot it down). Many people unintentionally overapply because, over time, they become accustomed to the scent and may not detect it as strongly. Similar to going “nose blind” to scents in your home, one can become used to a fragrance. Therefore, sticking to a consistent number of sprays helps maintain a balanced fragrance level, acknowledging that it’s your nose that adjusts, not the cologne.
#3. Adjust according to fragrance type
The complexity deepens when considering the type of fragrance you’re wearing. Fragrances, categorized as Eau de Toilette, Eau de Cologne, and Eau de Parfum based on concentration levels, may require different application amounts. For instance, less concentrated Eau de Cologne allows for more liberal spraying, while more concentrated Eau de Parfum demands a lighter touch. Tailor your application to the specific characteristics of each fragrance type.
#4. Use a gentle application, no rubbing
Resist the urge to rub your wrists together after applying cologne. While a gentle pat transfers a hint of fragrance, rubbing bruises and crushes the fragrance molecules, negatively impacting both the scent and its longevity.
#5. Spritz on clothes strategically
Contrary to the notion that cologne should never touch your clothes, a well-placed spritz can enhance longevity. Spraying on clothes, except for pulse points, ensures a lingering scent even days later. Unlike the skin, where washing removes the perfume, fragrances on fabric persist.
#6. Bypass the cloud method
Disregard the theory of creating a fragrance cloud by spraying it in front of you and walking through it. Unless you intend to perfume your surroundings, avoid this approach.
#7. Prolong scent without reapplication
Understanding the concentration and ingredients of your cologne provides insights into its longevity. While certain scents naturally fade quicker, you can extend their lifespan without additional spritzes. Well-hydrated skin and layering with scented products like lotions or moisturizers contribute to prolonged fragrance. Spritzing your clothes, due to slower evaporation than on skin, is another effective method.
#8. Adapt to oils and solids
For those favoring oils and solid colognes, the application differs. Perfume oils, with lower ingredient concentrations, deliver a concentrated, localized scent. Apply them directly to warm pulse points like the wrists and neck. Additionally, consider dabbing a bit into your beard and chest for a consistent and appealing fragrance, especially if wearing a button-front shirt.
Five colognes to try now…
Featured image: @creedfragrance/Instagram
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