How many times have you picked up your cologne and had that slight pause between whether to spray it directly on your skin or strictly on your clothes? Let me guess, you probably ended up doing both.
While you may have gotten away with this simple act in the past, knowing where to apply your cologne will save you from future troubles, if any.
This guide will explain whether it’s better to spray cologne on skin or clothes and the possible outcomes. You don’t want to miss this.
Is it better to spray cologne on skin or clothes?
Spraying cologne on your skin is better. If you spray cologne on your clothing, it will evaporate more quickly, and you may need to reapply it throughout the day.
On the flip side, spraying cologne on your skin, mix with the natural oils on your skin to create a blended scent. It is more potent, lasting longer in intensity.
There’s no harm in trying out both methods to see which one you prefer.
What part of your skin does cologne last longer?
Spray cologne on dry skin, preferably at the points where your pulse emits heat. These areas include the wrists, behind the ears, in the crease of your elbow, and behind your knees.
How do you properly apply cologne?
When applying cologne, it is important to remember a few things:
Always start with a clean slate
This means that you should shower and shave before applying it. This ensures that the scent of the cologne is not overpowered by any other smells.
The next thing is that less is more
It is easy to overdo it with cologne and end up smelling like a walking bottle of perfume. Start with a small amount of cologne and build up from there.
It is also a good idea to apply it to your pulse points, such as your wrists and neck. It will help to spread the scent throughout your body.
Remember that cologne is not just for special occasions
You can wear cologne everyday to help you feel more confident and put together. Do not rub the cologne into your skin, or else you’ll risk muting the scent.
Also, avoid spraying it directly on your clothes, as this can stain them. Instead, spray it into the air and walk through the mist. This will help evenly distribute the fragrance and prevent over-application.
With these tips in mind, you should have no trouble applying cologne like a pro.
SEE: How to up Your Scents Game With Cologne
Cologne vs perfume
Eau de cologne, also known as cologne, is not the same as perfume. If you find this hard to believe because of how both words are used interchangeably, wait till you learn the difference.
Cologne is primarily a lighter version of parfum and eau de toilette. It does not contain as much concentration of oil as its counterpart, and its scent does not last too long generally. It has between 2-4% concentration of oil.
Which is better, cologne or perfume?
It depends on you. If you prefer a more masculine fragrance, cologne is your best choice. But if you want an intense and long-lasting scent that tends towards the feminine structure, choose a perfume.
Do’s and don’ts for wearing cologne
You can use these tips to up your knowledge of colognes.
1. Don’t rub your wrists together after applying cologne
This will break down the fragrance molecules and make the scent fade faster.
2. Apply cologne to your pulse points
These are the areas of your body where blood vessels are close to the surface of the skin, such as the inside of your wrists, behind your ears, and in the crooks of your elbows.
3. Keep away from sunlight
Don’t store your cologne in direct sunlight or a warm, humid environment. Extreme temperatures can break down the fragrance molecules, making the scent fade faster.
4. Layer it with other products from the same fragrance line
This can make your perfume last even longer. For example, start with a shower gel, then apply the body lotion, and finally spray on the cologne.
5. Store your cologne in a cool, dry place
A dark cabinet or drawer is ideal.
6. Don’t expose to air
When you spray cologne, only dispense as much as you will use immediately. Replace the cap tightly and store it in a cool, dark place.
7. Don’t overdo it
A little cologne in the right parts of your body goes a long way. Avoid applying too much, as this can trigger allergies and skin sensitivity.
8. Don’t apply cologne directly to your clothes
It could stain your delicate fabrics. Instead, spray it into the air and walk through the mist.
9. Don’t rub your eyes after applying
The fragrance oils can irritate your eyes and cause them to water.
10. Know your skin type
If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test before using a new cologne. To do this, apply a small amount to an inconspicuous area of your skin and wait 24 hours to see if there is any reaction.
11. Don’t use cologne as an air freshener
If you must, a little squirt will do. Preferably, opt for an air freshener with less concentration.
12. Don’t apply to broken, irritated, or sunburned skin
The alcohol in the cologne can further irritate the skin. Don’t apply perfume to freshly shaved skin either.
13. Don’t spray cologne directly on your hair
It can damage your hair, dry it out and make it more susceptible to breakage.
14. Don’t use cologne as a deodorant
Its alcohol content can irritate your skin, making you sweat more and cause irritation.
15. Don’t spray perfume directly on your genitals
It can irritate and inflammation and even result in skin dryness.
SEE: Beard Grooming Answers for Every Curious Beginner
FAQs
How close should you apply cologne to the skin?
3-6 inches away. This range is perfect and also helps you smell great longer.
Does cologne smell better on all skin?
It depends. Some factors that affect the smell of cologne on the skin include your skin type, diet, and hormone level. So, don’t be surprised if you and your friend apply the same cologne on the same spot but have different results.
Are 3 sprays of cologne too much?
No, they aren’t. Be careful not to exceed four sprays as it could cause skin irritation or make you feel overwhelmed. In this case, less is more.
Should you rub in cologne?
No, don’t do it. Rubbing your wrists together after applying cologne will only diminish the smell and break it down faster.
Conclusion
Applying cologne to your skin or clothes can make you feel fresh and confident. But the scent might not last for the same number of hours. If you spray cologne on your skin, you will create a more concentrated and longer-lasting scent.
On the other hand, applying it to your cloth will provide a lighter, more subtle scent. Which one do you prefer? If you’re looking to add an extra touch to your look and smell more masculine, cologne on the skin is your best choice.
Thanks for reading.
Need more fashion tips for your everyday style? Then read more on Africana Fashion.
