How to Apply Cologne: A Man’s Guide 👔

The majority of men use cologne incorrectly.

Over-application is one of the concerns that many men have about fragrance. Most people have known or worked with someone who wore excessive amounts of cologne. You should apply carefully to prevent being “that guy.” You should also apply your cologne strategically so that it lasts all day. This is how you should apply cologne properly:

• Apply on dry skin immediately after showering.

The shower removes any other scents from your body and opens your pores, making it easier for the aroma to penetrate. 

Spray after completely drying your skin.

• 3-6 inches away from your body, hold the spray container.

If you hold the bottle any closer, you risk over-applying, and if you hold it any further, you risk under-applying.

• Apply cologne on your body's hot spots.

The heat aids in the diffusion of the aroma throughout the day, allowing it to blend with your body chemistry to create your signature scent. The neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, and inner elbows are all hot spots.

• Begin with a light coat of paint.

If you're new to perfumes, avoid putting cologne on all the above-mentioned hot body parts. Start with a single spritz in one area. If your perfume dissipates soon, spray the cologne in a different location the next time you apply it. Because you can grow nose-blind to odors you wear frequently, you might want to ask a close friend or family member if the application is appropriate.

• If necessary, reapply.

You may need to reapply your cologne depending on the type you purchase, especially if you are heading out in the evening. Simply dab a little onto your pulse points when doing so.

Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Cologne

There are a few frequent cologne application blunders that men make that can prohibit them from getting the most out of their scent. When applying the scent, stay away from:

• Using a spray bottle to apply the fragrance to your garments.

When you spray cologne directly on your clothes, it doesn't mingle with your natural oils, which is what gives it its distinct scent. This can also hinder the smell from progressing through its stages (see more here), leaving it bland and colorless. Finally, directly spraying a scent on garments can destroy some textiles.

 

• Spritzing the cologne all over your body.

Some guys pour cologne onto their skin while using a scent that does not have a spray nozzle. This is a simple technique to apply too much. To apply the smell properly, press one finger over the bottle's opening and gently tip it upside down before dabbing it on your body.

 

• Walking in a mist cloud that has been sprayed.

While this method appears to avoid over-application, it actually leaves the cologne nearly ineffective. The majority of your cologne should be applied to your body, and doing so this way ensures that the majority of it ends up on the floor.

 

• Applying the scent to the skin using a rubbing motion.

Rubbing the cologne into your skin actually causes the perfume to dissipate faster, since it destroys the fragrance's chemical link. If you're not planning to spray the fragrance, dab instead of rubbing.

 

• Using an excessive amount of cologne.

A man's aroma should complement his appearance in a subtle way. When it comes to cologne, less is more, and you don't want it to be overpowering. Begin with a light application, and don't be scared to ask a friend or significant other if you require more or less cologne.