Cologne and Smelling Great

12.12.2017 |

Episode #5 of the course Men’s guide to grooming and style by Eddy Larkson

 

Welcome to Day 5!

So far, you’ve learned how to take care of your skin, pick your perfect hair style, shave, and clean your body. Now, we’ll make sure you smell great all day long with the right cologne!

First, let’s talk about how much cologne to wear. Too many guys think that spraying their body ten times means they will walk around and everyone will compliment their smell…don’t be that guy!

 

Cologne Hacks

Here are the key hacks that will help you to use cologne properly.

• It’s always better to go with less scent, which makes people just able to tell that you smell good but not quite able to put their finger on what it is. Generally speaking, one to two sprays is plenty. If your spray nozzle is small and does not put out much, you may be able to get away with two or three sprays by spraying it in front of you and gently walking into the scent.

• It’s best to put your cologne on right after you shower and get dressed (hopefully in fresh, clean-smelling clothes!).

• It is actually harmful to your skin to apply cologne or perfume directly on it. Some guys may apply cologne to their neck or their wrists, but this can actually irritate your skin and cause issues. Instead, make sure to spray your fragrance at least six inches away from you and aim it at your clothes, not your skin.

 

Scent of Your Cologne

The most important aspect of your cologne is, of course, the scent. Obviously, it’s up to you to choose whatever you like, but here are a few general recommendations:

• Try and pick a scent that does not compete with the scent of your soap or body wash. Hopefully, your soap is not so strong that it is overpowering or very noticeable on you, but you certainly don’t want to have a woodsy cologne competing with a citrus body wash.

• A heavy, muskier scent, especially if it has hints of cinnamon or some kind of spice, should be worn to more formal, evening events, compared to your normal office during the day, for example.

• For warmer months or less formal events, try scents that are more citrusy and lighter.

• Try not to just have one “go-to” scent for the whole year, as the colder months can call for more of a woodsy scent, whereas hints of lemon, lime, orange, etc. thrive for summer scents.

 

Dry Cologne vs. Spray Cologne

Some guys have tried dry cologne, which is essentially a “block” of cologne that you rub with your fingers and apply on places like your wrist or neck. The main benefit is that it’s easier to travel with or even carry in your pocket and use as needed.

However, I personally would recommend staying away from dry cologne, as it can irritate your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. But you are obviously welcome to try it for yourself and see what works best for you!

 

Key Takeaways

It is a safe bet to apply one spray of cologne directly onto your clothes and never on your skin. In the winter, use scents that are more woodsy or heavy, especially for formal events, and in the warmer months, use scents that are light and have citrus hints. When choosing your cosmetics, remember that the scent of your cologne shouldn’t compete with the scent of your body wash or soap.

Tomorrow, we’re going to switch gears into looking at how we can upgrade your style game by choosing the perfect shirt for any occasion!

 

Recommended reading

Guide to fragrance

 

Recommended book

Man Up!: 367 Classic Skills for the Modern Guy by Paul O’Donnell

 

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