COLOGNE 101: WHERE TO SPRAY AND WHEN TO WEAR IT

1. Don't Spray Cologne on Your Clothes

Sure, it might seem like a quick fix to spray cologne on your clothes, but here's the deal: fragrance molecules can stain fabrics and fade faster than your favorite TikTok trend. Plus, clothes block body heat, which stops the scent from developing properly. Instead, focus on skin application for a scent that lasts and evolves throughout the day.

2. Do Spritz Lightly on Your Wrists

We've all seen it in movies; characters rubbing their wrists together after a spritz. But in reality, this breaks down the fragrance layers and reduces its longevity. Plus, too much in one spot can make the scent overpowering. Instead, apply cologne lightly and let the fragrance do its thing. Your scent should be a pleasant surprise, not a knockout punch.

3. Don't Overload Your Neck

We get it, the neck is a prime spot for cologne. But going heavy-handed here can create a scent cloud that overwhelms anyone nearby. A light spritz behind the ears works better and allows the fragrance to rise subtly. Remember, you want to be remembered for your charm, not your cologne's intensity.

4. Do Keep Cologne Our of Your Hair

Cologne in your hair? Not the best idea. The alcohol in sprays can dry out your hair and scalp, and natural hair oils can alter the scent chemistry. This changes how it smells and not in a good way. Stick to skin application for a fragrance that stays true to its original notes.

5. Don't Spray on Your Hands or Face

Applying cologne to your hands or face is a rookie mistake. The alcohol can irritate sensitive skin and eyes, and the fragrance awkwardly lingers on your hands even after washing. Keep your face and hands fragrance-free and let your scent shine from more traditional spots.

6. Don’t Spray on Freshly Shaved Skin

After shaving, your skin is sensitive and ready to react. Spraying cologne on freshly shaved skin can sting or cause redness. Wait until your skin calms down before applying fragrance. Trust us, your skin will appreciate the patience.

7. Do Leave your Cologne Out of the Gym

Sweat and cologne are not a match made in heaven. When you break a sweat, your body chemistry changes and mixing it with a cologne (which is heavy with fragrance oils) can create some unpleasant odors. Plus, heavy scents in tight spaces can overwhelm others. Rather go for a deo body spray.

8. Do Know When to Dial Back

Job interviews

First impressions matter, and in a job interview, you want to be remembered for your skills, not your scent. Stick to an odor-busting deodorant and avoid overpowering fragrances. Keep it professional and let your resume do the talking.

Crowded spaces

In crowded spaces, a strong fragrance can be intrusive. If it's a concert or a packed subway, consider dialing down the scent. You want to blend in with the crowd, not stand out for the wrong reasons.

Medical appointments

Many medical facilities require fragrance-free zones. Be respectful and skip the cologne when heading to a doctor's appointment.

Long flights or travel

Confined air makes scents linger longer than you'd like. On long flights or travel, go for an antiperspirant deo to stop body odor, but keep your fragrance light. Your fellow travelers will appreciate the fresh air.

Formal dining

Strong fragrances can clash with food aromas, and no one wants their meal to taste like cologne. Keep it subtle when dining out, especially in formal settings. Let the food be the star of the show.

Where to Spray Cologne: The Right Spots

Now that we’ve covered the dos and don’ts, let’s talk about where to put cologne on for maximum effect. The key is to target your pulse points. These are areas where your body heat will help diffuse the fragrance naturally:

• Behind the ears: A classic spot that allows the scent to rise subtly. Go for a light dab of your fragrance.
• Base of the throat: A little spritz here goes a long way.
• Inner elbows: A lesser-known spot that works wonders.
• Behind the knees: Perfect for those who want their scent to linger as they walk.

FAQs

When would I use body spray rather than cologne?

Body spray like AXE Premium Deodorant Body Sprays act as your everyday wingman. Use it when you’re heading to class, hitting the gym, or just chilling with friends. It’s lighter, fresher, and perfect when you want to smell good without going full “date night” mode. Cologne is more of a statement piece. Save it for nights out, special occasions, or when you want your scent to stand out.

Where do I apply cologne vs deodorant?

Cologne goes on your pulse points (neck, wrists, behind the knees) so the heat from your body helps the scent rise naturally. Deodorant is all business: apply it directly to your underarms to fight odor where it actually starts.

When should you avoid wearing fragrance?

Skip the spray when you’re in tight spaces where scents can feel overpowering—like on a plane, in the library, or during a workout with a packed squad. Also, if you know someone’s sensitive to fragrance, best to keep it low-key out of respect.

How much cologne should I use?

Less is more. Two to three sprays max. Think neck, chest, and maybe a wrist tap. If people can smell you before you walk into the room, you’ve gone too far. The goal is “clean vibes,” not “walking cloud.”

Timing matters most when it comes to cologne. Apply it after a shower when your skin is clean and pores are open. This helps the fragrance absorb better and last longer. Remember, less is more. A couple of spritzes are all you need to make a lasting impression.

Wearing cologne is all about finding the right balance and knowing when and where to apply it. Keep these tips in mind to make sure your scent game is always on point.