As you start to explore and experiment with fragrance, you might find that different types of cologne scents start grabbing your interest. If you really want to stand out and smell incredible, it’s time to add some cologne into your grooming routine.
We’re getting you up to speed with an in-depth look at the different types of cologne, levels of cologne strength and the fragrance families which are going to help your personality shine. But, if you feel like you need to get back to the basics first, check out our essential guide to antiperspirant, body spray, cologne and deodorant.
Understanding the Different Types of Cologne
Diving into the world of fragrances, you'll quickly realize that it's not just about choosing from the different types of cologne scents. It's also about understanding the strength, longevity and projection levels of cologne that are available. A big part of this is finding out that there are several cologne types, each with a different name and formulation. Let’s break down the main four different types of colognes.
Eau de cologne
With a concentration ranging from 2% to 4% perfume oil, these types of cologne are the lightest form of fragrance on our list. Typically offering light, citrus-based fragrance notes, eau de colognes are refreshing but fleeting, lasting just a couple of hours. They're perfect for a quick freshen-up after a shower or a gym session.
Eau de toilette
These types of cologne usually contain 5% to 15% perfume oil which means you can expect the scent to stick around for about 3 to 4 hours. Great for a day at the office or casual outings where you might not want an overpowering aroma.
Eau de parfum
Now we're talking strength. With a concentration of 15% to 20% perfume oil, these types of cologne last longer, typically around 5 to 8 hours. Their higher levels of cologne sillage (the trail of scent left behind by a fragrance) make them suitable for evening events or special occasions where you aim to leave an impression.
Parfum
Finally, we’ve got the strongest cologne type: parfum. They're the powerhouse of fragrances, packing a punch with a concentration of 20% to 30% perfume oil. Their staying power is impressive, ranging anywhere from 6 to 24 hours. As parfum is the strongest cologne type, it's best reserved for truly special occasions or when you want to invest in a fragrance that sticks with you from dawn to dusk.
Before choosing between the different types of cologne, think about the occasion. Are you keeping it casual or looking to make a big impression? Are you just swinging by the party for 20 minutes before sneaking out the back or are you pulling an all-nighter? Knowing the answers to these questions is going to help you choose the right levels of cologne fragrance concentration to make sure your scent game is on point.
If you’re wondering where body spray fits into the picture, we’ve got your back. Check out our ultimate guide to men’s body spray.
Fragrance Families
Now that we understand a little bit about the different types of cologne concentrations, it’s time to talk about fragrance. Choosing between the different types of cologne scents is crucial. You need to find that scent that lifts you up, boosts your confidence and turns heads for the right reasons.
Sometimes scents share things in common, and when this happens, we put them in the same fragrance family – a categorization system based on their dominant fragrance notes and characteristics. Just like music genres can conjure different moods and emotions, fragrance families help you find your way through the world of cologne fragrance types. It’s time to get a little more familiar with these fragrance families to help you find which of the different types of cologne scents will resonate with you.
Pick the right scent for you
Choosing the perfect type of cologne is about working out what resonates with you. For example, do you gravitate more towards warn, earthy notes or fresh, citrusy ones? Next, align your scent with the occasion – like something dark and mysterious for an evening event or light and refreshing for a day at work. Get a little experimental and find out how the different types of cologne scents work for you.
When suiting up with your different types of cologne scents, it’s important to remember that cologne’s only job is delivering incredible fragrance, not protecting against unwanted odor. If you want to prevent smelling of sweat, you might want to layer up your cologne with a base of deodorant to help keep unwanted odor at bay.
If you could use some help in this department, we’ve got you covered. Check out our article on men’s deodorant to help combat unwanted body odor. Need to get sweat under control too? Read our essential guide to antiperspirant.
Cologne is your ally to unlock irresistible fragrance.
Citrus
Citrus fragrances are known for their energizing character. Bursting with notes like lemon, grapefruit or bergamot, they're like a spritz of sunshine and energy.
Whether you’re hitting the gym, going on a coffee date or spending the day gaming, a citrus scent keeps things chill yet zesty. Next time you're looking to make a solid impression without going overboard, you’re going to want to hit up citrus-forward types of cologne.
Looking to add some zesty citrus notes to your fragrance game? Check out our Aqua Bergamot Premium Deodorant Stick, crafted with bergamot, sage and juniper fragrance notes.
Woody
If you’re someone who enjoys the great outdoors and who resonates with the warm, rich smells of wood, you might have just found your new fragrance match.
Woody cologne fragrance types use notes like cedar, sandalwood and vetiver to make you feel like you’ve just put on a crisp suit, even if you're just wearing jeans and a t-shirt. It's sophisticated without the fuss. So, next time you want to feel grounded yet elevated, check out types of cologne with woody fragrance notes.
Floral
Floral fragrances don’t have to be overly feminine (but if you’re a fan, then go for it). Many combine the appeal of fresh, blooming flowers with a gritty, urban edge. That's the kind of mood modern floral fragrance types of cologne capture. We're talking about hints of lavender, rose or even jasmine, often blended with other notes to create a fresh, contemporary spin on masculine scents.
If you’re ready to turn heads with some floral fragrance notes, discover our Blue Lavender Premium Deodorant Body Spray, with notes of fresh lavender, mint and amber.
Amber
When you hear 'amber', your mind might drift to some ancient, fossilized tree resin — and technically, you wouldn't be wrong. But when it comes to fragrances? Think less of a museum piece and more of that electrifying energy in the room when your favorite track comes on.
Amber scents are the fragrance world’s equivalent of that low, sultry bass line that gets everyone nodding along. With sensual notes of resin, often paired with spicy, sweet or even earthy undertones, amber cologne fragrance types have got depth, warmth and a little mystery about them.
Aquatic
Aquatic cologne fragrance types are the embodiment of those chill, laid-back beach days — crystal-clear waters, salty sea breeze and that sunny sense of freedom. With notes of sea salt, marine plants and a touch of citrus zest, these types of cologne are your ticket to an instant summer getaway, no matter the season.
So, if you’re heading out on a morning run or just hanging out with friends, reach for the crisp, refreshing notes of an aquatic scent.
Put your knowledge into practice
It’s great to have an easy, classic deodorant or body spray fragrance in your cabinet. But you’re also going to want to be able to step it up a notch when the occasion calls for it. Having a few different types of cologne scents and fragrances you can reach for is the ultimate way to make an impression. So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to find the right types of cologne that show the world you’ve evolved beyond the basics.
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