What Is the Proper Use of Cologne?

Cologne is generally considered to be "perfume for men."

Cologne, named for the German city where it's been popularized, conveys a scent when applied to the skin. While cologne can technically be used by men or women it's generally made for men, whereas perfume is made for women. It's very easy to use too much cologne though, so you should be careful when putting it on.

Scent

Cologne is meant to transfer a scent onto a man's skin. Ideally this scent is supposed to help attract a mate. Cologne tends to contain more musky scents as well, because these scents are generally considered more manly.

Place

Cologne should be worn on specific places on the body. The wrists (right on your pulse on the underside), the sides of the neck (again, right on your pulse) and possibly a small dab on the back of your neck. Cologne is different from aftershave as well, which is sometimes put on the face after shaving so that the scent gets into your pores.

Amount

Cologne should be used sparingly. Dampen a fingertip and press the cologne to the place that you want the scent. You should use just enough so that your scent stays subtle--you want women to get close to you in order to smell your cologne.

Contrast

When wearing cologne it's important to make sure that you don't wear different scents. For instance, if you have scented shampoo, deodorant or even hair gel you want to be sure your cologne doesn't clash with those scents in a way that is unpleasing.

Cologne and Perfume

Perfume and cologne both contain essential oils, but perfume contains a great deal more than cologne. This is why perfume smells more strongly, and why cologne is more subtle. The types of scents also vary. Cologne tends to be musky and masculine, whereas perfume is usually flowery or fruity in a feminine way.

References

• Colognes: What is Cologne?
• Coed Magazine: 5 Rules on How To Properly Use Cologne