You may think it's easy to purchase a bottle of cologne: smell it, like it, buy it. But following that basic route can lead to the same tired scent choices you used since high school. To bring it to the next level, take note of factors other than what you think smells good on you.
Variables such as diet, stress and your body's PH balance can all affect the way your fragrance will smell on you. Above all, the most important thing affecting how a scent smells on you is your skin type. With the assistance of Pirooz Sarshar of The Grooming Lounge, we've prepared a handy guide on what kinds of cologne go well with different skin types...
1. OILY SKIN
Oily skin has more active chemistry. Additional oil on the skin's surface can mix with cologne which creates scents that last longer and are more powerful. However, skin that is too oily can combine with your cologne to create an funky odor. To prevent this from happening, apply less cologne and choose lighter fragrances. Try fragrances that have hints of citrus and floral tones.
OILY SKIN OPTIONS
INFUSION D'HOMME BY PRADA
Buy It Now at Sephora, $74
MALIN + GOETZ LIME TONIC
Buy It Now at Malin + Goetz, $48
2. DRY SKIN
Dry skin breaks up cologne faster than oily skin. This means you will need to apply it more frequently. Be careful not to apply too often as this could further dry out your skin. Try using fragrances that are stronger and reduce the need to reapply such as "winter" colognes which are designed to last longer in drier and colder seasons.
DRY SKIN OPTIONS
BVLGARI POUR HOMME
Buy It Now at Sephora, $58
POLO EXPLORER BY RALPH LAUREN
Buy It Now at Ralph Lauren, $65
3. SENSITIVE SKIN
Sensitive skin is especially prone to rashes and acne, so it is best to keep your fragrance routine simple. Avoid using cologne in tandem with strong aftershaves and body sprays. This will help to avoid allergic reactions. When choosing a fragrance, follow the same guidelines for dry skin. You should also look for fragrances with all-natural ingredients.
SENSITIVE SKIN OPTIONS
ACQUA D GIO BY GIORGIO ARMANI
Buy It Now at Sephora, $70
ACQUA DI PARMA COLONIA INTENSA EAU DE COLOGNE NATURAL SPRAY
Buy It Now at Grooming Lounge, $83
GENERAL COLOGNE TIPS
• Apply cologne to pulse points such as the wrists and throat. The heat generates the best mix between cologne and natural oils.
• The chest and backs of knees are great spots as scents tend to rise.
• Be careful not to over-apply. No one should be able to smell your cologne from clear across the room.
• Never spray directly on your clothes.
