Solid cologne may sound like a bit of a gimmick but once you look into it, it’s hard to ignore how practical it is. In this article we’ll talk about the pros and cons, and show you how to use solid cologne!
Despite some of the advertising you’ll see, solid cologne isn’t actually a new thing, it’s actually been around for as long as perfume has. There are lots of benefits, but a few downsides too.
Durability and portability are big selling points, as is the lack of alcohol (a big benefit if you have sensitive skin).
However, the most important thing about getting the most out of your solid cologne is learning how to apply it correctly – read on!
What is Solid Cologne?
Regular perfumes use a mix of water and alcohol as a base for the perfume oils, which you then spritz on the skin.
Solid colognes are typically made with a natural wax such as shea butter or beeswax as the fragrance medium instead. The product is then gently rubbed into the skin, typically at pulse points like the neck or wrist.
The scent is activated throughout the day and it begins to blend subtly with your own natural musk, just as liquid perfume does.
Typically the scent from a solid cologne is a reasonably long-lasting, but projects less (making them a great option for an office environment).
How to Use Solid Cologne
Since solid colognes have a wax base, they will be more difficult to apply when they are cold — but you also don’t want to go overboard and have your solid cologne melt.
Maintaining the integrity of your solid cologne while also making it easy to work with is best accomplished by keeping it at a comfortable room temperature.
This is important because you do not want to “dig” into the solid cologne. When applying, gently swipe your fingers across the surface of the waxy cologne, remembering that less is more.
If you do take too much cologne, just wipe the excess on your finger against the tin’s edge to put some back. Try doing that with liquid cologne!
Pulse Points
You probably know that pulse points are the locations on your body where you can essentially feel your pulse, such as the neck and wrists.
Because the blood is close to the skin’s surface at these points, the essential oils used in the cologne will be kept warm.
This then allows the scent to come to life more. Again – this is no different to the advice we’d give for applying regular cologne or perfume.
Wrists
One popular pulse point to apply cologne is on the wrists, primarily because it is not overpowering if you just want to try it out.
Wearing a solid cologne on your wrists allows you to get a sense of it without overexposing those around you. The biggest problem with the wrists is that washing your hands can inadvertently wipe off some of the cologne.
Unlike spray-on colognes though, solid colognes can be applied in small amounts at first and gradually increased, or just topped-up if necessary.
Neck
The neck is an excellent location for applying any type of fragrance, but especially cologne.
If you just want to smell great to a partner by wearing a fragrance, the neck is by far the best pulse point to apply your solid cologne.
While a liquid spray-on cologne will quickly evaporate, a solid cologne will stick around and last much longer due to its more concentrated composition.
Finding the Right Scent for You
To get a clear picture of the wide variety of fragrances available today, visit your local department store and try solid colognes physically..
It is extremely beneficial to test a small amount of the fragrance on your skin. This is why most cosmetics stores provide testers for customers to try before purchasing.
Skin has its own collection of hormones and pheromones that can drastically alter how a fragrance smells.
Benefits of Solid Cologne
Portable
The containers tend to be small and light which make them ideal for carrying with you on the go when compared to a spray bottle.
You can keep it in your bag or slip it into your pocket to refresh your scent throughout the day as needed.
Durable
A solid cologne will not smash and leak its contents all over the place if you drop the bag or the cologne itself on the floor. They are much more durable when housed in a small metal tin.
Easy to Use
Another advantage of solid colognes is that they are very easy to use and the scents are typically milder, so you won’t fill every room that you step into with cologne which can make those around you feel like their nostrils are being overwhelmed.
All you have to do is gently swipe your fingers over it before dabbing it on your neck or wrists. The only real downside is then you do have to make sure you’ve wiped off your fingers.
Gentle
Most aftershaves contain a high percentage of alcohol, which is often marketed as a skin-drying ingredient.
Whether or not the occasional spray on your skin is bad for it, using a solid cologne isn’t because it doesn’t contain any alcohol or water, and instead uses natural moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and essential oils.
Drawbacks of Solid Cologne
Scent Lifespan
Most solid colognes typically have a duration of two to four hours, which is longer than cheaper aftershaves, but not as long as an Eau de Parfum.
However, as we said earlier, this is partially offset by its portability and ease of use, so if you don’t mind topping up later in the day, this may not be a big disadvantage for you.
Limited Choice
There aren’t that many solid colognes available, so your favorite scent is unlikely to be available in solid form. However, the options are expanding rapidly, with many great companies constantly developing new fragrances.
Before You Go
OK, that’s a wrap! Hope you give solid colognes a try and let us know what you think in the comments.
No matter whether you like solid or regular liquid cologne, one thing we all like getting is compliments on our scent choice! Be sure to check out our next article:
The Most Complimented Men’s Fragrances!
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Bonus Video
For an alternate take, check out this video on the downsides of solid cologne use.
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