Few things can spark confidence in a man like a good fragrance. Whether you’re gearing up for a special event or just another day at the office, an enticing aroma can rarely go wrong. But what is your Hail Mary when the budget is small? Can you actually find a cheap men’s fragrance without sacrificing quality?
Understand Fragrance Notes
Before we talk about how to find affordable fragrances, it’s important to have a little background information on them.
Fragrances consist of three different notes, which will hit your nostrils in steps. Top notes are the first impression we get from the scent, often very fresh, like citrus or lavender. Heart notes are much more floral and sometimes a bit spicy. Base notes will last the longest on our skin and tend to be much deeper with musk or woody smells.
Know Where to Find Affordable Fragrances
There are several routes to finding an affordable fragrance that works for you. One of the best ways is to find a great place to get it. Basic stores and online stores often sell amazing-quality fragrances for much cheaper than department stores. Websites such as Dossier create and sell dupes of high-end fragrances for about a third of the price.
Sample Before You Commit
Purchasing a whole bottle of cologne is quite an investment, and once you buy a bottle, you are stuck with it, so you must be careful how you choose. Most places and brands have options for sample sizes or travel sprays. They are available for you to test, so you won’t have to buy an entire bottle. You can try a new one every day or week until you find the one you want without breaking your bank account.
Layer Scents for Longevity
The best way to get the most out of your fragrance and have it last the longest is to layer it. If you can, buy a shower gel, lotion and spray deodorant to put on before you wear the fragrance. It will make the fragrance last longer than usual, especially if your skin doesn’t absorb it after an hour or two. Instead of drying out, you will smell fresh all day.
Get Some DIY Fragrance Hacks
There are multiple ways to amplify your fragrance without having to buy something else. For example, put on petroleum jelly before you spray your fragrance. When the fragrance is fresh on your skin, chances are it won’t last long. But with the jelly, your skin will no longer absorb the smell, so it will sit there all day. Store your colognes in a cool, dark place. This will help preserve it for a long time.
Understand Scent Families and Seasonality
Knowing the notes in a fragrance will also help you decide if the perfume is right for you. Suppose you know which scents suit which season, you can use that to your advantage.
A woody or spicy scent usually would be good for winter because it gives warmth and depth. So, if you want your cologne to last long, do your research. Moreover, it helps you avoid buying a fragrance you end up not liking.
Make Your Fragrance Last
Apply the fragrance to your wrist, neck, or behind your ears. Doing this will help the scent last longer and project the fragrance. These spots are where your body is the warmest. After applying your fragrance on your wrists, do not rub them together. That will break it down and make the scent less potent.
Fragrance and Personal Hygiene
Before you head off shopping, make sure you are taking care of the basics.
Make sure you shower often and wear clean clothes. Fragrance should be an add on, not the first line of defense.
Explore Niche Fragrances
Niche fragrances are created in smaller quantities by smaller brands. They often feature more complex and interesting scents that can mix better with your chemistry. There may be a fragrance out there that sets you apart from the rest. Don’t be afraid to look.
Smelling Great On a Budget
Good fragrances don’t have to break the bank. Once you understand the basic principles behind the scents you like, know where to shop and follow a few tricks, you can enjoy the luxuries in life without having to spend a fortune on them. There are methods to make sure you get the best cheap men’s fragrance for you. So why not try to discover new fragrances that can help you feel great and refreshed each and every day?