Body spray vs. cologne. Are we just using different names for the same scent product? True, they both help you smell great, but what is the difference between body spray and cologne exactly?
In this article, we’re going to help you work out when to use body spray vs. cologne. We’ll even explore how you can team up these two scent products to discover your signature scent.
What is Body Spray?
Let’s start things off with body spray. Think of body spray as a subtler cousin of cologne. Body spray packs just enough fragrance to give you that quick blast of freshness without overwhelming your senses. It's a lighter fragrance, meaning it's less concentrated and great for an all-over spritz.
Some body sprays also come with deodorizing properties. Deodorant body sprays are especially useful when you need to keep unwanted odor at bay. They're also a great choice when you're looking for a less intense fragrance for casual occasions.
Looking for a deodorant body spray that always hits the mark? Check out our Aqua Bergamot Premium Deodorant Body Spray, packed with fresh bergamot, juniper and sage fragrance notes.
What is Cologne?
Cologne and perfumes are heavyweight scent products, with a more intense and sophisticated scent profile. They pack a high concentration of fragrance oils, which gives them a stronger, longer-lasting scent.
While cologne is there to make you smell great, it's more about making a statement with your scent as opposed to freshening up. So, it’s perfect for special occasions or to add a perfect finishing touch to your work attire or smart-casual everyday style.
If you’re ready for the masterclass, check out our full guide to cologne.
What is the Difference Between Body Spray and Cologne?
When it comes to body spray vs cologne, the differences can be crucial when choosing the right product for you. Let's take a look below.
Composition
While both body spray and cologne are on the same mission, helping you smell great, they fulfil different roles. Body spray is essentially a perfume with a high proportion of water and alcohol, making it lighter and less concentrated. Cologne, on the other hand, is a perfume with a high concentration of fragrance oils. This high concentration is what lends cologne its superior staying power and depth of scent.
Scent
Body spray offers a fresh burst of fragrance that can be used liberally whenever you need it. Cologne is a more sophisticated option, that is designed to make more of a statement and gives off a richer, more complex aroma.
Purpose of use
If you’re wondering when to use body spray vs cologne, you need to know the different functions of each. Think of body spray as your casual option, it's there for your gym sessions, errands or impromptu meetups, adding a quick dash of freshness. Plus, if you’re using a deodorant body spray, you're tackling body odor while also getting fresh fragrance.
Cologne, on the other hand, just delivers an irresistible fragrance, with none of the protection against odor. It's more suited for special occasions, dates and professional settings where you want to make a lasting impression.
Application
The lighter fragrance concentration of body spray is perfect for a generous, all-over spritz. As cologne is stronger, you're going to want to go with a lighter touch, aiming for your pulse points like your wrists and neck. These parts of the body generate more heat which helps diffuse the fragrance.
Price
One big difference between body spray and cologne comes down to cost and, so a more wallet-friendly option is body spray, which is generally less expensive. Cologne, with its high concentration of fragrance oils and complex composition, is more of a luxury purchase. But a bottle of cologne can last much longer than body spray.
Think of cologne as your sophisticated friend and body spray as your trusted everyday buddy.
When to Use Body Spray vs. Cologne
For laid-back days, you might want to use a body spray. It's light, breezy and keeps things casual. You’ll smell great, but in an understated, I-woke-up-like-this kind of way.
On the flip side, if you’ve got something a little more special on the calendar like a romantic dinner date, cologne should be your choice. Its complex, layered scent is designed to impress, helping you make a memorable impression. Remember to apply it on your pulse points and let body heat work its magic.
Your fragrance choice ultimately depends on the message you want to convey. Relaxed and carefree? Go for a body spray. Sophisticated and memorable? That's cologne territory.
If you want to try a deodorant body spray classic, discover our Apollo Deodorant Body Spray, designed to keep you feeling fresh for up to 48h.
How to Wear Body Spray and Cologne Together
If you don’t want to choose between the two, try teaming up body spray and cologne to create a more personalized signature scent.
The trick is in the layering. Start your day with a shower and dry yourself completely. Then, reach for your body spray. Because body spray scent is lighter, it can provide an all-over freshness without overwhelming your senses.
Once that's settled, it's time to layer on your cologne. Lightly dab or spray your cologne onto your pulse points. When choosing your body spray and cologne, aim for scents that complement each other. Find out about the fragrance notes in your chosen body spray and cologne and see if they are within the same fragrance family. Your two scents should work together, rather than compete for attention.
If you’re ready to level-up your fragrance game, check out our guide to layering fragrances.
So, which will you choose?
We’ve broken down the difference between body spray and cologne and helped you work out which of these scent products is right for each occasion.
But if you’re looking for affordability, you can get your fine fragrance fix from the right body spray. Here at Axe, we’ve worked with world-renowned perfumers to create our Fine Fragrance Collection, introducing five incredible-smelling fragrance combinations in body spray, deodorant and body wash form.
If you want the scent of a cologne without breaking the bank, check out our Blue Lavender Premium Deodorant Body Spray, named by Men’s Health as one of the best colognes of 2023.
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