Men are often challenged in some cases even overwhelmed at selecting a proper mens fragrance. What should I buy aftershave, cologne, Eau de toilette? Rest assured that it is not that difficult to select the proper fragrance, once you understand each fragrance function and your needs. Often, times you may need more than one type of fragrance as your daily needs will vary.

First you must understand the differences between cologne, Eau de toilette (EDT) and aftershave. Yes, both cologne and aftershave have a similar fragrance in the bottle, but in reality there are differences. Aftershave is designed to use after a man shaves. Aftershave is used to close the pores and may offer an intense sensation after its application. This is the result of the aftershave closing the users pores.

Colognes scent is always stronger, and last longer than aftershave. Cologne is used as a fragrance to give a person a pleasant scent. People often become confused on the differences between cologne and EDT, when in actuality cologne and EDT are the same. The term EDT is a common term used in Europe, where cologne is a more commonly used here in the states.

Second, you must understand that a fragrance is composed of many layers of scents. These scents are broken down into groups of scents known as top notes middle notes, and bottom or base notes. Top notes are usually light spices, fruity, citrus or minty scents that disappear after about ten minutes after application. Middle notes are usually are middle spices vanilla, cinnamon, woodsy, and heavier citrus scents such as grapefruit or orange that last for about an hour. Lastly, the fragrance contains bottom or base notes. This is the mature fragrance, the scent that you will be known for after you leave the room. The bottom or base notes are composed of stronger scents: long-lasting leathers, woods, tobacco, and heavy spices such as peppers and cloves.

Lastly it is time to select the fragrance that you need. Never buy a fragrance after just smelling the fragrance on someone or just smelling a sample sprayed on a scent card. The reason behind this is two fold. First the scent changes after it matures. Secondly and more importantly, all fragrances do not smell the same on all people! The smell created from fragrances is a result of a basic chemical reaction between an individual and the fragrance once it is applied. Since each person has different body chemistry, when the fragrance is applied, the reaction or smell may be slightly different than someone else who wears the same fragrance.

So how do I buy the right fragrance? Smell the fragrances on smell cards, once you determine that you may like a fragrance spray it on your wrist. Smell it in intervals, of ten, sixty, and ninety minutes. This is done to smell the fragrance in intervals and different stages of its reaction with your ph. If the scent is one that you like and one that you would wear than purchase it either at the store or on the internet. You may chose to purchase both an aftershave, and cologne as your needs, and desired strength of fragrance may change based on what your day has in store for you.