Upgrading your wardrobe
Fragrance basics for men in hot weather
By sneakersInn team · Updated
In hot weather, choose fresh scents (citrus, aquatic, green or light woody), apply two or three sprays to clean skin on your neck and wrists, and go lighter during the day than at night. Heat makes fragrance project further, so less is more in Accra. A good fragrance should be noticed when someone is close to you, not across the room.
| Scent family | Smells like | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Citrus | Lemon, bergamot, orange | Daytime, office, heat |
| Aquatic or fresh | Sea air, clean cotton | Daytime, casual |
| Green or aromatic | Herbs, grass, lavender | Daytime, smart casual |
| Woody | Cedar, vetiver, sandalwood | Evenings, all year |
| Warm or spicy | Vanilla, amber, spices | Evenings, cooler months |
What do EDT and EDP mean?
They describe concentration:
| Type | Concentration (approx.) | Lasts |
|---|---|---|
| Eau de cologne | 2 to 5% | 2 hours |
| Eau de toilette (EDT) | 5 to 15% | 3 to 5 hours |
| Eau de parfum (EDP) | 15 to 20% | 5 to 8 hours |
| Parfum or extrait | 20% and above | 8 hours or more |
In heat, an EDT is often enough for daytime.
Where should I apply it?
On clean, moisturised skin: neck, behind the ears, wrists, chest. Don't rub your wrists together; it breaks down the top notes. Spraying on clothes can stain fabric.
How much is too much?
If people can smell you from more than an arm's length away, it's too much. Two or three sprays for the day; one or two for the office.
How do I make it last in the heat?
Apply after a shower to moisturised skin, which holds scent longer. Carry a small travel atomiser rather than over-applying in the morning.
How do I choose a fragrance?
Test on your skin, not a paper strip, and wait at least 30 minutes before deciding. Fragrances change as they dry. Try one at a time.
How should I store fragrance?
Away from heat and sunlight, which break it down. A drawer is better than a sunny bathroom shelf.
Questions
Fragrance for interviews and church?
Very light, or none. See what to wear to a job interview in Accra.
Is deodorant enough?
For daily freshness, deodorant matters more than fragrance. See grooming basics.
Fragrance for a date?
A woody or warm scent, lightly applied. See date night outfits for men.