How to Remove the Smell of Cologne From Your Body

How to Remove the Smell of Cologne From Your Body
Written By
Melissa King
Melissa King
Published: Dec 10, 2013
Updated: Jan 10, 2019
1 minute read
Pixland/Pixland/Getty Images

A dab of cologne or perfume on your skin can smell enticing, but more isn't always better. Too much fragrance is overbearing -- not a good thing when you're at work or on a date. Even worse, the smell can seriously irritate people with allergies or fragrance sensitivities. Cheap perfume and cologne tends to fade fast, but the pricier stuff clings to skin for hours. If you're ready to stamp out the smell, you'll need more than soap and water. Rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer dissolve fragrances and leave your skin smelling fresh.

Step 1

Dampen a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer. Squeeze out any excess moisture.

Step 2

Swipe the perfumed skin with the damp cotton ball. If the smell doesn't go away, apply more rubbing alcohol or sanitizer to the ball and swipe again. Let the skin dry.

Step 3

Mix together a small amount of water and baking soda, if the odor persists. Stir the mixture until a thick paste forms.

Step 4

Smooth the baking-soda paste over your perfumed skin. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water.

Step 5

Wash skin well with water and a mild soap, then pat dry with a clean washcloth or towel.

Tips

To apply perfume or cologne properly, hold the bottle about 10 inches away from skin. Spritz your neck and chest only. That's usually enough scent -- you don't need to spray your wrists or behind your knees or ears.

Photo Credits

Pixland/Pixland/Getty Images

Melissa King

Melissa King began writing in 2001. She spent three years writing for her local newspaper, "The Colt," writing editorials, news stories, product reviews and entertainment pieces. She is also the owner and operator of Howbert Freelance…

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