The first point to consider is that there is a difference between men's cologne and mens aftershave. Aftershave is usually used to close the pores on the skin after a shave with a metal shaver, cooling and smoothing the skin which has become sensitive by the shave hence closing the pores and killing bateria.

Aftershave

Many Alcohol-based aftershave will shut the pores and tend to have a stinging effect for several minutes. Men with dry skin or who don't like the stinging sensation when applying aftershave should avoid alcohol-based aftershave and use an aftershave balm, which does not sting and is often a preferred choice of treatment for after.

Men's Cologne

Men's cologne is applied after the aftershave, since this has a more intense and longer lasting scent. If you are using aftershave and cologne together, then you should either ensure that they both come from the same brand or choose an aftershave that has a neutral scent to suit the moment.

When choosing  men's cologne, it's down to an individual's likes and personality. But as a rule, for summer and daytime wear then it's better to use a light, clean, fresh scented cologne like 212 Splash Winter and evening wear, use a muskier or woody scented cologne.

Men's Eau de Toilette and Parfum

Aftershave ranges have now expanded to include eau de toilette or parfum versions. Eau de toilette is more popular and is stronger than cologne or aftershave, whilst parfum is the most concentrated scent, with more essential oils and less alcohol.

Fragrance Notes

The top notes are the first reaction you get from the fragrance basically these are the first impressions of the smell they usually last 10 minutes, so if you ever test an aftershave or cologne you should wait at least 20 minutes before checking the smell again.

The middle notes are the main smell that you will get from the aftershave or cologne after the top notes have disappeared. The impression from the fragrance will last for around 4 - 6 hours.