You’ve seen that attractive lady across the room. They’re looking at you interested and give you that invitational nod to come over and talk. But there’s a small problem. You forgot to put on your cologne and deodorant. Bugger! Maybe next time?

There is actually nothing more off putting than talking to or being nearby someone with bad odour. From almost anyone’s perspective it is one of the fastest ways to send someone you’re talking to running the other way. So what exactly is the root cause of it all? And how can we smell our best?

One aspect is pheromones. According to James Kohl, the founder of pheromones.com, they are “chemicals that are secreted in our sweat and other bodily fluids that are believed to influence the behavior of the opposite sex, such as triggering sexual interest and excitement.” With this kind of power it is very important to be conscious of how to make sure you are well groomed for the occasion. Mens Axis wrote an article an article which goes into substantial length about pheromones. In the article they explain that it has the ability to influence the way people may think about us. There are two recommendations which the writer makes about products which have the potential to give you good results. I’ll let you read the article (linked above) to see who they suggest.

If you are going out for a night on the town or to a party, remember to use both deodorants and antiperspirants. These two terms often get confused and misused. How Stuff Works wrote a comprehensive article detailing the differences between the two. Essentially deodorants stop you from sweating, while antiperspirants reduce the level of bad odour you give off when you sweat. If you are planning to go out partying with the intention of picking up a few ladies, it might help to wear as much deodorant as possible, as well as an application of antiperspirant. One may be good for a few hours but the impact will soon wear off. For general use at work or around the house it comes down to personal preference. Modern Man compiled a solid list of the best deodorants and antiperspirants. Some choices may require a bit of extra investment from the usual first item you grab off the shelf. But it is well worth it.

Then we come to colognes and perfumes. H. I remember attending one event for Getfrank. On a hot summer day in Auckland, at a seaside mansion, I was in dire need of a drink. The host and I bumped into each other at the drinks table. He was wearing one of Clive Christian’s perfumes. Whilst I didn’t think much of it at the time, a small flock of people were soon asking him all about it. It left a strong impression. When you want to make an impression about the care you have taken to get ready for an event, wear some cologne of perfume. Here is the chance to leave people impressed with the pride you take in leaving a good impression. All Women’s talk provides a good cheat sheet of some great smelling colognes that will leave you smelling fantastic. If you are hoping to go after some really high end perfumes, look no further than therichest.com. Their list of the most expensive perfumes averages more than $400 each. Most people out to make a statement would not even think twice about the price.

So next time you are getting ready for work, a party or meeting up with someone, remember to smell your best. People’s best first impression of you is your smile and your smell, so don’t neglect either one.