Men, perfume, and the pursuit of confidence

Men love their perfumes—and with the category now valued at a massive ₹2,000 crore, it’s clear this isn’t just a passing trend. Perfume has become a staple in men’s grooming routines, and for good reason. Men are pretty straightforward when it comes to self-care. They don’t need an arsenal of products, just the essentials that work hard and deliver results. A strong perfume is undoubtedly one of those essentials.

But what exactly do men look for in a fragrance, and what drives their choices? Let’s break it down.

Growing Consciousness About Grooming

Gone are the days when grooming meant little more than a quick shave and a splash of aftershave. Today’s men are far more invested in how they look and feel. Perfume has become a powerful tool in their grooming arsenal—not just to smell good but to make a lasting impression.

Think of it as a confidence booster in a bottle. A well-chosen scent can elevate your mood, transform how you carry yourself, and even enhance your emotional well-being. When a man finds his “signature scent,” it’s like discovering an invisible suit of armor—one that makes him feel unstoppable.

The Power of Compliments

Let’s admit it: a compliment can work wonders. And when it comes to fragrances, external validation—especially from women—plays a significant role in shaping preferences. A single compliment about how you smell can turn a new perfume into an instant favorite.

It’s a simple but rewarding cycle: try a scent, get noticed, and watch it become a regular part of the routine. This isn’t just about ego—it’s about the feel-good factor that comes with being appreciated. And when a fragrance helps you stand out in a crowd, it’s no surprise it becomes a go-to.

Breaking the Routine

But let’s not overlook the need for variety. Routine can get dull, and switching up your fragrance is an easy way to add some excitement to your day. Whether it’s a special occasion, a change in season, or just the desire to try something new, a fresh scent can offer a quick mood lift.

Perfume isn’t just about continuity—it’s also about discovery. A man might stick to his favorites but still keep an eye out for something that adds a new spark to his grooming game.

Essentials, Simplified:

At its core, men’s grooming is all about simplicity. A quick shave, a splash of aftershave, a spritz of cologne—done. But it’s that spritz of cologne that takes an ordinary routine and makes it extraordinary.

Fragrances with warm, timeless notes like Sandalwood, Musk, or Cinnamon are often top picks. They bring depth, character, and a touch of sophistication to a man’s everyday life. That’s why brands like Park Avenue have perfected these classic scents, making them an integral part of the modern man’s grooming essentials.

For men, perfume isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a form of self-expression. It reflects personality, evokes emotions, and creates lasting impressions. Whether it’s about receiving compliments or breaking free from a mundane routine, a good fragrance has the power to elevate confidence and enrich daily life.

So, the next time you reach for your favorite scent, remember—it’s not just a spray. It’s a statement.

(The writer is the Head – Marketing (Personal Care), Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL)