Just What Is the Difference Between Perfume, Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette and Cologne?
Shopping for fragrance can be confusing at best, or overwhelming at worst. Not only are there top notes, middle notes, and bottom notes, but whole classes of scents. What’s more, once you’ve decided on a scent, another decision must be made: perfume, eau de parfum, eau de toilette or cologne?Fragrances are available in perfume, eau de parfum, eau de toilette, or cologne form. The main differentiating factor of these is the concentration of aromatic compounds in a solvent – that is, how much fragrance is in the formula’s composition. The more actual perfume concentrate it contains, the longer the scent will last on your skin, and the more expensive the product. Following is a breakdown of these categories.
Perfume
Perfume, also referred to as perfume extract, is the most concentrated formulation, and is usually the most expensive. It contains 15-30% aromatic compounds. Due to its high amount of aromatic compounds, it also tends to last the longest when applied to the skin. It is usually sold in small bottles of 1 ounce or less.Eau de Parfum
Eau de parfum, also called eau de perfume, is the next most concentrated formula, and one of the most popular purchases. It consists of 10-15% aromatic compounds.Eau de Toilette
Eau de toilette is also a popular choice, and is less expensive than the perfume or parfum formulations, although its scent will not last as long when applied to the skin. Eau de toilette contains 5-20% aromatic compounds.Cologne, or Eau de Cologne
Eau de Cologne originated in Cologne, Germany. Today, it is a generic term that defines a class of scented formulations by its typical concentration of about 2-5%. Cologne products are available for either men or women, and are sometimes mistaken for aftershave, which is actually a formula containing moisturizer, an antiseptic agent, and perfume. In addition, aftershave can be a gel, lotion, or liquid.Why do some fragrances seem to last much longer than others?
People with dry skin usually find their fragrance holding time shorter than those with oily skin because oily skin has more natural moisture to hold in the fragrance.PH levels (amount of acidity in our skin) also varies slightly from person to person. Our individual levels of PH will determine how each ingredient in a fragrance will react.
How can I make my scent last longer?
Fragrance lasts longer on some people than on others because of differences in our skin (oily or dry) and in our PH levels. To achieve a longer effect, try layering your fragrance. Using the fragrance bath gel, (if the company offers one), then the moisturizer or powder, and then the Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum or Eau de Cologne, will usually have a longer lasting effect.Also, apply your fragrance low on the body, as well as behind your ears and on your neck, so that the scent rises and you won't lose it as quickly. A light spray on the hair can last all day.
What is the difference between a splash and a spray?
There is absolutely no difference in the fragrance. The difference is in the application only. However, a spray bottle, being ostensibly sealed all the time, may actually have a longer shelf life. Making the decision between spray and splash is entirely a matter of personal preference.Why does fragrance contain alcohol?
Alcohol makes the fragrance emanate from your skin. Without alcohol, you would be the only person who knew you were wearing any fragrance at all.What do fragrance notes refer to?
Fragrances are comprised of many different scents, these scents are called "notes."
Top notes are very light and last just a few minutes (5-10 minutes). Middle notes become apparent in about 15 minutes after application. These can last up to an hour or more. Bottom notes are the heavier ingredients. These last the longest, usually for several hours.
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