The Difference between Perfumes, Colognes and More

People rarely know the real difference between perfume and colognes, they usually believe their definition depends on the type of container. It is actually more subtle than that. Basically, these types of fragrances are the same but they differ in the amount oil, alcohol and water they contain.

Fragrance is usually the unisex term for all scents made up by a certain amount of fragrance, oil, alcohol and water. Each type of fragrance is named differently according to its concentration. This is how it goes:

• Eau Fraiche:

  This is the most watered type of fragrance, usually containing between 1%-3% perfume, oil, alcohol and water. It will usually last less than 3 hours.

• Cologne (Eau de Cologne):

  This is the oldest term used for perfume and refers mainly to masculine fragrances. This is usually light, fresh with fruity notes. Its concentration ranges from 2%-4% of perfume, oil, alcohol and water. It may last about 4 hours.

• Toilette (Eau de Toilette):

  This mixture is made out of 5%-15% pure perfume essence dissolved in alcohol. It may last for up to 6 hours.

• Perfume (Eau de Parfum):

  Known to be genderless, it may describe both men´s and women´s fragrances. Its concentration range between 15%-20$ pure perfume essence. It may last from 6 up to 8 hours.

• Perfume:

  Inspired by the Latin phrase “perf fumum”. This is the most concentrated and thus the most expensive type of fragrance. Perfume´s concentration might vary from 20%-30% pure perfume essence. This fragrance application might last up to 12 hours.

The information above will help you decide what type of fragrance you´d like for you or others. If you want to know more keep reading our blog specific to perfumes. If you have already made up your mind, take a look at our most popular perfumes.