Whether it’s for the use of one’s self or as a gift to others, shopping for a signature fragrance is an overwhelming task. With so many formulations, picking a scent that one prefers is tough enough. Then there is one more problem – choosing the form of the fragrance. Just by scanning the shelves, a customer would see words like perfume, cologne, eau de parfum, and eau de toilette.
It can be all so confusing, to say the least. Aren’t these just fancy names for the same thing? Well, no. These names are forms of fragrances with pretty distinct differences. First things first, customers need to understand that the difference between cologne and perfume has nothing to do with the gender the scent is intended for. Cologne is not a masculine version of perfume nor is perfume a feminine version of cologne.
Most people are guilty of this. It is such a common mistake that it has become the way how it is referred to in daily language. But again, that is not true. So the next time you see the word cologne or perfume, remember that it may be intended for both genders. Unless of course if it is clearly stated, like the Creed Perfume Aventus for Her which gives off a more feminine fragrance than its legendary counterpart Creed Perfume Aventus.
How are These Fragrance Forms Different From Each Other?
Well, the secret lies within the concentration of perfume oil in alcohol and water. All those fancy names tell customers of the strength of the fragrance and how long it will last on them.
The most concentrated fragrance form customers can buy is perfume. It usually contains 20 to 30 percent of perfume oil in alcohol and water. Because of this, it is slightly oilier than the other forms. A tiny dab of perfume lasts typically for six to eight hours.
Depending on the concentration, molecular composition, type of skin, place of application, and other factors, the fragrance could stay for more than 24 hours. Since it has a higher concentration, perfumes are sold for a hefty price. But this might have the best value given how people have to apply it less due to its strength and longevity.
Perfume VS Parfum
Although it seems similar, perfume and parfum are not the same. Eau de parfum contains a lesser concentration than perfumes. It contains about 15 to 20 percent oils, which may provide five to six hours of fragrance.
Another fragrance form is the eau de toilette, which has about 5 to 15 percent of perfume oil. This is one of the most popular types of fragrance form, as it is widely available. Since it has a medium concentration, the scent of eau de toilettes only lasts for four to five hours.
While not the least concentrated among all fragrance forms, colognes contain a low amount of concentration, which can be between 2 to 4 percent. Colognes are generally cheap and have a fruity, light, and fresh scent which only lasts for about two to three hours.
