What Is Eau de Parfum?

Did you know that we’ve been using perfume for more than 5,000 years?

If you’re looking for a scent, you may be a little unsure as to exactly what to choose.

There are so many different options to choose from; Eau de Cologne, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum. 

Read on as we take a closer look at Eau de Parfum and what sets it apart from the other options.

It’s All About Concentration

Whilst at first glance, the many different types of fragrances may seem confusing, the distinction between them all is actually very simple. It’s all a matter of concentration.

Fragrances are made from a base fragrance oil. These oils are then diluted in alcohol which helps them to evaporate on your skin. It is this evaporation that allows the fragrance to release its smell.

The different types of fragrances are distinguished by the different concentrations of base perfume that they use. Below are the most common categories.

Eau Fraiche

Eau Fraiche is the most diluted of all the fragrances, typically using as little as 1% perfume oil. As well as dilution in alcohol, water is also added to the mixture. This is where the ‘Eau’ comes from in the name; it is the french word for water.

Eau Fraiche fragrances usually last for less than an hour, so need to be reapplied regularly.

Eau de Cologne

Eau de Cologne uses up to about 5% perfume oil. 

These fragrances last for about two hours. Eau de Cologne is often associated with male fragrances, but women can wear Eau de Cologne just as much as a man can.

Eau de Toilette

Eau de Toilette typically contains around 10% perfume oil.

And no, the name doesn’t translate as toilet water! Toilette is a french word referring to the ritual of getting yourself prepared for the day ahead, from washing to applying fragrances. 

Eau de Toilette will typically last about three hours before you’ll need to reapply it.

Eau de Parfum

Eau de Parfum typically has a concentration of around 15% perfume oils.

These fragrances can last up to eight hours, so although they are more expensive than fragrances with lower concentrations, a little can go a long way. 

An Eau de Parfum 100ml bottle can easily last you well over a year.

Perfume

Perfume is the most highly concentrated of all the options, and therefore also the most expensive.

If you’re eagle-eyed, you will have spotted that this is the only fragrance on the list that doesn’t contain the word ‘eau’. That’s because perfume usually doesn’t contain any water; the oils are diluted purely in alcohol.

Perfume can last up to 24 hours from a single application, so you should always be sure to use it very sparingly.

Why Choose Eau de Parfum?

As you can see, Eau de Parfum is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a fragrance you can apply and forget about.

You’ll smell stunning for up to eight hours without the need to remember to reapply the fragrance, and since the concentration of perfume oils is lower than perfume, Eau de Parfum is more affordable, too. 

If you’re looking for a fragrance to wear all day, Eau de Parfum is a great choice.

Ready To Give Eau de Parfum a Try?

Now you know the differences between the different types of fragrances, you can give Eau de Parfum a try, safe in the knowledge that you not only know how it is made, but how long it will last.

It’s a perfect trade-off between price and function; after all, unless you’re Marilyn Monroe, how many of us want to smell delicious when we’re asleep?

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