Difference Between Eau de Toilette vs Eau de Parfum
There are actually more types of fragrance concentration than Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum, but these two are the most popular ones. In this article, we will briefly explain key differences between each concentration.
Every fragrance has concentrated oils in the formula. It is the level or quantity of this which determines which category the fragrance sits in. The higher the concentration, the more perfume oil and less alcohol it will contain. For example the difference between "perfume" and "cologne" has nothing to do with the gender of the person the bottle is intended for. The real difference is actually much subtler than that, and it has to do with the concentration of perfume oil in alcohol and water. Names like toilette and cologne are used to indicate the strength and longevity of the scent. However, you should keep in mind that there may be some exceptions when it comes to concentration and performance. You may sometimes find an Eau de Toilette fragrance last longer than an Eau de Parfum one. Here are the types of fragrance concentrations sorted by their intensity.
Eau de Fraiche
The most diluted version—containing 1% to 3% perfume oil—these fragrances usually last for less than an hour.
Eau de Cologne
Don't let their association with men confuse you. Eau de Cologne is just a name for concentration level and they can be perfectly fine for women. They are light, fresh and fruity. Typically containing between 2% and 4% perfume oils, these last for about 2 hours.
Eau de Toilette
One of the most common fragrance concentration, Eau de Toilette fragrances a relatively light spray composition—5% to 15%—of pure perfume essence dissolved in alcohol. Expect these to last for about 3 hours.
Eau de Parfum
These concentrations are genderless and very similar to perfume in terms of strength and performance. They contain between 15% and 20% pure perfume essence and can last up to 8 hours.
Parfum
Also referred to as Extrait, Extrait de Parfum, Pure Perfume, Perfume and Perfume Extract, these are most concentrated and expensive of all fragrance options. Slightly oilier that its lighter relatives, perfume is composed of 20% – 30% pure perfume. A single application of a perfume can last up to 24 hours.