Fragrance: Concentration

Fragrance Concentration

Choosing a perfume 'concentration' to suit you is a pretty confusing decision, as so many fragrances are available in an assortment of strengths. The main ingredient in any fragrance is an alcoholic water solution, in which the notes are suspended evenly to keep the scent potent. After this, it is the percentage of perfume in relation to the water that will determine its strength. These strengths are known as Parfum, Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Cologne, Eau Fraiche and Aftershave.

Take a little time to look at our guide... once you get the hang of the jargon you'll be able to select a fragrance with your eyes closed!

Parfum (Perfume/Perfume Extract/Parfum Extrait/Elixir)

This is the strongest concentration of fragrance, with a concentration of up to an impressive 40%. Parfum is the most expensive variant in any fine fragrance range, as it comprises a potent blend of essential oils, pure fragrance and alcohol. Luxurious, opulent and heady, parfum is compiled to provide exceptionally long-lasting fragrance from very little liquid, and should be dabbed sparingly on the skin.

Eau de Parfum (EDP)

The next in line in terms of fragrance strength is an Eau de Parfum, with a concentration of 15% to 20%. Eau de Parfum is most often presented in a spray format, although it is occasionally available in a dab variation from traditional perfume houses. This concentration gives a more enduring scent at a more accessible price.

Eau de Toilette (EDT)

Less concentrated is the Eau de Toilette fragrance, with a fragrance content of up to 15%. Eau de Toilettes do not last as long on the skin as Parfum or Eau de Parfum, though they still tend to be the most popular concentration due to their versatility. They contain fewer essential oils, a greater percentage of water and are nearly always presented in a spray, making them an appealing and very wearable choice.

Eau de Cologne (EDC)

Weaker than an EDT, Eau de Colognes will typically have up as concentration of up to 8%. A more uplifting scent due to its weaker concentration, these are very popular spring and summer scents that are good for liberal spritzing.

Eau Fraiche (Summer Scent/Body Mist/Perfumed Mist)

Somewhat similar to an EDC, an Eau Fraiche has a very low concentration of up to 7%. The format is designed as a light, scented refresher which proves extremely popular in the warmer weather. As some contain no alcohol at all, these are perfect summer scents, and tend to be packaged as limited edition seasonal fragrances.

Aftershave Splash/Spray

Aftershave splashes are particularly formulated to be applied to the face after shaving as the high alcohol content helps to close the pores. A very lightly fragranced concentration of around 3% perfume oil scents the skin delicately without irritation and softens and smoothes the skin.