It can be hard to choose the right signature scent. With so many perfume brands, options, and scent notes to choose from, it can get overwhelming really quickly. However, one of the most frequently asked questions at the perfume counter is the difference between eau de parfum and eau de toilette. While they might seem similar, the distinction comes down to one key factor: the concentration of fragrance oils. This affects how strong the scent is, how long it lasts, and when you might want to wear it.
Understanding Fragrance Concentrations
Fragrances are typically categorised based on the percentage of essential fragrance oils they contain. These are then blended with alcohol and sometimes water to create the final product. A higher concentration of oils results in a more intense scent and longer wear time.
Eau de parfum, what is most commonly thought of when we think of perfume, usually contains around 15-20% fragrance oils. This makes it richer, more noticeable and longer lasting. Eau de toilette typically has a lower oil percentage, closer to 5-15%. This means it’s lighter, fresher and designed to be worn more casually.
Which One Lasts Longer?
Because eau de parfum has a higher concentration of fragrance oils, it lingers on the skin for up to six to eight hours. Spritzing yourself with eau de parfum will help your signature scent leave a more lasting impression, perfect for special occasions, nights out, first dates or any time you want to make a statement.
Eau de toilette, on the other hand, is designed to fade faster, usually lasting only three to five hours. This makes it popular for daytime wear or for those who prefer a more subtle fragrance. For those wearing eau de toilette to work, keeping a bottle in your bag for a mid-day freshen up will help your scent carry through the day.
When to Choose Eau de Parfum
Eau de parfum is best suited for moments when you want your fragrance to make a statement. Reach for parfum before a romantic night out, formal events or special occasions or in the cooler months for a heavier, richer scent that lasts through the day and into the evening.
The deeper and more complex scent profile of eau de parfum means you’ll often notice the scent notes evolve the longer you wear it, giving it more personality and staying power.
When to Choose Eau de Toilette
Choose an eau de toilette for your everyday scent. It’s perfect for situations when you want a fragrance that feels fresh and effortless. Heading to work or university, casual outings and brunches with friends, or hot summer days when heavier scents may feel overpowering, make eau de toilette the perfect, light addition to your relaxed, informal day.
With its lighter concentration of fragrance oils, eau de toilette often has a brighter, more refreshing aroma, perfect for a more easygoing vibe.
Finding the Right Fragrance for You
Choosing between eau de parfum and eau de toilette ultimately comes down to personal preferences and lifestyle. For a bold, luxurious scent that lasts all day, choose an eau de parfum and make a statement everywhere you go. If you prefer something more airy, versatile and subtle, eau de toilette can really give off that casual, ‘clean girl’ vibe.
If you’re keen to get the best of both worlds, many fragrance houses now offer matching eau de parfums and eau de toilettes within the same fragrance families, allowing you to swap and layer scents for extra dimension and creating your own unique signature scent.
