Choosing a Fragrance

What are the different concentrations of perfume?

Perfume is made up of essential oils and aromatic compounds that are diluted in water or high-grade alcohol. The amount of essential oils, aromatic compounds, and alcohol determine the concentration of the perfume. Parfum, Pure Perfume, or Perfume Extract is the highest concentration of perfume, containing 15-40% of aromatic compounds. This is the longest-lasting and purest concentration of perfume. Eau de Parfum (EdP), is the most popular concentration of perfume and contains 10-30% aromatic compounds. The scent is resilient and generally less expensive than Perfume Extract. Eau de Toilette (EdT) is a light scented fragrance with a solution base of 5-20% aromatic compounds. This provides a refreshing scent that doesn’t linger as long as an EdP. Eau de Cologne (EdC) is a less concentrated version of Eau de Toilette with 3-8% aromatic compounds.

What is the meaning of Eau Fraiche?

Eau Fraiche is the weakest concentration of fragrance, containing less than 3% of aromatic compounds. In some instances Eau Fraiche refers to the fragrances lack of alcohol or alcohol free perfume, which is beneficial for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

What are top, middle, & base notes?

Top notes are discovered immediately upon application of the perfume and introduce the fragrance. They are fast acting and evaporate within 5 – 30 minutes. Middle notes, also known as the heart of the perfume, include the largest number of essential oils and emerge once the top notes have disappeared. The base notes appear as the middle notes begin to fade out and form the main scent of the perfume. The elements of the base notes bring together the depth and richness of the perfume.

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