When shopping for fragrances, you may come across confusing terms such as Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, cologne, and splash. These terms refer to the concentration of fragrance oils in the formula, which affects the scent’s longevity and intensity. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll break down the differences between Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, cologne, and splash, so you can make an informed decision when choosing your next scent.
Pronunciation:
The letter combination ‘Eau’ is pronounced like a closed o, as in rose with an /o/. /o/ sound: The tongue is back, the mouth is more open, and the lips are rounded.
Let’s start with splash fragrance, which is a light and refreshing type of fragrance that’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up throughout the day. With a light concentration of fragrance oils (around 2-5% fragrance oil), splash is typically used as an aftershave to soothe and refresh the skin.
Tip:
Because of its light and refreshing scent, a splash can be used as a quick refresher throughout the day, like a trip to the beach or after hitting the gym.
Cologne is often used interchangeably with Eau de Toilette, but it technically refers to a type of fragrance that’s more citrusy and refreshing. Due to its light concentration of fragrance oil (contains around 2-5% fragrance oil with alcohol and water) which makes it perfect for daytime wear and can be used for a quick refresh during the day.
Tip:
If you want your cologne to last longer, apply it to your pulse points, such as your wrists, neck, and chest.
Next, we have EDT which is short for Eau de Toilette. It is a popular type of fragrance that’s widely available in the market. Known for its fresh and subtle scent, EDT has a lighter concentration of oils (around 5-10% fragrance oil with alcohol and water) and is perfect for everyday wear and can last for a few hours. Its lightness and affordability make it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle fragrance.
Tip:
If you are looking at creating that memorable impression on someone, an EDT like Forever Red by Gold Series, is the way to go. With its sensual fragrance for women, it embodies energy and fire.
Lastly, Eau de Parfum (EDP) is a type of fragrance with a higher concentration of oils (around 10 -30% fragrance oil) than EDT, making it more intense and long-lasting. EDP fragrances typically last for several hours and can be a good choice for special occasions or evening wear. They are also more expensive than EDT and cologne due to their higher concentration of fragrance oils.
Tip:
The best time to apply an EDP is directly after the shower. Not only is your skin free of dirt, but it is also warm and damp creating the optimum conditions to fully absorb the fragrance.
When shopping for fragrances, along with considering the occasion, it’s important to keep in mind that each fragrance will smell slightly different on everyone, due to factors such as body chemistry and skin type. It’s always a good idea to test a fragrance before purchasing it, either by getting a sample or testing it on your skin. This will help you get a better idea of how the fragrance smells on you and whether it’s the right fit. And don’t forget, choosing the perfect fragrance takes time, so don’t rush the process, and enjoy the journey!
“Understanding the differences between EDT, EDP, cologne, and splash can help you make an informed decision when choosing your next fragrance. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing scent or a more sophisticated and long-lasting fragrance, there’s a type of fragrance that’s right for you. So, go ahead and explore the world of fragrances, and find your perfect scent!” – Shakil Ahmad, from Perfume brand Gold Series.
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