Have you ever wondered what the difference is between eau de parfum and eau de toilette? It is clear that fragrance tends to be more lasting or intense than the ‘toilette’ version. However, do you know exactly where the limit lies between one formula and the other? And above all, what are their characteristics and uses to choose the one that best suits you? We tell you here below!
What is an eau de parfum?
Although generally we use the word ‘fragrance’ as a synonym for what we buy in the market as eau de Parfum (perfume water), the truth is that fragrance itself is the maximum essence of the fragrance (around 20-30%). A very concentrated aroma that is not usually marketed so commonly, but rather is diluted in lower concentrations.
In the case of classic ‘Eau de Parfum’ that we usually buy in perfumeries, this concentration is found between 16 and 18%, combined with ethyl alcohol between 80º and 89º.
In the case of eau de parfum, they usually have a long durability, between 6 and 8 hours of duration. They easily fix to the skin and they have quite intense aromas.
If we compare it with fragrance essence, its duration is longer, but its intensity also increases considerably. Because of this, it is not usually a concentration widely used in the commercial perfumery world.
What is an eau de toilette?
In the case of Eau de toilette (bath water), the fragrance concentration is lower and is found between 8% and 15%, combined with ethyl alcohol of 90 to 96º.
The duration of this type of fragrances is more limited, being between 3 and 4 hours, depending on the quality of the product. Normally, it is a type of concentration that requires reapplication throughout the day, recommended for users who prefer a fresh and light fragrance.
The great advantage of ‘eau de toilette’ is that due to its low concentration in fragrance essence, the price is more economical, so if we like to change fragrance throughout the day, it is a very good alternative due to its short duration and the lower investment it requires.
Difference between Eau de Parfum and Eau de Toilette
The big difference between an Eau de Parfum and an Eau de Toilette is precisely the difference in fragrance concentration from one type of fragrance to another.
As we have already mentioned, Eau de Parfum has a concentration ranging between 16% and 18% essence, while Eau de Toilette is between 8% and 15%.
This difference impacts both the fragrance's durability and fixation level, as in the final price that we will pay for the product; while eau de parfum has a higher fixation level, more intensity, durability and therefore, a higher price, Eau de Toilette is lighter and lasts less, also lowering its purchase price.
Which is better: eau de parfum or eau de toilette?
A difficult question to answer, since the answer will depend on each person's taste and also on the product and the manufacturer's quality.
There are ‘eau de toilettes’ with higher quality than some ‘eau de parfum’. On the other hand, not everyone likes the intensity of fragrances, and prefers fresher fragrances that are less overwhelming.
In general terms, it is usually considered athe ‘eau de parfum’ as the higher quality option, since its essence concentration is higher and therefore, its market value and price as well.
However, you should not make the mistake of thinking that an eau de toilette is a second-rate product. Even the big fashion brands have versions of their fragrances in ‘eau de toilette’, which means it is a more economical product for different uses or preferences but not, therefore, worse than the other options.
If you liked this article, you will surely be interested in delving even deeper. You can find more details in our main post on the topic.
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