Discover the technical differences between Parfum, Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, and Eau de Cologne. From the most intense concentrations to the lightest, explore how the proportion of essential oils determines the duration, projection, and character of each Fragrance, and learn to choose the perfect format for every occasion.
Definition of Fragrance Concentrations
The Fragrance concentrations refer to the percentage of aromatic oils (olfactory concentrate) diluted in ethyl alcohol and water. This proportion directly determines the intensity, duration, projection, and price of a fragrance. The modern concentration system was established in the 20th century to standardize the industry and facilitate consumer understanding.
Importance of Concentrations
- Aromatic intensity: Higher concentration = greater olfactory intensity
- Duration on skin: Directly proportional to the percentage of oils
- Projection: Ability to project into the surrounding space
- Price: Higher concentration = higher production cost
- Occasion of use: Different concentrations for different moments
The concentration is measured as a percentage of olfactory concentrate (a blend of essential oils, absolutes, synthetic molecules, and fixatives) relative to the total volume of the final product. The rest consists of ethyl alcohol (70-90%) and distilled water (5-15%).
Standard Concentration System
Hierarchy of Concentrations (from Highest to Lowest)
1. Fragrance (Extrait de Parfum)
- Concentration: 20-40% aromatic oils
- Duration: 8-12 hours
- Projection: Moderate but persistent
- Characteristics: Maximum intensity and complexity
2. Eau de Parfum (EDP)
- Concentration: 15-20% aromatic oils
- Duration: 6-8 hours
- Projection: Good, balanced
- Characteristics: Ideal balance between intensity and versatility
3. Eau de Toilette (EDT)
- Concentration: 5-15% aromatic oils
- Duration: 3-5 hours
- Projection: Moderate, fresh
- Characteristics: Freshness and lightness for daily use
4. Eau de Cologne (EDC)
- Concentration: 2-5% aromatic oils
- Duration: 1-3 hours
- Projection: Light, refreshing
- Characteristics: Maximum freshness, frequent use
5. Eau Fraîche
- Concentration: 1-3% aromatic oils
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Projection: Very light
- Characteristics: Watery freshness, minimal intensity
1. Parfum (Extrait de Parfum) - The Ultimate Expression
Parfum - Technical Definition
Definition: Parfum, also known as Extrait de Parfum, represents the highest concentration of aromatic oils in commercial perfumery. It is the purest and most artistic form of a Fragrance, where the perfumer can express their creative vision without technical limitations of volatility or projection.
Detailed Technical Characteristics
Chemical Composition
- Aromatic oils: 20-40% of total volume
- Ethyl alcohol: 60-75% (lower than other concentrations)
- Distilled water: 5-10%
- Additional fixatives: 1-3% (optional)
Physical Properties
- Density: Higher than other concentrations (0.85-0.90 g/ml)
- Viscosity: Slightly denser to the touch
- Color: Can be more intense due to higher concentration
- Evaporation: Slower, gradual development
Advantages of Parfum
- Exceptional duration: 8-12 hours on normal skin
- Aromatic complexity: Maximum richness of nuances
- Economy of use: A few drops are enough
- Exclusivity: More prestigious and artistic format
- Less irritation: Lower alcohol concentration
Disadvantages of the Parfum
- High price: Significantly higher cost
- Limited projection: More intimate than projecting
- Availability: Not all fragrances are offered in Parfum
- Sensitivity: May be intense for sensitive skin
- Versatility: Less suitable for casual daily use
Application and Use of the Parfum
- Amount: 1-2 drops per application
- Zones: Pulse points, behind ears, wrists
- Moment: Special occasions, night, winter
- Technique: Direct application, without rubbing
- Frequency: One application per day is sufficient
2. Eau de Parfum (EDP) - The Perfect Balance
Eau de Parfum - Definition and Characteristics
Definition: The Eau de Parfum represents the ideal balance between aromatic intensity and versatility of use. Created as a more accessible alternative to traditional Parfum, it has become the most popular concentration in modern perfumery, offering a rich olfactory experience without the extreme intensity of the Extrait.
Detailed Technical Characteristics
Chemical Composition
- Aromatic oils: 15-20% of total volume
- Ethyl alcohol: 75-80%
- Distilled water: 5-10%
- Denaturants: <1% (required by law)
Balanced Olfactory Development
- Top notes: Present but not dominant (30-45 min)
- Heart notes: Full expression of character (2-4 hours)
- Base notes: Long-lasting and satisfying (4-6 additional hours)
- Transitions: Smooth and harmonious between phases
Advantages of Eau de Parfum
- Versatility: Suitable for day and night
- Satisfactory duration: 6-8 hours on normal skin
- Balanced projection: Noticeable without being overwhelming
- Quality-price ratio: Best value in quality perfumery
- Availability: Most common format on the market
EDP in Different Seasons
Spring
Fresh floral, complex citrus
Summer
Aquatic, light floral (reduced application)
Autumn
Soft oriental, balanced woody
Winter
Intense oriental, rich woody
3. Eau de Toilette (EDT) - Everyday Freshness
Eau de Toilette - Definition and Purpose
Definition: Eau de Toilette is the concentration designed for daily use and constant freshness. Its formulation favors the top notes and the sensation of cleanliness, being ideal for warm climates, sports activities, and frequent applications throughout the day.
Detailed Technical Characteristics
Chemical Composition
- Aromatic oils: 5-15% of total volume
- Ethyl alcohol: 80-85%
- Distilled water: 10-15%
- Stabilizers: <1%
Specific Olfactory Development
- Top notes: Very prominent and lasting (45-60 min)
- Heart notes: Present but lighter (1-2 hours)
- Base notes: Subtle, mainly fixatives (2-3 hours)
- General character: Fresh, light, energizing
Ideal Olfactory Families for EDT
- Citrus: Maximum expression of freshness
- Aromatic: Mediterranean herbs, lavender
- Aquatic: Marine, ozonic molecules
- Light floral: Fresh flowers, not intense
- Green: Notes of leaves, cut grass
Strategic Use of EDT
Morning
Energizing awakening
Office
Discreet and professional presence
Sport
Before and after physical activities
Summer
Freshness in warm climates
4. Eau de Cologne (EDC) - The Refreshing Tradition
Eau de Cologne - History and Definition
Definition: Eau de Cologne is the lightest and most traditional concentration, originated in Cologne (Germany) in 1709. It represents the essence of citrus and aromatic freshness, designed for frequent use and a constant feeling of cleanliness.
History and Origin
- 1709: Giovanni Maria Farina creates the first Eau de Cologne
- Original formula: Bergamot, lemon, orange, aromatic herbs
- Revolution: First "modern" fragrance in history
- Expansion: From Cologne to all of Europe in the 18th century
Traditional Ingredients of EDC
Bergamot
Main citrus base (30-40%)
Lemon
Acidity and freshness (20-25%)
Sweet orange
Softness and roundness (15-20%)
Neroli
Floral-citrus elegance (10-15%)
Rosemary
Aromatic freshness (5-10%)
Lavender
Relaxation and cleansing (5-10%)
Regional Variations of EDC
- German Cologne: Original formula, more herbaceous
- French Cologne: More floral, refined
- Italian Cologne: More citrusy, Mediterranean
- American Cologne: More commercial, accessible
5. Eau Fraîche - The Extreme Lightness
Eau Fraîche - Definition and Characteristics
Definition: Eau Fraîche represents the lightest concentration in modern Fragrance, designed to provide a watery freshness sensation with minimal aromatic intensity. It is ideal for those seeking an almost imperceptible but refreshing olfactory presence.
Specific Technical Characteristics
Chemical Composition
- Aromatic oils: 1-3% of total volume
- Ethyl alcohol: 70-80% (less than other concentrations)
- Distilled water: 20-30% (higher proportion)
- Aquatic molecules: Predominant in the formula
Minimalist Olfactory Development
- Initial Impression: Immediate aquatic freshness
- Development: Minimal, mainly linear
- Duration: 1-2 hours maximum
- Character: Clean, aquatic, discreet
Use and Application of Eau Fraîche
- Amount: Generous application without restrictions
- Frequency: Multiple applications per day
- Zones: Whole body, clothing, environment
- Moments: Waking up, after exercise, very hot weather
- Audience: Very sensitive skin, children, hospital use
Factors Determining the Choice of Concentration
Personal Factors
Skin Type
- Oily Skin: Prefers lower concentrations (EDT, EDC)
- Dry Skin: Requires higher concentrations (EDP, Parfum)
- Sensitive Skin: Eau Fraîche or EDT with gentle formulas
- Mature Skin: EDP or Parfum for longer lasting
Olfactory Sensitivity
- High Sensitivity: EDT or Eau Fraîche
- Normal Sensitivity: EDP as standard
- Low sensitivity: Intense Parfum or EDP
- Partial anosmia: High concentrations needed
Environmental Factors
Climate and Season
- Summer/heat: EDT, EDC, Eau Fraîche
- Winter/cold: EDP, Parfum
- High humidity: Lower concentrations
- Dry climate: Higher concentrations
Occasion of Use
- Office/work: Discreet EDT
- Dates/romance: EDP or Parfum
- Sport/casual: EDT or Eau Fraîche
- Formal events: Elegant EDP or Parfum
Economic Factors
Price-Duration Ratio
- Parfum: Higher initial cost, lower cost per use
- EDP: Optimal price-performance balance
- EDT: Lower initial cost, higher purchase frequency
- EDC/Eau Fraîche: Very economical, abundant use
Types of Fragrances by Format
Alcoholic Fragrances (Traditional)
Spray/Atomizer
Advantages: Uniform, hygienic, practical application
Use: Standard in modern perfumery
Concentrations: All, especially EDT and EDP
Splash
Advantages: Generous application, refreshing sensation
Use: Traditional in EDC and aftershaves
Concentrations: Mainly EDC and Eau Fraîche
Roll-on
Advantages: Precise application, portability, economy
Use: Travel sizes, fragranced oils
Concentrations: Parfum, concentrated oils
Non-Alcoholic Fragrances
Fragranced Oils
Concentration: 15-30% in oily base
Duration: Very long (8-12 hours)
Advantages: Alcohol-free, moisturizing, long-lasting
Balms and Fragranced Creams
Concentration: 5-15% in creamy base
Duration: Moderate (4-6 hours)
Advantages: Moisturizing, soft, easy application
Solid Fragrances
Concentration: 10-20% in wax base
Duration: Long (6-8 hours)
Advantages: Portability, no spills, discretion
Modern Innovative Formats
Body Mists
Concentration: 1-5% in aqueous base
Duration: Short (1-3 hours)
Use: After bath, hot weather, young people
Scented Deodorants
Concentration: 3-8% + antiperspirant
Duration: Moderate (4-6 hours)
Advantages: Dual function, daily use
Scented Wipes
Concentration: 2-5% in wet support
Duration: Very short (30-60 minutes)
Use: Travel, emergencies, quick touch-up
Technical Differences between Concentrations
Comparative Formulation Analysis
Fragrance (20-40% oils)
- Top notes: 15-20%
- Heart notes: 40-50%
- Base notes: 35-40%
Eau de Fragrance (15-20% oils)
- Top notes: 20-25%
- Heart notes: 45-50%
- Base notes: 25-35%
Eau de Toilette (5-15% oils)
- Top notes: 30-40%
- Heart notes: 40-45%
- Base notes: 15-25%
Eau de Cologne (2-5% oils)
- Top notes: 50-70%
- Heart notes: 20-30%
- Base notes: 5-15%
Differences in Temporal Development
Olfactory Intensity Curve
- Parfum: Slow development, late peak, gradual decline
- EDP: Moderate development, medium peak, balanced decline
- EDT: Rapid development, early peak, pronounced decline
- EDC: Immediate development, instant peak, rapid decline
Differences in Olfactory Perception
Aromatic Complexity
- Parfum: Maximum complexity, multiple facets
- EDP: High complexity, well balanced
- EDT: Moderate complexity, focus on freshness
- EDC: Minimal complexity, elegant simplicity
Evolution on Skin
- Parfum: Subtle and continuous changes
- EDP: Clear evolution in three phases
- EDT: Rapid evolution, mainly in the first hours
- EDC: Minimal evolution, linear character
Selection Guide by Concentration
By Desired Olfactory Experience
For Maximum Duration
- Parfum: 8-12 hours, maximum persistence
- EDP: 6-8 hours, satisfactory duration
- Perfumed oils: 8-12 hours, slow development
For Maximum Projection
- EDP: Ideal balance of projection and duration
- EDT: Strong initial projection, rapid decline
- Parfum: Moderate but constant projection
For Daily Use
- EDT: Versatility and freshness
- Light EDP: Presence without overwhelming
- Eau Fraîche: Minimal interference
For Special Occasions
- Parfum: Maximum elegance and exclusivity
- Intense EDP: Memorable presence
- Niche oils: Originality and longevity
By Season of the Year
Spring
- Floral EDT: Renewing freshness
- Light EDP: Presence without heaviness
- Eau Fraîche: Very warm days
Summer
- Citrus/aquatic EDT: Maximum freshness
- EDC: Refreshing tradition
- Body mists: Frequent use
Autumn
- Balanced EDP: Perfect transition
- Spicy EDT: Moderate warmth
- Soft Parfum: Cool days
Winter
- Intense Parfum: Maximum warmth
- Oriental EDP: Enveloping presence
- Fragranced oils: Extreme longevity
Modern Trends in Concentrations
Formulation Innovations
Controlled Release Technology
- Microencapsulation: Gradual release of oils
- Special Polymers: Prolonged adherence to the skin
- Nanotechnology: Enhanced skin penetration
Alternative Bases to Alcohol
- Aqueous Bases: Less irritation, more freshness
- Oily Bases: Longer lasting, lower projection
- Hybrid Bases: Combination of advantages
Personalized Concentrations
- Custom Blends: Adjustment according to individual preferences
- Variable concentrations: Same Fragrance in multiple intensities
- Modular systems: Combination of different concentrates
Market Trends
Niche Perfumery
- Extreme concentrations: Parfums of 30-40%
- Unique formats: Pure oils, artisanal solids
- Limited editions: Special concentrations
Mass Market
- Standardization: EDP as new standard
- Practical formats: Travel sizes, roll-ons
- Complete lines: Multiple concentrations per Fragrance
Sustainability
- Refillable concentrates: Packaging reduction
- Natural formulas: Less dependence on synthetics
- Eco-friendly packaging: Recyclable materials
Future of Concentrations
Digital Personalization
- Mixing apps: Creation of personalized concentrations
- Predictive AI: Recommendations based on preferences
- Biometric sensors: Adjustment according to personal chemistry
New Categories
- Adaptive concentrations: Change according to temperature/humidity
- Smart Fragrances: Respond to external stimuli
- Layering systems: Multiple concentrations in one product
