An essential part of your vanity, perfume fills our daily lives and marks our memories. But between the different names that characterize the juices, it's easy to get lost. Eau de parfum and eau de toilette... learn to tell the difference.

Perfume, this delicate essence nestled in a bottle, translates into an odorous composition created from a mixture of different aromatic substances... It is designed to produce a pleasant odor that can be applied to the body, clothing, or used to perfume the ambient air, mask unpleasant odors or simply add an olfactory dimension to a person or an environment. Perfume appeals to one of our primary senses: smell. This sense is probably one of the most powerful, it connects our memories, engraves our memories and coats our personalities for millennia. Many people consider their perfume to be a characteristic of their person and keep the same one for life.

What is the composition of the perfume?

Perfumes are usually made from a complex blend of essential oils, plant extracts, resins, solvents and other odorous substances. Essential oils are obtained from flowers, leaves, fruits or tree bark. They are extremely concentrated, which is what gives them this olfactory power that will mark the signature of the juice. Perfumes can be classified under different categories, such as: floral perfumes, woody perfumes, oriental perfumes, fresh perfumes, etc. Each category has its own distinct olfactory characteristics... There are also two ways of understanding the juice: eau de parfum and eau de toilette.

What you need to know about eau de parfum

Eau de parfum is distinguished by its high concentration of aromatic oils, its composition is different from an eau de toilette. Here are all the characteristics that mark this distinction:

1. Concentration: Eau de parfum generally contains between 15% and 20% aromatic oils. This concentration of perfume is higher than that of other categories of perfume, such as eau de toilette, eau de cologne or eau fraîche.

2. Olfactory intensity: Due to its high concentration of aromatic oils, eau de parfum offers an intense and rich scent. It often has deeper and more complex notes, which gradually develop on the skin.

3. Longevity: Eau de parfum has a longer lasting effect than eau de toilette. It can last from several hours to the whole day, depending on the specific composition of the perfume and individual reactions with the skin.

4. Application: Eau de parfum is usually applied in small amounts to specific areas of the body, such as the wrists, neck, behind the ears, or on pulse points. A small spray or a few drops are enough to diffuse its scent effectively.

5. Versatility: Eau de Parfum can be used for different occasions, whether formal or casual. Its intensity allows it to stand out and leave a lasting impression.

6. Price: Eau de parfums are generally more expensive than other categories of perfumes due to their higher concentration of aromatic oils. However, it is important to note that quality, brand, and other factors can also influence the price.

7. Storage: To preserve the quality of Eau de Parfum, it is recommended to store it away from direct sunlight and excessive heat, in a cool, dry place. This will help maintain its scent and longevity.

What you need to know about eau de toilette

Unlike eau de parfum, eau de toilette is less concentrated in aromatic oils, its subtle scent gives off a feeling of freshness! This is also why it lasts much less well on the skin than eau de parfum. As for its scent, eau de toilette can last up to a few hours, but it necessarily requires a touch-up during the day to maintain its intoxicating effect. In terms of price, there is also a significant difference since they are less concentrated in essential oils (a raw material that has its price), eau de toilette are less expensive, although the price can vary from one brand to another.

Eau de toilette or eau de parfum, which should you choose?

There is no universal answer to this question, it is always a matter of taste and it is not debatable, especially when we talk about perfume. But if we had to list a few points of comparison to help you see things more clearly, here they are:

1. Intensity and longevity: If you prefer a more intense and long-lasting fragrance, eau de parfum is usually the best choice. Its high concentration of aromatic oils gives it a more powerful scent and a longer hold on the skin. This is especially suitable for special occasions or when you want to have a perfume that lasts all day. It is also a good choice for winter days!

2. Freshness and lightness: If you prefer a lighter, fresher and more subtle scent, eau de toilette may be more suitable. Its lower concentration of aromatic oils gives it a more delicate and discreet scent. This is best suited for everyday activities or when a lighter fragrance is preferred, such as during warmer seasons or in environments where a more subtle scent is desired.

3. Depending on the occasion: The nature of the occasion can also influence your choice. Eau de parfums are often preferred for formal events, evening events or special occasions where you want to stand out with a more intense scent. Eau de toilette are more suitable for informal occasions, casual meetings or work environments where a more subtle fragrance is preferred.

4. Individual chemical reaction: It is important to consider your skin's reaction to the fragrance. Some fragrances may react differently on each individual due to body chemistry and skin pH. It is therefore recommended to test a fragrance on your skin* before making your final choice.

* How to apply perfume properly?

Once again, choosing the best perfumes for yourself is a matter of taste. But the last good advice that we could slip you here is to (simply) choose an eau de parfum for the winter season and opt for an eau de toilette that will delight the long, hot summer days.