Shopping for a scent should come easy. Typically, you could spray a little on your wrists, take it all in and then you may be ready to make a choice. But that is when you face another challenge of choice – the different inscriptions on the bottle.
What type suits your skin best? Are eau de parfums more quality than eau de toilettes? In general, what is the difference between perfume and eau de toilette? Read on to find out.
What is eau de parfum? (EDP)
When you check in a perfume store like parfumedreams, there is usually a sea of options to choose from. However, the underlying factor in unlocking the mystery of any perfume is the concentration of fragrance oils. This concentration determines how intense the scent might be.
In the world of fragrance, the order of highest to lowest begins with pure perfume, followed by eau de parfum, eau de toilette and eau de cologne. Generally, an eau de parfum contains about 15% to 20% concentration of perfume oil, while pure perfumes are composed of a higher concentration level up to about 40%.
Historically, eau de parfums are relatively younger than others and appeal more to a more affluent and classier target market. Generally, they have a dense and more decadent fragrance due to the higher concentration of perfume oils.
What is eau de toilette (EDT)?
Eau de toilettes contain a much lesser concentration of fragrance oils, usually between 10% and 15%. As a result, they tend to have a lighter fragrance.
The concept of eau de toilette is rooted in a French on-the-go culture dubbed ‘faire sa toilette‘, which translates to getting ready. This culture sets the basis for the use of eau de toilettes. The fragrance has a short span (usually within two to three hours) and dips as you approach the end of your day.
Because of their disposable nature, eau de toilettes best suit day to day business runs. Many EDT’s are composed of a citrus-based ingredient tailored for the energy and warmth of a typical day.
Why is the price of an EDP vs EDT so different?
Generally, one of the major determinants of prices for retail products is value. Often referred to as value-based pricing, it focuses on customers and their perceived value for a product. That is why a brand like Georgio Armani, with huge celebrity endorsement, may price their products higher than newbie brands.
Value-based pricing affects perfumes too. However, beyond brand influence, the category of perfume you purchase – whether eau de parfum or eau de toilette – may determine its price. You may consider an EDP and an EDT of the same brand, the same size, and they will have different prices. Why? It’s simple. The value is not the same.
You can’t compare a fragrance that stays with you for long hours to one that fizzles out just before lunch. It’s just like comparing the prices of a handkerchief or napkin to tissue papers. Both may serve the same purpose in cleaning; however, the reusability of a napkin may set it ahead of a tissue.
That notwithstanding, it is no brainer that there are single-use cleaning activities in which tissues tend to be preferable to napkins. Like wiping off sweat or blowing one’s nose.
Similarly, if you’re having a busy day where you’re interacting with several people, you may prefer to go lighter on your perfume. It’s hard to tell when someone with a bad nose will walk into a meeting. Therefore eau de toilettes might suit you best.
But in the evenings, eau de parfums might come in handy, especially when you intend to make an impression on your first date. You’re better off with a more lasting and pleasurable fragrance.
Given all these, you might consider getting both an eau de toilette and eau de parfum when making a choice. Their use appears to be more complimentary than at par.
Additional resources:
- ScentChasers – scent recommendations based on personal use and research
- The foolproof guide to buying Mom a perfume she’ll love
- The best new fall scents for 2020