What’s the difference between perfume, cologne, and eau de toilette?

Do you know the difference between perfume, cologne, and eau de toilette? It can be easy to confuse these scents because they all have similar names, but they’re all different types of fragrances that have different purposes. In this guide on the difference between perfume, cologne, and eau de toilette, you’ll learn about their definitions and uses so you can confidently shop for the perfect scent.

Eau de Toilette

Perfume usually has stronger fragrances than Eau de Toilette but not as strong as Cologne. It has been rumored that Victorian women used to rub their wrists together before rubbing them against their necks because they did not want to be too noticeable in public. 

Cologne is often considered to be the most formal type of fragrance on this list.

 Perfume is a general term for all scented water and was used as a way to describe floral fragrances. It has often been noted that Perfume is historically made using animal ingredients. The first commercially produced perfume was launched in 1770 by a 47-year-old French merchant named Farina or Guerlain. Perfume can also be broken down into two categories; Eau de Cologne (also known as Toilet water) and Parfum (or extract). The latter are made using more concentrated fragrances.

Fragrance Notes

The primary distinction between perfume, cologne, and eau de toilette is scent strength. Typically speaking, eau de toilette is a lighter-scented fragrance with about one-half of the concentration of perfume, which itself contains about one-quarter of the concentration of cologne. If you like to keep your fragrance light or have sensitive skin that can be irritated by strong fragrances, then eau de toilette might be a good choice for you. Plus, eau de toilette is great for layering with other perfumes and colognes as it gives a different scent profile that complements rather than overwhelms existing fragrances.

 If you’re looking for a stronger scent to last all day then you might prefer wearing cologne. Although colognes may have different concentrations of fragrance notes than perfumes or Eau de toilettes, they’re still considered lighter-scented compared to most body sprays. Body sprays are generally unscented or lightly scented with flowery or fruity notes but little else. As their name suggests, body sprays are designed for use on your skin as opposed to being applied directly onto your clothing—although some can be used as a hair spray or in other ways. Colognes are typically applied with a spritz using your wrist or neck as a guide and can be worn alone if your preference is for something milder than perfume.

Finding Your Signature Scent

Many people have only a vague idea of the differences between perfume, cologne, and eau de toilette. In fact, there are many! The main distinction is that all three contain alcohol, but cologne and eau de toilette only contain about 3-5% alcohol as compared to the perfume which contains 18-26%. This means cologne and eau de toilette evaporate quicker than perfume. Further, cologne and eau de toilette usually do not have a top note (though this is not always true), while perfume usually does. These factors help to determine what type of fragrance you will prefer. Here are some other things to consider

 A top note is a key ingredient in a fragrance that will dissipate over time. A middle note usually appears during or after application. It is often more mellow than a top note but can sometimes last longer if it’s made up of heavier molecules. A base note adds body to your fragrance; it may be subtle when you first apply it but will become stronger as you wear it over time. Choosing perfumes for men with undertones of earthy, woodsy smells can help counteract sweet scents to form an all-day fragrance that lasts throughout your day without becoming overpowering at any one point during the day. Remember to consider notes other than just smell when choosing a signature scent – try out different combinations to see what works best for you!

How to get the most out of your fragrance purchase

Perfume, cologne, and eau de toilette are all scents that last a long time, but there are subtle differences between each. Some last longer than others and some have different scents. Here is a breakdown of what you need to know before you make your next fragrance purchase: 

-Perfume generally lasts from 4-5 hours and has a very light smell with hints of femininity 

-Cologne can last anywhere from 2-6 hours and is much more masculine in scent 

-Eau de toilette typically will not last as long as perfume or cologne and smells less pungent than both 

Ultimately, it is about finding what smells best for you!