The Difference Between Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum

The last step in your morning routine is applying your toilette or parfum before heading out ready to seize the day, smelling amazing. Although — have you ever stopped and asked yourself what the difference is between eau de toilette and eau de parfum? Some say it’s simply the price tag. But they’d be wrong. There’s more to it than a price tag. 

There are a lot of differences between the eau de’s, and you want to choose the right one for your needs. This article will explore what makes them different and answer those frequently asked questions. We’ll explain what exactly each eau de type is, what you should expect from each and when is best for each type to be used.

However, before diving into the differences between eau de toilette and eau de parfum, let’s take a few steps back… Perfume has a rich history across the world. In England, perfume gained momentum during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. It is thought that all public areas were scented with perfume during Queen Elizabeth I’s reign as she couldn’t stand bad odours. 

Fast forward to the present day, fragrance has become a part of everyday life. There is something quite special about how a scent can bring on a wave of emotion. It adds confidence and sparks memories. After all, there is always that one perfume that takes us back in time, or reminds us of a special someone.

What are the types of perfume?

There are usually five types of perfumes. These are parfum, eau de parfum, eau de toilette, eau de cologne, and eau de fraiche. The only major difference in these scents, or perfumes, is the ratio of their fragranced oils. Some perfumes, like parfum and eau de parfum have a higher ratio of fragranced oils compared to their lighter counterparts, such as eau de toilette. 

The perfume with the lowest concentration of fragranced oils is eau de fraiche. It’s very light and doesn’t hold for very long. However, it’s great for those starting out, experimenting with perfumes before they choose their signature scent!

What is Eau de Toilette?

Eau de toilette, also known as EDT, is a blend of water, alcohol, and concentrated oils. The combination of liquids generates a well-balanced, wearable scent. EDT is usually much less concentrated than eau de parfum. It usually consists of about 5-15% concentrated fragrance oils. As a result of its light scent, it's a terrific option for daytime or business wear because it won't be as overwhelming. 

What is Eau de Parfum?

Eau de parfum, also knows as EDP, is a much more concentrated perfume, usually with a concentration of around 20%. It has a much more prominent scent, lasting for around eight hours on your skin, sometimes even longer. Due to its lasting fragrance and more prominent notes, it usually costs more than EDT. This is why it’s so good to wear on special occasions. Or, those days you want to stay smelling fabulous all day long without needing to top-up.

There’s a place for both on your shelf, and it’s just about choosing which scent and when to wear it.

Is parfum the same as perfume?

Parfum and perfume see a lot of confusion. Essentially, they are both versions of the same thing. They are both a type of perfume, although they have different concentration levels of scent. Similar to the difference between eau de parfum and eau de toilette, one is simply stronger than the other. They are different variants of perfume. 

Parfum is the type with the highest levels of concentrated perfume oils. It is often thought of as ‘the best perfume’ – it lasts all day long. However, it can leave an oily residue but don’t let this deter you. As long as you follow the parfum guidelines and spray it at the correct distance, you’ll smell fabulous all day long, and there should be no oil-based issues.

The difference between men’s and women’s fragrances

There’s no hard and fast rule that says which fragrances should be worn by men or women, the different genders tend to prefer different scents. It’s often thought that women’s perfume is more thought-out and has more effort put into it. 

However, this isn’t the case. While men's fragrances tend to be woodier and more oceanic, it doesn't mean they don't have the same amount of thought put into them. Men’s fragrances are seriously considered to ensure they hit all the right notes and cater to a wide range of men, fragrance needs, and accommodate different occasions.

Layering men’s fragrances

Did you know that you can layer your fragrances from the shower to applying cologne? For example, here at Cremo, we can’t get enough of layering fragrances. Simply apply your shower gel as usual, and apply your fragrance afterwards – it enhances the scent and ensures you smell fantastic all day. We recommend layering your shower gel and fragrance with the same scent.  

Which is better?  

Both EDT and EDP have a time and a place. It’s best to utilise both depending on the occasion. Find your favourite eau de toilette for day-to-day use – embrace it for work, coffee with friends, and trips to the shops. 

Then, your best eau de parfum. This perfume can often be a little pricier than eau de toilette. This is often one of the main reasons for the separation when you wear either. Wear your EDP on weekends, holidays, dinners out, and any other occasion you can think of that deserves that long-lasting fragrance.

Understanding sillage

Sillage is the trail of a scent someone leaves after walking past wearing a parfum, eau de parfum, eau de toilette or eau de cologne. It originates from the French word for "wake," as in the wake of a ship in the water. Depending on the fragranced oil level in your perfume, some will have a much more noticeable sillage than others. 

As you can probably guess, if you’re wearing a parfum or eau de parfum, others will notice a deeper, heavier sillage as you stroll by. And if you’re wearing a lighter perfume such as eau de toilette or eau de cologne, this will be less obvious – but likely still be there.

Discover more with Cremo

Now that you know the differences between eau de parfum, eau de toilette and the other perfume types, browse our Men’s Uncommon Scents for the body. Be sure to check out our Beard Grooming collection, and the very best Shaving Products for Men.

If you're in the market to find your signature scent, see the Cremo Colognes For Men today.

Looking for more? We’ve got you covered. Discover the Men’s Grooming and Advice Blog today for all the guides, news, and tips you need to keep your grooming routine in the best shape. 

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