6 Different Types Of Perfumes That Belong In Your Vanity

The French way of saying 'perfume' is also referred to as Extrait De Parfum or pure perfume. Out of all the types, parfum is known to have the highest fragrance concentration, which basically means that the perfume contains less alcohol, and more essential oils. And since the concoction contains 20% to 30% of concentrate, it tends to linger on your skin for a good 12 plus hours with more of a pungent smell. 

Pros: 

- Tends to last all day due to less alcohol content 

- They are suitable for folks with super sensitive skin 

- Richer in pheromones, making them an aphrodisiac

Cons: 

- The ingredients are mostly undisclosed 

- Being mixed with ethyl alcohol, makes them super flammable 

If you're looking for a scent that can stay on your skin all day long, then choosing an Eau de Parfum is your best bet. It contains 15% to 20% pure perfume essence, with the concentrated formula resulting in a scent that can linger on the skin for hours making it perfect if you're aiming to have your own 'signature' scent. It can typically be strong but not on the same pungency level as parfum, making it perfect for events and gatherings. And while it’s not as expensive as parfum, it’s still one of the pricier types. However, since it is so potent, re-application isn't required as much, making it worth your buck.

Pros: 

- Tend to be more affordable than parfumes 

- More choices since all perfumes brands make EdPs. 

Cons: 

- Shorter life-span on dry skin 

- May cause respiratory issues along with affecting sinuses and throat 

If you're someone who leans more towards subtle scents that are light and fresh, then Eau de Toilette is what you need. This type pf perfume is preferred for its daytime wear with a concentration of around 5% to 15% pure perfume essence. And since it is less concentrated, its longevity also tends to be lesser compared to parfums and EDPs. However, EDTs are great to keep as your day-wear perfumes, where you can also opt for cheaper alternatives. 

Pros: 

- More affordable compared to parfumes and EDPs

- Less stronger scent, which makes it great for folks who are sensitive to strong scents 

Cons: 

- Needs constant re-application, which means more use of product 

When it comes to comparing an Eau de Cologne with a parfum, there's a huge gap in terms of the essential oil content. It is typically marketed to men, mainly because of its high alcohol content, which makes it not very suitable for high-sensitivity skin (something that's believed women have more compared to men). It has a perfume concentration of only 2% to 4% and is sold in large bottles since its applied more frequently. It tends to last only two-odd hours on the skin, hence people tend to dab some on their clothes as well. But due to its lack in longevity, it is a much cheaper alternative. 

Pros: 

- They tend to be much lighter and refreshing with citrus notes that can be worn anytime. It’s a contrast to stronger French perfumes.

Cons: 

- Can be super harsh on the skin due to the alcohol 

- Not many unisex options 

Eau Fraiche is a type of perfume that contains the lowest concentration of only 3%, making it last about two-odd hours or so. Because of the 1% to 3% concentration of essential oils, it is also more affordable. And since most of them have water instead of alcohol, it is perfect and best suited for sensitive and dry skin. Further, Eau Fraiche is light, airy, and perfect for folks who like subtle scents. 

Pros: 

- Most affordable type of perfume 

- Less alcohol content means, kinder on skin 

Cons: 

- Lasts only a couple hours 

- It's lightness means its not very suitable for night events 

Perfumes oils are purely oil-based perfumes with the essential oil concentration being high at about 20%. What makes perfume oils different is that instead of carriers like water and alcohol, oils like jojoba oil is mixed in with the essential oil. Perfume oils are also known to be naturally extracted from flowers, woods, and spices to make a super potent scent that can last up to 12 hours. and since it is heavy in texture, it cannot be sprayed, and hence is usually rubbed onto the pulse points on your body–wrist, inner elbow, and behind the ears. 

Pros: 

- No water or alcohol makes it best for dry skin 

- Super concentrated 

Cons:

- One could be allergic to the carrier oil 

Expert's guide to buying perfume online.