What is the difference between parfum, eau de perfume, eau de toilette and and eau de cologne?

All the four compositions are a mixture of fragrant essential oils (aroma compounds) and solvents. However the concentration, intensity and longevity differs, based on the percentage of aromatic compounds added to the solvents.

Here’s how you can distinguish between the variants!

Parfum

Parfum is known as a perfume extract. It’s a pure perfume that uses 15% to 40% of aromatic compounds or oils. Hence the intensity and longevity is the strongest in the category.

Eau de Parfum

Eau de parfum in comparison to parfum has a lower concentration level. It is a mixture of about 10% to 20% perfume oils mixed with alcohol. It has a strong fragrance that lasts longer.

Eau de Toilette

As a lightly scented cologne, it is used as a skin refresher. Described as an aromatic water, it consists of 60% to 80% alcohol mixed with 5 to 15% perfume oils. Its intensity is weaker than eau de parfum, but stronger than eau de cologne.

Eau de Cologne

It is a blend of extracts, alcohol and water. The lightest fragrance in the category, eau del cologne uses only 2% to 5% essential oils. Its intensity and longevity is the lowest in the category.