Quelle concentration de parfum choisir : eau de toilette, eau de parfum ou extrait?

We would naturally tend to use the term « parfum » to refer to anything scented. However, there are several concentrations available in the selective perfumery sector. But how do we distinguish between the different names for "extract", "eau de parfum", "eau de toilette", "eau de Cologne" and "eau parfumée"?

To understand this, we need to consider two aspects: fragrance concentration and the olfactory universe of "perfume". Indeed, beyond the richness of the fragrance, the nature of the notes that make up the accords are organized differently within the olfactory pyramid.

The orchestration of the « parfum »

In addition to variations in alcohol content and fragrance components, the different designations - "extrait de parfum", "eau de parfum", "eau de toilette", "eau de Cologne" and "eau parfumée" - are closely linked to the rhythms of evolution of the raw materials that compose them.

As dreamlike as the world of perfumery may be, the creation of a fragrance is based on a subtle methodology. Whatever the nature of the "perfume", it is the result of a precise architecture that enables it to achieve a perfect balance: the olfactory pyramid.

The freshest notes are naturally positioned at the top of the composition. The heart notes then develop into a trail, gradually revealing the base notes, the imprint and foundation of the fragrance creation.

The tip of the pyramid, a combination of essences immediately perceptible on first spraying, is organized around citrus fruits (lemon, mandarin, grapefruit, bergamot), aromatic accords (anise, lavender, thyme, rosemary) and melt-in-your-mouth fruits such as mango and watermelon.

The heart determines the fragrance's roundness and personality with its floral notes (jasmine, ylang ylang, rose, lilac, magnolia...), and herbaceous, fruity or spicy accords (nutmeg, cinnamon, saffron...).

Finally, because of their tenacity, woody accords and balsamic notes (tonka bean, vanilla, heliotrope, myrrh, benzoin, incense and amber) will last longer, impregnating the heart notes with their signature.

 

 

The more predominant the base notes are in the architecture of the fragrance, the better the hold. The more top notes dominate the overall composition, the more evanescent the fragrance.

Extract: a fragrant quintessence

 

The ultimate luxury in women's perfumery, parfum extract is the jewel a woman allows herself to be gifted. It reflects the initial work of the Master Perfumer, delivering an anthology of the noblest raw materials.

Like a precious elixir, the extract is sumptuously presented in a case. A few drops are all it takes to leave a fragrant imprint that can last for days. Composed of 50% base notes, this concentration is distinguished by its almost carnal sensuality and long-lasting hold.

Perfuming with extrait requires a very special gesture. The essence is applied directly to the skin at pulse points. A few drops are all it takes to exalt a trail and leave a lasting impression.

Some women reserve it for the evening, believing that this nectar enhances any more exceptional beauty than usual. Others wear it every day like a talisman with mysterious virtues, the secret of which only they know...

 

 

 

Distinguishing between eau de toilette and eau de parfum

The most popular concentrations in perfumery are eau de toilette and eau de parfum.. But how do you tell the difference between these two great classics?

As mentioned above, the nuance lies not only in the concentration of the fragrance, but also in the density of its components within the olfactory pyramid.

More opulent than eau de toilette, eau de parfum holds a predominant place in the feminine universe, earning its place among masculine spirits. Developed as a heart note, it exhales a trail, evolving and warming with each passing hour.

Ideal at the start of the day or when the mood is for lighter scents, the eau de toilette settles into a cloud with a controlled gesture. This concentration is intended for more discreet, even sparkling fragrances, to be built more around the top notes.

Some people recommend wearing an eau de toilette during the day for everyday activities, while preferring an eau de parfum for the evening.

 

Eau fraîche and eau de Cologne: summer essentials!

Eau fraîche, or eau parfuméehas long been developed around strictly acidic notes. Today, as the lightest concentration in perfumery, it is available in more floral and fruity nuances than in the past. Always fleeting, these eaux nonetheless lose their shyness to become a fully-fledged way of perfuming oneself as soon as the warm weather arrives.

Even more invigorating, the same eau de Cologne, which was once said to have medicinal virtues, can be used by both men and women. Invigorating from the very first sprays, these waters then become perceptible to anyone who gets close enough.

Traditionally, Cologne is built around essential oils of bergamot and other citrus fruits, as well as aromatics and orange blossom. Volatile and predestined for morning cleansing, this concentration allows wearers to superimpose their favorite eau de toilette or eau de parfum.

 

 

 

Perfume extracts, eau de parfum, eau de toilette and eaux légères, these different intensities are appreciated according to the way you want to make your "perfume" your own, and the notes that instinctively attract you.

 

Sparkling notes tend to prevail in eaux de toilette, perfumes and colognes, while "rounder" notes are exalted in sillage (heart notes) with eaux de parfums. Finally, warm "base" accords are emphasized in concentrated extracts.

To go even further, discover how to choose a perfume for a woman, a man, a teenager or a child, and lift the curtain on the fragrances worn by stars !