Did you know that the composition of your fragrance can make a huge difference? That’s right, scent strength and longevity are impacted by formula. With this in mind, it’s only natural to wonder ‘what is perfume made of?’
Our experts are here to help demystify your bottle’s ingredients list and help you make the right choice when you’re next out sampling and shopping.
Essentially, the amount of time your fragrance lasts depends on the amount of perfume oil essence in it. The higher the percentage of perfume oils, the longer the scent lasts and the less you, therefore, need to apply.
The most high-strength fragrance is . . .
Perfume – The Most Concentrated Fragrance Option
Perfume (often called Parfum) is the strongest, longest-lasting option on the market. It’s made of between 20% and 30% perfume essence, with the remainder being alcohol. Denatured alcohol is normally used for safety reasons, so it can’t be drunk. Thanks to its intensity, it will typically last for up to 6 hours depending on your skin type.
Perfume is generally more expensive than most other options. It can cost over £100 for just a 15ml bottle, so some people simply can’t afford to buy it.
Eau De Parfum
Next in order of potency is Eau de Parfum (EDP), this is lighter than its more potent alternative and has between 15% and 20% concentration of perfume oil, a similar amount of alcohol to Parfum but the remainder of the composition is water (which is why it is called Eau). Typically, it will last about 3 to 5 hours.
Eau De Toilette
With more water and even less oil is Eau De Toilette (EDT). This only normally has a 5% to 15% concentration of essence, lasts around 2 to 4 hours.
Now you know about the different strengths of fragrances, you will be better informed when you next purchase your perfumes.