The Differences Between Perfume, Eau De Parfum, Eau De Toillette and Body Splash

Perfume, eau de parfum, or eau de toilette. There are many types of fragrances, but what exactly is the difference between one and another? And why is perfume so cheap, while products like body splash are so affordable? The key difference is how much perfume concentrate each contains. The higher the percentage of concentrate, the longer the scent lasts (and the higher the price).

Perfume is the most potent and most expensive of these products. It may also be called 'extract' or 'extrait perfume', and contains anywhere from 15 to 40% perfume concentrate. Because of the high potency, a perfume's fragrance will last longer and require less application than the other products.

Eau de parfum is the second most potent. It is very popular and common. Containing 7 to 15% concentrate, eau de parfum's scent lasts a long time and is less costly than perfume.

Eau de toilette, or EDT, is less potent with 1 to 6% concentrate. The scent is therefore light and does not last as long as the above mentioned fragrances. EDT is a "middle of the road" option, providing longer lasting scent than body splash, yet is more affordable than perfume.

Eau de cologne can be confused with eau de toilette; however, it is different. This product began as a fragrance combined with citrus oils. It was often used by Napoleon. A modern version of this eau de cologne is known as eau fraiche.

Body splash has very little perfume concentrate. Because it is not very potent, the fragrance will not last very long, and may have to be applied several times a day. It is also the most affordable of the various fragrances.

All of these products contain alcohol. The higher the perfume concentrate, the less the alcohol. Alcohol allows the fragrance to emanate, so that those around you can actually smell it.

Although potency greatly affects how long fragrance will last when worn, a person's own skin will play a role as well. Generally, dry skin does not hold fragrance very long. Conversely, oily skin holds fragrance very well. Also, one's PH level (acidity level) will slightly affect how skin interacts with fragrance.

So, there is a difference between perfume, eau de parfum, eau de toilette, and body splash. This is one of those cases where you get what you pay for - perfume may be expensive but a little will go a longer way than the same amount of body splash.

Sources:
http://ask.yahoo.com/20030226.html
http://www.4perfumeinfo.com/faq.html
http://www.spao-body.com/faq.html
http://perfumes.glooks.com/perfumes/fragrance_faq.asp