6 Types of Perfumes You Can’t Afford to Miss Out On!

types of perfumes

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From floral scents to woody fragrances and everything in between, let’s dive into the world of perfumes and explores the many varieties available.

Are you planning to add some new perfumes to your closet? If yes, then let me tell you one thing- it is necessary to have an in-depth knowledge of perfume so that you can make the most out of it. There are different kinds of perfumes. And if you wish to smell like a dream, then babe, you must know about each one of them. 

From pros and cons to concentrations, from usage to maintaining the fragrance, I will spill the beans on every minute detail related to perfume. 

Don’t worry! There’s nothing to get overwhelmed about! 

Your girl will walk you through the different categories of perfumes and help you learn about the intricacies of the world of perfume. 

Without much ado, let’s just dive deep into the “aromatic” details!

What is a Perfume?

Perfume or Parfum is a blend of ingredients that exude a specific smell. You can take it this way – perfume is nothing but the intensity of any fragrance. The strength of any fragrance is determined by the amount of solvent which is mixed with different perfume oils. 

Different Types of Perfumes You Must Know About!

different types of perfumes

Let’s now understand each type of perfume closely!

1. Parfum (Perfume)

Parfum is the French variant of the term “Perfume” and is also known as pure perfume or Extrat de Parfum. You will be glad to know that parfum has the highest fragrance concentration of about 20% to 30%. And hence, it inclines toward the pricey side! You just need to spray a minimal amount as it does not dry out and stays on the skin. Its oily and heavy consistency allows the fragrance to linger on for upto 12+ hours. 

PROS:

  1. Parfums contain a very small percentage of alcohol. So, it is absolutely safe to use on your skin, even if you have a sensitive skin type.
  2. Because of the higher concentration of fragrance oil, just one spray is enough to keep you smelling good throughout the day.
  3. Ever heard of pheromones? Basically, these are some sort of secretions that attract your partner through their distinct scent. Rich in pheromones, perfumes can serve as an aphrodisiac if you are in the mood to get naughty with your partner! Just spray it and turn things dirty between the sheets 🥵
  4. Parfum can lift your mood in no time. It is capable of rendering that much-needed calming vibe on your exhausted mind. Aromatherapy includes leveraging different types of soothing parfum to offer ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation to your mind.

CONS:

  1. Ethyl alcohol is used to create a base for most parfums. Thus, they can be extremely inflammable and hence, a bit risky for you.
  2. Ruling out the chances of allergies completely is not possible.
  3. You don’t really get to know about the ingredients that are being used to manufacture a parfum.
  4. Some of the fanciest parfums are not cruelty-free. Their ingredients are often tested on animals. Some of the ingredients are even derived from animals directly.
  5. Parfums are quite expensive.

2. Eau de Parfum

types of perfumes

Looking for something that you can wear for a date or a party? Then go for Eau de Parfum or EDP. The fragrance oil concentration in Eau de Parfum is about 15% to 20%. Hence, the fragrance can last as long as 8 to 12 hours. The alcohol and water content in Eau de Parfum is comparatively higher when it comes to parfum. 

PROS:

  1. Eau de Parfum is the perfect choice for those who seek a strong scent, as it has a 15% to 20% concentration of fragrance oil. 
  2. When you compare it to parfum, an EDP will seem more pocket-friendly. 
  3. You can choose from a plethora of options as most of the brands prefer dealing in Eau de Parfum.
  4. It is safe to spray on clothes and your hair.

CONS:

  1. Eau de Parfum can stain your satin fabric.
  2. If you have health issues such as eye irritations, sinus, throat infection or any respiratory organ-related condition, then Eau de Parfum can trigger your problems.
  3. Eau de Parfum does not last long in winter as it fades away easily from your dehydrated skin.
  4. Eau de Parfum can irritate your skin as it contains strong chemicals.

3. Eau de Toilette (EDT)

types of perfumes

Eau de Toilette, or EDT, has coined its name from the French phrase “faira sa toilette,” which means “to get ready.” It is the most common type of perfume that we can access quite easily. The concentration of essential oil in Eau de Toilette is around 5% to 15%.

It has quite a higher content of water and alcohol, and thus, it evaporates and fades away from your skin quite fast. You can expect it to last for about 3 to 4 hours. Generally, Eau de Toilettes come in spray bottles. These are perfect for summer seasons and can be used every day. 

PROS:

  1. EDT or Eau de Toilette is quite affordable and thus easily accessible.
  2. Because of less pungency, Eau de Toilette is perfect for the summer season. Also, they are great for those who have allergies.
  3. Want something to spray while going to college or the workplace? Try Eau de Toilette, as it is less intense.

CONS:

  1. Eau de Toilett may trigger issues like migraine, allergies and asthma. It can also affect your sinusitis conditions.
  2. These perfumes require re-application every 3 hours or so. 
  3. The build-up of Eau de Toilette on your skin for a longer duration can aggravate health conditions. 

On that note, I’ve got some reallllyyyyy juicy Zara perfume dupes I cannot get enough of!!

4. Eau de Cologne (EDC)

EDC, or Eau de Cologne, is one of the lightest categories of perfumes, and its essential oil concentration is about 2% to 4%. Colognes are available in large bottles as you have re-apply them now and again. They last for just 1 to 2 hours. But fret not, as Eau de Colognes or EDCs tend to be quite budget-friendly.

PROS:

  1. Eau de Colognes tend to be light and fresh. Users generally prefer to go with the citrus-laden options, especially in the summer seasons.
  2. They are inexpensive.
  3. Apply an Eau de Colognes boosts your confidence and gives you that well-groomed vibe.

CONS:

  1. It has an extremely high alcohol content. So, it is not at all safe for those who have sensitive skin types.
  2. Because of high alcohol concentration, Eau de Colognes or EDCs can dry out your skin.
  3. You will have to re-apply it multiple times a day as the fragrance can linger on for a maximum of 2 hours.
  4. The petrochemical ingredients used in making Eau de Colognes can harm your health and also impact your environment negatively.
  5. Eau de Colognes are generally male-centric, and female Eau de Colognes are quite rare. So, fragrances are associated with masculine inclination.

I know, I know, it’s a bit confusing but if you still need more info on what the heck is the difference between cologne and perfume, you’ve got a nice article right here!

5. Eau Fraiche

Eau Fraiche means fresh water, and it is the main ingredient which is used to manufacture this category of perfume. It has a poor concentration of essential oils (about 1% to 3%) and lasts for just 1 to 2 hours. It has a mild and subtle fragrance and is used during a quick freshening-up session. 

PROS:

  1. Eau Fraiche is highly affordable.
  2. It is made using water, and the alcohol content is quite less. So, Eau Fraiche is quite safe for your sensitive skin.
  3. If you wish to keep allergies and irritations at bay, then Eau Fraiche is your best shot.
  4. Venturing into the world of perfumes? Start with Eau Fraiche, as it is best for beginners.
  5. Eau Fraiche requires lots of top-ups. You have to keep buying it again and again.
  6. If you are looking for something intense and long-term, then Eau Fraiche will disappoint you. 

6. Perfume oils

types of perfumes

Extracted from woods, spices and flowers, these essential oils are mixed with carrier oils. They are manufactured using only an oil base. Water or alcohol is not used to create this unique blend. The concentration of essential oil in perfume oils is around 20%. 

You need to just rub it onto your skin, and voila! You will smell like a dream for about eight to twelve hours straight.

PROS:

  1. Looking for something highly fragrant? Go for perfume oils as they have at least 10 times more concentration of essential oils as compared to other categories of perfumes. 
  2. Although they smell really good and also last long, yet they are feasible in nature.
  3. Since there is 0% alcohol used in making perfume oils, they are completely safe for those with sensitive skin.
  4. They do not trigger any kind of health conditions as chemical ingredients are not used in manufacturing perfume oils.

CONS:

  1. Certain fragrances can be too strong and hence harmful if used in large quantities in one go.

Fragrance and Perfume – Are They the Same Thing?

No darling, they are NOT!

Although we generally use these two terms interchangeably, but they are not at all the same. Perfume, as I mentioned earlier, is just the intensity of any fragrance.

On the other hand, the fragrance is the scent you smell. There are different types of fragrances or scents, about which I will discuss in the upcoming sections. 

Types of fragrances/scents you can add to your closet

1. Fresh

What comes to your mind when you read the word “Fresh?” I am sure you will start imagining something zesty and uplifting! Basically, fresh fragrances include green, citrus and water notes. They have the ability to rejuvenate your mind in no time.

While the water-based fragrances are made using aquatic notes, the citrus ones include notes of mandarin, lemon and bergamot. And green fragrances are associated with balmy, herbal scents.

2. Floral

Floral fragrances are quite common. Next time you inhale any fragrance that feels similar to a flower, know that it belongs to the floral category. It is one of those fragrances that you generally associate with romantic and sweet scents.

Floral fragrances for men include notes like lavender and blossom. For women, the notes may include peony, lily, rose or jasmine. Floral fragrances can be subtle and light as well as strong and intense. 

3. Oriental

Looking for something warm and enriching? Then oriental fragrances can be ideal for you. Made out of spices like cloves, pepper, cinnamon and cardamom, they bring out that exotic vibe effortlessly. There is something really sensual about oriental fragrances. You will often find scents like musk, sandalwood and amber lingering on. The depth of these fragrances makes them a plush choice. 

4. Woody

Woody fragrances are often preferred by men as aftershaves or by women for their evening outings. They, too, have this element of warmth associated and are made using wood-based scents such as sandalwood, cedarwood, amber, oakmoss, patchouli etc. These fragrances are quite calming because of their earthy and balmy notes.

Here’s how to choose the right perfume for yourself!

6 Types of Perfumes You Can’t Afford to Miss Out On!

Now that you know all about different types of perfumes and fragrances, I will share a few hacks and tricks here so that you can get yourself the right perfume without any confusion.

1. Always try sample fragrances before making the final choice

Most of the popular brands come with miniature sample bottles. Don’t forget to sample these fragrances mindfully. The correct way to sample a perfume or fragrance is to spray it on your pulse point. The fragrance will get developed to its fullest potential because of the natural heat of your skin.

Make sure you do not rub in the perfume between your wrists; otherwise, it will fade away, and you won’t be able to sample the fragrance correctly.

2. Know your body chemistry

By body chemistry, I mean your own natural fragrance that gets intertwined with the fragrance you want to buy. Different levels of hormones as well as your diet can impact your own body fragrance. Also, the surroundings where you are wearing the fragrance also matter.

So, if possible, I would suggest you sample the fragrance and leave it on for a couple of hours to understand whether or not it complements your body chemistry. 

3. Think of the scents that appeal to your mind

Think of different scents you feel drawn towards. For instance, consider those lotions, soaps, scented candles, etc., to guide yourself while choosing a fragrance.

4. Trust your gut feeling

Always rely on your preferences and style over trends. Choose a perfume because you love it and not because that popular actress influences you to buy that product.

Wrapping Up types of perfumes!

I personally can’t do without my favorite perfumes and fragrances. Smelling good is one of my topmost priorities, and I feel you should do the same! Exuding a pleasant fragrance indeed contributes a lot towards making your personality an impactful one. 

Perfumes and fragrances are available easily in drugstores as well as premium outlets. Based on your preferences and guided by this article, I am sure you will be able to make a well-informed choice. 

So, get a few dreamiest perfumes that cater to your personality and style, and witness magic in the air for real!

See ya’ll soon!

Toodles!

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