The Ultimate Guide To Wearing Edt Colognes

EDT, or Eau de Toilette, is a popular fragrance type that is perfect for everyday wear. It is a softer, more subtle scent than Eau de Parfum, containing between 5-15% of the aromatic essence used to create the fragrance. The French phrase Eau de Toilette refers to the scented water you spritz on your body as you prepare for your day. The phrase comes from the French expression faire sa toilette, which means getting ready for the day. EDT is typically applied to the pulse points on the body, such as the wrists, neck, and behind the ears, and is suitable for both men and women.

How to apply EDT to your skin

EDT, or Eau de Toilette, is a popular fragrance type that is perfect for everyday wear. It is softer and more subtly fragranced than Eau de Parfum, so it won't be too overpowering. It usually contains between 5% and 15% of the aromatic essence used to make up the scent.

To apply EDT to your skin, hold the bottle around 5 inches away and spray once or twice around your neck, then follow up with a few spritzes on your wrists. These 'pulse points' are where the blood vessels are closer to the skin, so your skin is warmer and the scent is intensified. You can also apply EDT to the pulse points behind your ears, or on your inner elbows.

EDT is best applied to clean, dry skin, as the oils in the fragrance will mix with the natural oils on your skin to create a unique scent. Applying EDT to moisturised skin can help to extend the life of the fragrance, as the moisture will help to lock in the scent.

EDT typically lasts around three to four hours on the skin, so you may want to carry your bottle with you for a perfume touch-up during the day.

How to store EDT for later use

To store EDT for later use, follow these guidelines to ensure its longevity and effectiveness:

Keep it cool and dark: Store your EDT in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a closet or drawer. Avoid exposing the bottle to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Sunlight and heat can cause the fragrance to deteriorate and lose its scent over time.

Original packaging: Whenever possible, keep the EDT in its original box or packaging. This helps to protect the bottle from dust and light exposure. The box also provides important information about the fragrance, such as the batch number and expiration date.

Upright position: Always store the EDT bottle in an upright position. This helps to prevent leakage and ensures that the spray nozzle does not become clogged. If the bottle has a cap, make sure to secure it tightly after each use.

Avoid exposure to oxygen: Minimize exposure to oxygen by closing the bottle tightly after each use. Oxygen can cause the fragrance to oxidize and change its scent over time.

Spray nozzle care: Wipe the spray nozzle with a clean, dry cloth after each use to remove any residue or buildup. This helps to prevent blockages and ensures that the EDT sprays effectively each time.

Optimal temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature when storing your EDT. Ideally, store it at room temperature or slightly cooler. Avoid storing it in places with fluctuating temperatures, such as bathrooms, as this can affect the fragrance's stability.

Shelf life: EDT typically has a longer shelf life than other fragrances, such as Eau de Parfum (EDP). It can be stored indefinitely, but its scent may start to fade after a few years. To ensure optimal freshness and potency, use it within three to five years of purchase.

Expiration signs: Keep an eye out for signs of expiration or deterioration. If the colour of the EDT changes or it develops a strange odour, discard it immediately. Additionally, if the spray nozzle becomes clogged or the EDT separates into layers, these are indications that the fragrance has expired.

Storing your EDT properly will help maintain its quality and extend its usability. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your favourite fragrance for longer and make the most of your purchase.

How much EDT should you apply

The amount of Eau de Toilette (EDT) you should apply depends on a few factors, including your personal preference, the strength of the fragrance, and the desired longevity. Here are some guidelines and tips to help you determine how much EDT to apply:

• Fragrance Concentration: EDT typically contains between 5% to 15% fragrance oils or aromatic essence. It is less concentrated than Eau de Parfum (EDP) but stronger than Eau de Cologne (EDC). Due to its lower concentration, you may need to apply a slightly larger amount of EDT compared to EDP for the same level of scent projection.
• Pulse Points: Apply EDT to your pulse points, such as your wrists, neck, behind your ears, and the inside of your elbows. These areas emit more heat, which helps to activate and diffuse the fragrance. One to two sprays on each pulse point should be sufficient.
• Longevity: EDT typically lasts between three to six hours on the skin, depending on the formula, concentration, and your skin type. If you desire longer-lasting fragrance, consider applying a small amount of unscented moisturiser or lotion to your pulse points before spraying the EDT. The moisture will help lock in the scent and extend its longevity.
• Layering: You can also layer your EDT with other scented products, such as applying a moisturiser or lotion with a similar or complementary scent before or after spraying the EDT. This can help enhance and prolong the fragrance.
• Application Technique: Hold the bottle approximately 5 inches away from your skin when applying. Avoid excessive friction or rubbing of the wrists after application, as this can alter the olfactory composition and reduce the fragrance's longevity.
• Intensity: EDT is generally softer and more subtle than EDP. It is designed for everyday wear and is perfect when you want your signature scent to be noticeable but not overpowering. If you prefer a stronger scent, you may need to apply a slightly larger amount of EDT or consider using an EDP.
• Sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin or are sensitive to strong scents, opt for a lighter application of EDT. You can always reapply if needed, and EDT is suitable for liberal application throughout the day.
• Environment: Consider your surroundings and the people around you when determining how much EDT to apply. Avoid applying too much, as it can be overwhelming and potentially trigger headaches or allergies in some individuals.
• Trial and Error: Finding the right amount of EDT to apply is a personal preference and may involve some experimentation. Try different application techniques, such as spraying versus dabbing, and adjust the number of sprays or the distance from the skin to find the optimal intensity and longevity for your needs.
• Storage: Keep your EDT in a cool, dry place, and consider purchasing a smaller travel-sized bottle to carry in your handbag for touch-ups throughout the day.

In summary, the amount of EDT you should apply depends on your personal preference, the strength of the fragrance, and how long you want it to last. Start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed until you find the right balance for your desired scent projection and longevity. Remember to apply to pulse points, consider layering with other scented products, and reapply throughout the day as needed.

How long does EDT last

The longevity of a fragrance depends on its concentration of perfume oil. EDT, or Eau de Toilette, typically contains between 5% and 15% perfume oil. This concentration level means that EDT fragrances usually last around 4 to 7 hours, although some sources state that they last for up to 6 hours or even 10 hours when sprayed on clothes. EDT fragrances are designed to be worn every day, whether you're at the office, at home, or out and about.

In comparison to other fragrances, EDT has a lower concentration of perfume oil than EDP, or Eau de Parfum, which contains between 10% and 20% perfume oil and can last up to 8 hours. EDT also has a higher concentration of perfume oil than Eau de Cologne (EDC) and Eau Fraiche, which contain approximately 2% to 4% and 1% to 3% perfume oil, respectively, and typically last for up to 2 or 3 hours.

The longevity of a fragrance can vary depending on the wearer and the environment. For example, perfumes tend to last longer on clothes, and factors such as skin type and temperature can also affect how long a fragrance lasts.

The difference between EDT and other fragrances

The strength of a fragrance is determined by the amount of perfume oil it contains. The more oil, the stronger the scent and the longer it will last. The concentration of oil in Eau de Toilette (EDT) is between 5% and 15%, making it a lighter fragrance than Eau de Parfum (EDP), which contains between 10% and 20% oil. EDT fragrances are cheaper than EDP and are typically favoured for everyday wear, lasting around 4 to 7 hours. In contrast, EDP fragrances are often reserved for special occasions and can last up to 8 hours.

For even lighter options, Eau de Cologne (EDC) contains around 2% to 4% oil, while Eau Fraiche is the lightest fragrance with only 1% to 3% oil concentration. These fragrances are cheaper than EDT and EDP and usually last for up to 2 hours on the skin.

While EDT is the most famous type of fragrance due to its affordability and longevity, EDP is becoming increasingly popular, especially among men, as more options become available. Ultimately, the choice between EDT and other fragrances depends on personal preference, the desired longevity, and the occasion for which the fragrance is being worn.

Frequently asked questions