The Strongest Perdumea Scents: Sprays And Colognes

When it comes to fragrances, the strongest option is often considered to be pure perfume or 'parfum'. This concentration features a high percentage of aromatic compounds, typically ranging from 15% to 30%, and sometimes even reaching 40%. The higher concentration of fragrance oils in parfum means it tends to be longer-lasting on the skin, requiring less frequent application. However, due to the higher concentration of oils, parfum is often more expensive than other fragrance options.

Parfum/Extrait de Parfum

The higher concentration of oils in parfum/extrait de parfum also allows for a more complex formula with more heart and middle notes. The extra concentration also means that the perfume will be heavier and oilier. This type of perfume is usually sold in splash bottles/flacons to avoid losing precious drops.

Eau de Parfum

The higher concentration of perfume oil in Eau de Parfum means that it is more intense and longer-lasting than other types of fragrances. It is also a versatile scent, suitable for both day and night, and all seasons.

The longevity of an Eau de Parfum means that it often provides the best value for money. It is a good choice for those who don't want to have to reapply their fragrance throughout the day.

When choosing an Eau de Parfum, it is important to consider the context and your budget. While an Eau de Parfum may be more affordable than a parfum, it is still more expensive than an eau de toilette or eau de cologne. It is also important to note that different concentrations may have differing notes, and not simply be weaker or stronger. Therefore, when you find a fragrance you like, it is recommended to explore it in all its different concentrations before deciding on your favourite.

Eau de Toilette

The term 'Eau de Toilette' comes from the French phrase "faire sa toilette", which means "getting ready". In modern perfumery, Eau de Toilette has a weaker concentration of fragrance than perfume (Eau de Parfum) but more than cologne (Eau de Cologne). Eau de Toilette is a popular type of fragrance, often in spray bottles, and is much more affordable than Eau de Parfum. It is typically composed of alcohol and various volatile oils.

In terms of scent families, fragrances are often categorised into four main types: warm, woody, oriental, and fresh. Fresh fragrances usually comprise citrus, water, and green notes, creating a refreshing, zesty, and vibrant smell. Citrus-based fragrances typically include lemon, mandarin, and bergamot, while water fragrances may feature aquatic notes like sea spray. Fresh green fragrances often include herbal and leafy scents for a crisp, uplifting aroma.

Oriental fragrances are warm, sweet, and sometimes spicy. This luxurious fragrance family includes floral oriental, soft oriental, and woody oriental. Oriental perfumes and aftershaves are rich and sensual, often featuring interesting notes such as cardamom, cinnamon, and vanilla, combined with jasmine, orchid, or orange blossom.

Woody fragrances, a warm and captivating scent family, are often a popular choice for aftershaves. They use wood-based scents like cedarwood, sandalwood, vetiver, and amber, perfect for evening wear. Woody fragrances can be further divided into mossy woods, with an earthy and sweet undertone, and dry woods, which have a smoky and leathery aroma.

Lastly, floral fragrances are one of the most popular and broadest families. Any fragrance with a sweet and flowery scent falls into this category, using notes such as roses, jasmine, lilies, and peonies. Floral fragrances can range from light and delicate to more complex and intense.

Eau de Cologne

In contemporary American English usage, the term "cologne" has become a generic term for perfumes marketed toward men. It may also signify a less concentrated, more affordable version of a popular perfume.

The original Eau de Cologne is a spirit-citrus perfume. In 1708, Farina wrote to his brother Jean Baptiste:

> "I have found a fragrance that reminds me of an Italian spring morning, of mountain daffodils and orange blossoms after the rain."

He named his fragrance Eau de Cologne, in honour of his new hometown.

Farina's Eau de Cologne was used only as a perfume and was delivered to nearly all royal houses in Europe. A single vial of this aqua mirabilis (Latin for miracle water) cost half the annual salary of a civil servant. When free trade was established in Cologne by the French in 1797, the success of Eau de Cologne prompted countless other businessmen to sell their own fragrances under the same name.

In the 18th century, before medical regulations existed, cologne acquired a medical reputation with a thousand virtues. Doctors of the time even encouraged their patients to use this water to cure various ailments, for their hygiene, or to drink it to maintain good health.

In 1806, Jean Marie Joseph Farina, a great-grand-nephew of Giovanni Maria Farina, opened a perfumery business in Paris that was later sold to Roger & Gallet. That company now owns the rights to Eau de Cologne extra vieille, in contrast to the Original Eau de Cologne from Cologne.

Aftershave/Eau Fraîche

Aftershave is a skincare product designed to soothe and moisturize the skin after shaving. The purpose of aftershave is to help reduce irritation and discomfort caused by shaving, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and hydrated. Aftershaves come in various forms, including lotion, gel, cream, and balm, each offering unique benefits and catering to different preferences and skin types.

Aftershave lotion provides hydration to the skin while soothing irritation caused by shaving. Aftershave gels have a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making them suitable for individuals with oily or combination skin. Aftershave creams offer deep hydration and nourishment and are thicker than lotions, providing a luxurious feel without feeling heavy or greasy. Aftershave balms are rich in emollients and soothing ingredients, providing long-lasting comfort and nourishment, making them ideal for individuals with sensitive or dry skin.

When choosing an aftershave, consider your skin type, preferences, and any specific concerns. Experimenting with different forms of aftershaves can help you find the perfect product that suits your needs and enhances your shaving experience.

Eau Fraîche, meaning 'fresh water' in French, is a type of fragrance with a very low concentration of perfume oils, typically between 1-3%. These scents are often fresh and crisp, with bright notes, and are perfect for those who want a subtle fragrance that is not too loud or long-lasting. They are ideal for those who are sensitive to stronger fragrances or simply prefer a more delicate scent.

Some popular options for Eau Fraîche include Yves Saint Laurent Y Eau Fraiche, with notes of crisp lemon, fresh geranium, and cedarwood; Versace Man Eau Fraiche, a sexy and strong blend with lemon, wood, musk, and amber notes; and Lacoste L.12.12 Eau Fraiche Pour Lui, featuring crisp limoncello and aquatic notes.

Whether you choose a traditional aftershave or opt for an Eau Fraîche, these products can help enhance your shaving routine, providing soothing and moisturizing benefits while also offering a subtle fragrance to leave you feeling refreshed and confident.

Frequently asked questions