Understanding Scents: Cologne, Aftershave, And Perfume Explained

The world of fragrances can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to men's fragrances. The terms cologne, aftershave, eau de toilette, and eau de parfum are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences. Firstly, cologne and aftershave are typically the weakest in strength when it comes to fragrance concentration. Aftershave is meant to be used after shaving to soothe and disinfect the skin, while cologne is a lightly scented fragrance that only lasts a few hours. On the other hand, eau de toilette and eau de parfum have higher concentrations of fragrance oils, making them stronger and longer-lasting. These terms can vary depending on location, with cologne being the more commonly used term for men's fragrances in some regions, while aftershave is more common in others. Ultimately, the most important thing is to find the perfect fragrance that suits your preferences and skin type, without getting too caught up in the technical details.

Aftershave is a skincare product used after shaving, with a maximum of 3% perfume oil

Aftershave formulations typically contain three main components: astringents, such as witch hazel, to tighten pores and reduce redness; fragrances from essential oils, like lavender, sandalwood, and citrus oils, to add a pleasant scent; and moisturisers, such as glycerin, to hydrate the skin. Other ingredients include alcohol, which acts as a powerful astringent, and aloe vera, which has soothing and cooling properties.

Aftershave is applied by gently patting or massaging a small amount onto damp, freshly shaved skin. It is an essential step in a shaving routine, as it helps to calm any irritation and provides a hygienic way to end the shaving experience.

Aftershave is often used interchangeably with cologne or fragrance, but its primary function is skincare rather than fragrance. With a lower concentration of perfume oil than cologne, aftershave has a weaker scent and is designed to last only a few hours. It is an ideal choice for those who want a subtle fragrance that won't overpower.

When choosing an aftershave, it is important to consider your skin type. For normal skin, a gel or liquid aftershave can be suitable, while those with oily skin may prefer a lotion, gel, or liquid with a moisturiser. For dry skin, a balm with a moisturiser is recommended.

Cologne is a lightly scented fragrance, usually marketed to men, with 2-5% perfume oil

Cologne is a lightly scented fragrance, usually marketed towards men, with a maximum of around 2-5% perfume oil. The rest of the cologne is made up of other ingredients, such as alcohol.

Cologne was originally formulated in 1709 by an Italian perfume maker in Cologne, Germany, and was marketed as "Eau de Cologne" or "Water of Cologne". It was believed to have the power to ward off the bubonic plague, which was prevalent at the time.

Today, cologne is used to describe any scent formulation with 2-5% perfume oil. In contrast, perfume or parfum contains a higher concentration of scent oil, typically between 20-40%. Due to the higher concentration of scent oils, perfumes tend to last longer than colognes and have a stronger scent.

Cologne is primarily used for fragrance and does not have the same antibacterial and astringent properties as aftershave. Therefore, it cannot soothe or treat irritation caused by shaving. Cologne should be applied to the skin, allowing the skin's natural oils to absorb and blend with the essential oils in the product, resulting in a unique scent. It is best applied to areas with pulse points, such as the neck and wrists, where the constant body temperature can heat the oils and release their fragrance.

When choosing between cologne and aftershave, it is important to consider your preferences and needs. If you want a fragrance that lasts longer, cologne is a better option. However, if you are looking for a product to soothe and treat your skin after shaving, aftershave is more suitable.

Eau de Toilette is a stronger fragrance than aftershave or cologne, with 7-15% perfume oil

The world of men's fragrances can be confusing, with terms like "cologne", "aftershave", "eau de toilette", and "eau de parfum" being used interchangeably and often incorrectly. But what exactly is the difference between these types of fragrances?

When it comes to strength, aftershave is typically the weakest type of scent. It is designed to be used after shaving to soothe and disinfect the skin, and contains a maximum of 1-3% perfume oil, with the rest made up of ingredients like aloe vera and alcohol. Cologne, or Eau de Cologne, is the next strength up, containing a maximum of around 2-5% perfume oil. While it is also marketed as a male fragrance, its primary purpose is not to cover up post-shave odours, but rather to make the wearer smell good.

Eau de Toilette, on the other hand, is a stronger fragrance than both aftershave and cologne, with a concentration of 7-15% perfume oil. This means that it will last longer and have a more intense scent. In fact, an Eau de Toilette will usually last a maximum of around 6-8 hours, making it a good choice for a night out or a long day at the office. Due to its higher concentration of fragrance oil, an Eau de Toilette will also be more expensive than an aftershave or cologne.

So, if you're looking for a fragrance that will make a lasting impression, an Eau de Toilette is a good option. However, it's important to remember that a stronger scent doesn't always mean a better one. Sometimes, a more subtle fragrance can be more appealing, depending on the occasion and personal preference.

Parfum/Perfume is the strongest fragrance, with 15-40% perfume oil

Parfum/Perfume is the strongest fragrance available, with a high concentration of scent oil—typically between 15 and 40%. This high concentration of oil is what gives parfum its potency and noticeable scent, which can last all day or even into the next. Due to its strength, parfum only needs to be applied sparingly to pulse points, where the constant body temperature can heat the oils, releasing their fragrance into the air.

The strength of parfum means that a little goes a long way. A small amount of parfum will be prominent from morning to evening and may even be detectable the next morning. This longevity means that, although parfum is often more expensive, it can be a good investment as it will last a long time.

The strength of parfum also means that it can be overpowering if too much is applied. It is important to find the right balance with parfum—enough to smell pleasant and for the fragrance to last, but not so much that it becomes overwhelming or gives those nearby a headache.

Parfum is a good choice for those who want a noticeable, long-lasting fragrance that they only need to apply sparingly.

Application differs for each product

The application of a fragrance product depends on its type and intended purpose. While colognes and Eau de Toilettes (EdTs) are primarily designed to make you smell good, aftershaves are meant to soothe and disinfect the skin after shaving.

Aftershaves are the only fragrances that should be applied to the face, specifically anywhere you have shaved. They often contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera and less perfume oil, reducing the risk of skin irritation. To apply, gently pat or massage the product onto damp skin.

Colognes and EdTs, on the other hand, should be applied to the pulse points on the body to maximise their longevity. These include the lower neck, upper chest, and behind the ears. Applying them to your clothes, for instance, will not allow the fragrance to develop properly and may even stain the fabric.

The best time to apply colognes and EdTs is right after a shower when your skin is still damp. Hold the bottle about 3-5 inches away from the skin for even distribution. Start with a single spray on your bare chest, and gradually move on to other parts of the body as you get comfortable with the scent.

Frequently asked questions