Perfume is not merely a fragrance; it is an important tool for expressing one’s personality and determining one’s impression. However, surprisingly few people have a systematic understanding of the differences between concentrations such as ” parfum ” and ” eau de toilette ” and the major fragrance systems. In this article, we will explain the five classifications by concentration, typical fragrance lineages, and changes in fragrance as basic knowledge to avoid making mistakes when selecting fragrances. By reading this article, you should be able to develop an aesthetic eye for selecting a bottle of fragrance that is perfect for you, while keeping in mind the situations in which you will be using it.
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The basics of perfume knowledgeThe five concentration classifications of perfumes
The most basic and important classification when choosing a perfume is by fragrance percentage. The percentage of fragrance means the ratio of the amount of undiluted fragrance to a solvent such as ethanol or water. The higher the percentage, the longer the fragrance lasts, and the lower the percentage, the lighter the fragrance. Understanding this difference also allows one to choose the appropriate fragrance for different purposes, such as business occasions, dating, and relaxation. In this section, we will explain the “five types of perfumes” that you should understand as indicators for improving the accuracy of your perfume selection.
| Types of Perfumes by Concentration | Perfume percentage | Duration | Pick-up occasions |
| Parfum | About 15~25 | About 5~12 hours | Luxury parties and weddings |
| Eau de Parfum | About 10~15 | About 5~7 hours | Important business meeting, anniversary date |
| Eau de Toilette | About 5~10 | About 3~4 hours | Weekday office, casual date |
| Eau de Cologne | About 3~5 | About 1~2 hours | Light outing |
| Eau de Santour | About 1~3 | About 1 hour | Relaxation time |
Types of Perfume Concentrations 1
Parfum is the French word for “perfume. It is also called ” Extrait ” which means ” extract ” in French because of its high concentration. The word “perfume” is derived from “per fumum” (“through smoke”), and is reminiscent of the “purification” rituals performed for the gods in BC. Later, in the development of perfume in medieval Europe, it was actively used as an etiquette for masking body odor due to the distrust of water caused by epidemics and inadequate infrastructural facilities. However, the role of perfume has undergone a drastic change in the modern era. The practical function of deodorant has receded, and perfume is now positioned as a lifestyle consumer product for self-expression and diversion. As a result, parfum (Extrait de parfum), with its high concentration of fragrance and long-lasting intensity, tended to become excessive in daily life and office environments, and parfum moved into a more limited position. Although the fragrance has the highest percentage of fragrance (approximately 15-25%), its diffusivity is reduced due to the relatively low ethanol content, and one drop is sufficient for approximately 5 to 12 hours. In recent years, the market for alcohol-free products, which are made almost entirely from fragrance without dilution, has also been expanding. We recommend the use of these products for special occasions such as reception parties, where you want to leave a prestigious and vivid impression.
Types of Perfume Concentrations 2Eau de Parfum
Eau de Parfum is the second most common type of perfume after Parfum, with a concentration of about 10~15%. Eau means “water” in French. Although its duration is shorter than that of parfum ( about 5~7 hours), it has a good balance with diffusion due to its ethanol content. It is ideal for important business meetings, anniversary dates, and other times when you want to get down to business in your daily routine.
Types of Perfume Concentrations 3Eau de Toilette
Eau de Toilette is the most common type of perfume for both men and women. The percentage of fragrance is about 5~10%, which is lower than that of eau de parfum and lasts about 3~4 hours, but its high ethanol content and high diffusivity make it ideal for a casual fragrance. This type of perfume is recommended for those who are not accustomed to wearing perfume and for those who want to use it casually. It is recommended for situations where you do not want to be overly impressed by the fragrance but want to enhance your performance, such as weekday desk work or a leisurely date.
Types of Perfume Concentrations 4Eau de Cologne
Eau de Cologne, with a low fragrance content of approximately 3~5%, is recommended as a first perfume. Eau de Cologne originally means ” water of Cologne,” and is said to have originated as a diluted perfume sold in Cologne, Germany, during the Napoleonic era. It is light and comfortable to wear, lasting approximately 1~2 hours, and is often used as a deodorant. It is also characterized by its affordable price range, making it ideal for use for relaxation or for casual occasions, such as a casual stroll in the neighborhood on a day off.
Types of perfume concentration 5Eau de Senteur
The alcohol-free Eau de Senteur was created so that people with sensitive skin and children can use it without hesitation. Although this type of perfume is not very familiar in Japan, it is considered popular in Europe and is also a popular gift for children. In addition to not containing alcohol, the fragrance has a low fragrance content of approximately 1~3%, giving it a very subtle aroma with a short duration of only about one hour. For this reason, many people use it as a room fragrance or to refresh themselves while relaxing on the bed.
They are often solid perfumes made by kneading perfume into wax or wax-like balm, which is applied to the skin with the fingertips. Many of them do not contain alcohol, so volatilization is mild, and they are attractive for their soft fragrance in a personal space. It can also be used as a skin moisturizer, and there is no need to worry about liquid leaks.
The final layer to choosing a perfume that won't failWhat are the five typical fragrance strains in men's perfumes?
There are five main strains that you should keep in mind when learning about men’s perfumes. The following is an explanation of the main fragrances used in each of them and the image they give.
For an intelligent and mature appearanceWoody
This is a royal line of men’s perfumes based on the scent of trees. Sandalwood, cedarwood, and vetiver are typical examples. Because of their large molecular weight and tendency to remain on the skin, they are mainly used as the last note. It gives a sense of warmth, intelligence, and calmness, making it a perfect match for business situations and fall/winter.
For sensuality and ownershipOriental
A sweet, heavy, spicy scent reminiscent of the Middle East and Asia. It features amber, musk, vanilla, and spices such as cinnamon and clove. Because of its slow volatilizing characteristics, most of it is fixed in the last note. It can create a sexy and mysterious atmosphere, and is most effective on a date night or at a party.
For familiarity and freshnessCitrus
A scent centered on citrus fruits such as lemon, bergamot, grapefruit, and orange. It is fresh and light, making it suitable for all occasions, from business to sports to casual wear. Because of its small molecular weight and easy oxidation, it is mainly used for top notes, but it is also easy for beginners to handle and is highly favorable for both genders and all ages.
For receptiveness and overflowing confidenceFloral
This line is based on floral scents and used to have a strong women’s image, but in recent years it has become increasingly popular in men’s perfumes due to the genderless trend. It has a good balance between volatility and persistence, and is widely used regardless of stage. Jasmine, rose, and lavender are used to create a sophisticated, elegant, and soft atmosphere.
For those seeking both oozing elegance and sex appealFougere
Fougere means fern in French and is the scent that created the image of the perfume brand in 1882 and was introduced by the Houbigant company ” (“Fougère Royale”). The scent is composed of lavender, oakmoss, and coumarin, with the image of ferns at its center. It is the prototype of the classic men’s perfume that combines cleanliness and austerity, which is also described as a “barber’s scent,” and is suitable for dandy men who want to elevate their suit style.
The three stages of perfume weavingWhat are the roles of top, middle, and last notes?
The changes in fragrance in perfumes are structured based on the differences in the volatility rate of fragrances to solvents such as ethanol and water. It is also important to keep in mind that perfumes are encouraged to diffuse by ethanol. Perfumes are generally defined by the fragrance that leaves a lasting impression from the middle to the last note after the top note has volatilized. By deepening your understanding of the system, you will be able to further brush up on your image of the perfume you are looking for.
| Perfume Stages | Duration of perfume after application | Most commonly used strains | Notes |
| Top notes | 10 to 30 minutes | Highly volatile citrus, herbal type | The top note is the one you smell immediately after putting on a mouette (test paper) in a store. Do not make a purchase decision based on this scent alone. |
| Middle note | 30 minutes to 2 hours later | Floral, spicy and fruity | The heart note is the core of the perfume, so it is very important to know if the middle note is to your taste or not. |
| Last note | After 2 hours | Low volatile woody, musk, amber, and vanilla type | Also known as “base notes,” these notes fuse with body odor to become your own unique fragrance. The longest lasting fragrance is also in this family. |
A deep dive into the recommended occasions for each product11 recommended perfumes
From here, we will introduce OTOKOMAE’s carefully selected recommended perfumes based on five types of perfumes and five fragrance strains.
BYREDO TOBACCO MANDARIN
subtitle=”Recommended Perfume 1 “Parfum””]The fragrance “Tobacco Mandarin” is inspired by the landscape of Tangier, Morocco, where European and African cultures intersect. Citrus and spices rise at the top, gradually giving way to mandarin and coriander, evoking “day,” while the smoky aroma of tobacco and leather in the middle expresses “night. The complex and unrealistic scent of this perfume is addictive and has been praised by perfume aficionados. It is classified as a parfum, oriental, or woody fragrance, so why not use it in an unusual setting with a special partner in mind?
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Recommended Perfume 2: Eau de ParfumFUEGUIA Chamber, a bottle to look at things as they are
“Chamber” by FEGUIA 1833, a niche fragrance that pursues fragrance as it is. Inspiration from the stones and lawns used in the Kimbell Art Museum in Texas, USA, is combined with perfumer Julien Bedell’s commitment to naturally derived ingredients. Green ingredients such as the Old Man’s Beard vine, yerba mate leaf, and the woody vetiver fragrance create depth, and are favored by connoisseurs who seek depth. It is recommended for use in a tranquil space to face oneself.
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Recommended Perfume 3: Eau de ParfumCLEAN RESERVE Warm Cotton
Clean Reserve defines “Warm Cotton” as a clean, cottony is at its core a clean, cottony fragrance. With lily and floral accords in the middle notes and musk, vetiver, and amber in the last notes, it transitions from freshness to a warm and soft texture. While the fragrance is simple and transparent, it is favored for its exquisite balance of floral and musk, which renews the concept of cleanliness. It is understated, yet firmly memorable because of its position as an eau de parfum. It is highly appreciated by a wide range of people, from fragrance beginners to advanced users, and is a versatile bottle that can be used every day, regardless of the occasion or the recipient.
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Recommended Perfume 4: Eau de ParfumCREED Aventus
In 18th century London, the House of Creed, the vanguard of Creed, was opened, Queen Victoria nominated it for a royal warrant. The name caught the attention of Napoleon III, who opened a store in Paris in 1854. Following in its footsteps, Creed created ” Avantus ” in honor of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte’s life on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of its founding. The composition is fruity and woody, with hand-picked bergamot in the top notes, followed by lemon, pink pepper, pineapple and patchouli dominating the heart notes. In a departure from the oriental fragrance up to this point, birch and cedarwood spice up the middle notes. This fresh and profound fragrance is aimed at the “Avantus Man” who is dedicated to success, as typified by Napoleon, and is sure to be a motivational force for the hard-working business man.
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Serge Lutens L'Eau Serge Lutens
The time spent with “water” such as bath time is the origin of life. L’Eau Serge Lutens” is the origin of the collection “Matin Lutens” (“Matin Lutens”), which was imagined as It aims to focus on one’s own life, one step removed from the habits and self-exaggerations of society. The top notes are refreshing with aldehydes and citrus, while the middle notes fuse floral notes with herbal notes of clary sage and aromatic notes.
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LE LABO ANOTHER13
In 2010, the British fashion, art, and culture magazine “Another Magazine” and and Natalie Lawson joined as perfumer to create the popular “Another 13” as a collaboration with the British fashion, art, and culture magazine “Another Magazine” in 2010. It was created to evoke the scent of a freshly printed magazine, and the top notes of citrus, pear, and apple create an inorganic, clear air. In the middle note, musky ambrette and moss from the seeds of the hibiscus family produce a powdery sweetness, and in the last note, ambrette ride, which is said to be the core of musk, and woody isoey super are placed to create a lingering scent. It is a unique fragrance that blends well with the skin, and will make its presence felt as an admired perfume that clearly defines itself in both everyday and extraordinary situations.
Also, although not a perfume, Le Labo’s LIQUID BALM series offers the scent of ” Another 13 ” in a roll-on type. The “roll-on type,” in which the liquid is applied by rolling a ball on the tip on the skin, can be applied to the wrists or behind the ears with pinpoint accuracy, making it useful for reapplication while on the go or in an office environment where you want to be mindful of your surroundings. Many products are small in volume and easy to carry.
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ÉGOÏSTE PLATINUM Eau de Toilette by Chanel
Chanel introduced ÉGOÏSTE in 1990. EGOÏSTE”, a men’s fragrance created with daily use in mind, while drawing on the lineage of the “ÉGOÏSTE” fragrance introduced by Chanel in 1990. The lavender and rosemary in the top notes are sublimated to be fresher with geranium in the middle notes, and the cedarwood and vetiver in the last notes give it a mature male appeal. The eau de toilette combines floral and cool fougere notes to create a fragrance that is easily accepted neutrally by both men and women, not to mention in the office.
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Hermès Un Jardin Sur Le Nil (Garden of the Nile)
“, which was inspired by an island on the surface of a river in the Nile River basin. Garden of the Nile” is one of the most famous green perfumes. The moment it is applied, the fragrance is fragrant with citrus acidity and the sweetness of young mango, while the fresh floral scent of lotus flower gives a freshness to the fragrance. The middle and last notes are faintly woody and forest-like. Overall, the fragrance is unrefined, making it easy to use on a daily basis, and although ” Hermès ” may seem a bit expensive, it is surprisingly affordable.
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Recommended Perfume 9: Eau de ToiletteDiptyque Do son
The seaside “Do Son” near Haiphong in northern Vietnam, where founder Yves Queron spent his childhood Do Son,” a summer resort near Hai Phong in northern Vietnam, where the company’s founder, Yves Queron, spent his childhood. The sweet fragrance of white flowers mingled with the sea breeze was his original landscape, and this is one of the most symbolic diptychs created as a tribute to such memories. In the top note, orange blossom and rose spread out, creating a sense of transparency like the morning sea breeze. The middle note contains tuberose, the star of the fragrance, creating a softness like a flower bathed in sunlight. In the last note, musk and benzoin leave a subtle sweetness. It goes well with white shirts, linens, and other natural outfits reminiscent of a warm daytime, making it comfortable for use by both men and women alike.
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Recommended Perfume 10: Eau de CologneHermès Eau de Citron Noir
Created by perfumer Christine Nagel and inspired by ” Citron Noir,” a Middle Eastern dish called ” It is inspired by the black lemon used in a Middle Eastern dish called “citron noir. Citron noir, black tea, and smoky guaiac wood are combined, but the hierarchy has not been officially disclosed. It should be noted that while the point of a regular citrus perfume is to be cool and refreshing, ” Eau de Citron Noir ” is multilayered, with a consistent citrus scent, but with woody shades. This is a perfect bottle for everyday use, as it is universally liked and yet changes its aspect, giving it a unique character.
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Recommended Perfume 11 'Eau de Santour'Givenchy Ptisenbon, a gentle fragrance that can also be used by children and is conducive to relaxation
“Petit Saint Bon” is one of France’s leading Maison brands. Petit Saint Bon” is a baby fragrance created through a collaboration between “Givenchy,” one of France’s leading maison brands, and “Tartine et Chocolat,” a children’s clothing brand. The top notes are lemon and orange, the middle notes are honeysuckle, lily of the valley, and jasmine, and the last notes are musk and amber. The fragrance is clean and transparent, usually an eau de toilette, but also available as an alcohol-free eau de santour. It is expected to be compatible with relaxation at home or in a personal space.
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