The difference in Eau de Cologne and eau de parfum is not just the price you pay but refers to how you apply and lasting properties of your chosen fragrance. At Magees our dedicated staff can assist you in choosing a fragrance which suits your personality but also the way in which you wear your perfume.
Essential oils are the basis of any perfume and these include absolutes (jasmine, rose, neroli), animal extracts (musk, ambergris), sandlewood etc. and synthetic fragrances. This base perfume essence might not actually be enticing by itself and in some cases may be rather unpleasant. This is the concentrated perfume which must be diluted by alcohol and/or water.

Fragrances come in many forms and have many different names but generally the main four categories are as follows:

Perfume:The most expensive version of any fragrance. This is due to the high concentrate of essences. Perfume is an art form of alchemy and the top brands release a heady mix of top notes, heart and base note which release over time. Perfume tends to be slightly oilier and will typically contain 15-40%, with an average content of 225% pure perfume extract. It has a slightly thicker, oilier consistency. It tends to be sold with ‘stopper bottles’ and not sprays. It is too strong to spray all over (and tooexpensive). Only a tiny amount is needed and it is longer lasting than any of the other forms of fragrances                               Giorgio Armani Si Le Parfum. 40ML Magees Price €125.00

Eau de Perfume/(Parfum): A more diluted perfume essence makes up eau de Parfum, with more alcohol and water. This means the smell is a bit lighter and usually doesn’t last quite as long, but as the top notes die away, the middle notes or heart notes of the perfume become more noticeable. Many women find Eau de Parfum preferable because it is more discreet and is suitable to spray on hair or clothing. (Delicate fabrics such as silk may stain so caution is advised). Typically there will be 10-20% perfume essence in Eau de Perfume. It is of course cheaper but it usually lasts well and is sold in small sizes which are perfect for handbags.  Agent Provocateur Eau De Parfum Magees Price €24.95

Eau de Toilette: A lighter version still and usually sold in spray bottles, Eau de Toilette contains between as little as 4% and as much as 15% aromatic essence. The high alcohol content means it will not last very long but the economic price means that you can use liberally. Generally this version is the most advisable to use day to day as it is less intense and even if you do use too much it will lighten up fairly quickly. The top notes dominate making it refreshing when it is applied but evaporating quite quickly. Eau de toilette and cologne are the most popular forms in which
fragrance is sold, and are particularly appropriate for the summer.                               Calvin Klein CK One Fragrance Magees Price €15.95

Eau de Cologne: Eau de Cologne’ is derived from French word for the city of Köln where a particular scent was first. It is the bottom of the range in terms of concentration, but this makes it perfect for the ‘splash’ kind of perfume which young people enjoy. There are specific blends of aromas used in the making of Cologne. Typically very light, fresh and fruity and containing the essential oils, lavender, lemon, bergamot, orange and also the absolute neroli. They usually contain about 7% essence dissolved in alcohol of 60º or 70º. Eau de Cologne is perfect for hot days and for those who like a light refreshing fragrance.
Given the thousands of fragrances available, fresh, floral and oriental, choosing one that is right for you can be daunting. Remember that the fragrance that works with your best friend might not work with your chemistry. Pop into your local friendly pharmacist and test a particular perfume. At Magees, we have an exhilarating range of top brands and a selection of price ranges where you are sure to find your signature fragrance.              4711 Eau De Cologne Splash Magees Price €4.95

And if by any chance your still unsure here is a short video that explains it all!

Video Credit: Kinis Korner