Perfume types and properties As the percentage of aromatic compounds decreases, the intensity and longevity of the scent decreases, also.

Perfume: 20%-40% aromatic compounds
Eau de parfum: 10-20% aromatic compounds
Eau de toilette: 5-10% aromatic compounds
Eau de cologne: 4-5% aromatic compounds
Splash: 1-3% aromatic compounds

FDC Perfumes Q & A

 

What is a Tester?

Testers are promotional display bottles containing the exact fragrance sold that are often labeled as ￿Tester￿, ￿Demonstration￿ or ￿Not for Sale￿.  The intended purpose of testers are to promote the fragrance while cutting production costs.  Testers are often used by many major retail stores for customers to sample the fragrance before deciding to purchase the fragrance.  Generally, testers are wrapped or packaged in simple boxes with or without a cap.  Therefore the testers packaging may vary depending on the manufacturer.

What is the difference between Perfume, Eau de Parfum (EDP), Eau de Toilette (EDT), and Eau de Cologne (EDC)?
The differences are simply a matter of the amount or concentration of oils in the fragrance. These oils are called "juice." The highest concentration of "juice" is in perfume (or parfum). Next would be Eau de Parfum, then Eau de Toilette, and finally Eau de Cologne. Actually, Eau de Toilette and Eau de Cologne are generally interchangeable, particularly in Men's fragrances. After Shave has the least amount of oils. The higher the concentration of "juice" the longer your fragrance will last, and the less you need to apply.

Why do some fragrances seem to last much longer than others?
People with dry skin usually find their fragrance holding time shorter than those with oily skin because oily skin has more natural moisture to hold in the fragrance. PH levels (amount of acidity in our skin) also vary slightly from person to person. Our individual levels of PH will determine how each ingredient in a fragrance will react.

How can I make my scent last longer?
Fragrance lasts longer on some people than on others because of differences in our skin (oily or dry) and in our PH levels. To achieve a longer effect, try layering your fragrance. Using the fragrance bath gel, (if the company offers one), then the moisturizer or powder, and then the Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum or Eau de Cologne, will usually have a longer lasting effect. Also, apply your fragrance low on the body, as well as behind your ears and on your neck, so that the scent rises and you won't lose it as quickly. A light spray on the hair can last all day.

What is the difference between a splash and a spray?
There is absolutely no difference in the fragrance. The difference is in the application only. However, a spray bottle, being ostensibly sealed all the time, may actually have a longer shelf life. Making the decision between spray and splash is entirely a matter of personal preference.

Why does fragrance contain alcohol?
Alcohol makes the fragrance emanate from your skin. Without alcohol, you would be the only person who knew you were wearing any fragrance at all.

How can I keep my fragrance from going bad?
Keep all fragrance in a cool, dry area, and away from windows as sunlight can unbalance the various ingredients. An opened bottle should be kept in its box to insure a longer shelf life.

Why does a fragrance last longer on some people?
Blondes or people with light skin have a tendency towards dry skin, and fragrances are basically oils that will be absorbed by the skin like moisturizers. To help your fragrance last longer use a matching body lotion or unscented body lotion to apply to pulse points before applying your fragrance.

Why do fragrances smell differently on different people?
Body chemistry, diet and age affect fragrances on their skin. Also, fragrance consists of many essential oils. Certain essential oils have affinity to our skin, and they may be absorbed while other may not. This creates an imbalance on the skin and accounts for the difference.

How should I or where should I apply fragrance?
Fragrance should be applied to pulse points. This is where the blood vessels are closest to the skin giving off more heat and acting like mini fragrance pumps. Pulse points are the wrist, behind the ear, crook of the arm and knee, base of the throat. Also, for long lasting fragrance spray at the ankles, it allows the fragrance to blossom up.

Does perfume need special handling?
Fragrances should be kept away from excessive heat or cold, and to avoid evaporation, the cap must be tightly closed to maintain fragrance integrity. Also, do not expose the fragrance for any length of time to sun light.

Are there other uses for a fragrance other than application to the body?
You can put a few drops of your favorite fragrance in a bath or a few drops in the water when washing your lingerie or spray on artificial flowers.

How long will a fragrance last on me?
Fragrances are designed to last about 4 hours or so. Some people may notice that a particular fragrance lasts all day but by then it will not smell as it's supposed to. You must re-apply once or twice a day.

How long can I keep my fragrance stored?
Fragrances don't last forever. There are certain precautions though that will ensure the quality of the fragrance. Keep the bottle in a dry, dark place. Heat can also destroy a fragrance so keep it from extreme temperatures. Fragrances usually last 3 years from the date they were manufactured.

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