Perfume has been an intriguing and seductive aspect of human culture for centuries. It has the power to evoke memories, alter moods, and leave an unforgettable impression. But what exactly is in a bottle of perfume? How is it made, and why do perfumes smell so different? Let’s explore the basics of perfume, including note groups, strengths, and perfume structure.
Fragrance Notes: The Building Blocks of Perfume
Perfume is composed of different fragrance notes, which in turn can be divided into three main categories: top notes, heart notes and base notes.
1. Top notes
Top notes are the first scents you smell when you spray on a perfume. They are light, fleeting and usually disappear quickly after application. These notes create the first impression of the perfume and catch your attention. Examples of top notes are citrus fruits, fruity scents and spicy aromas.
2. Heart notes
The heart notes are the heart of the perfume and appear after the top notes have faded. They are responsible for the essence and character of the perfume. Heart notes can contain floral, spicy or woody scents and give the perfume depth and complexity.
3. Base notes
The base notes form the foundation of the perfume and are the longest lasting scents. They only appear after some time on the skin and ensure the stability and durability of the perfume. Examples of base notes are woody aromas, vanilla, amber and musk.
Strengths of Perfume
Perfumes come in different strengths, which indicate the concentration of scented oils in the product. The four most common strengths are:
1. Perfume (Extrait de Parfum)
This is the strongest form of perfume, with a concentration of fragrance oils of 15% to 40%. Perfume has a very intense scent and lasts a long time on the skin, often up to 8 hours or more.
2. Eau de Parfum (EDP)
Eau de Parfum usually contains between 10% and 20% fragrance oils. It is slightly lighter than perfume but still quite powerful and long-lasting, with an average wear time of 5 to 7 hours.
3. Eau de Toilette (EDT)
Eau de Toilette has a concentration of 5% to 15% fragrance oils and is usually lighter and more refreshing in nature. It lasts on the skin for about 3 to 5 hours.
4. Eau de Cologne (EDC)
Eau de Cologne is the lightest variant, with only 2% to 4% fragrance oils. It is refreshing and subtle, with a wear time of about 2 to 3 hours.
The choice of perfume strength depends on personal preference and the desired effect.
Perfume is more than just a pleasant scent; it is an art form that blends scents to evoke emotions and create memories. By understanding the basics of notes, strengths, and perfume structure, you can better choose which perfume is right for you and how to maximize its effect. So, the next time you wear a perfume, you know there is a whole story behind that beautiful scent on your skin.