Type of Fragrance

There are a number of different types of fragrance, and they all relate to the concentration level of perfume to water. It goes without saying that the higher the concentration level, the longer the fragrance will last.

Guide to Fragrance Strengths and Duration

Parfum or Perfume - 15-30% concentration level

Although the term "Perfume" is used regularly, it rarely actually refers to a true perfume. Due to the cost, it is unusual to be able to purchase a perfume, although this will normally last and be effective on the body for up to 6 hours.

Eau de Parfum - 8-15%

Eau de Parfum is designed to last for approximately 3-5 hours.

Eau de Toilette - 4-8%

Eau de Toilette is designed to last for approximately 2-4 hours.

Eau de Cologne - 3-5%

This is designed to last up to 2 hours.

Obviously with all of the above, you can just re-apply the scent, when it begins to wear off. It is important to understand the difference between the types of fragrance, as some retailers are able to compete on price by not clarifying the difference, or a customer comparing the price of an EDT (Eau de Toilette) with an Aftershave.

Why are some expensive fragrances sold so cheaply, and apparently the same fragrance so expensive somewhere else?

It goes without saying that sometimes one retailer is just able to offer a better deal than another. Or perhaps the overheads of a shop are far higher than an online retailer, and therefore they have to charge higher margins. There is also a wonderful myth that if it's cheap, there must be something wrong with it. Of course, the buyer should always show a little caution, but in general, the laws on internet shopping in the UK are generally in favour of the consumer. So are most credit card companies, payment gateways and large merchant sites like Amazon and Ebay. In simple terms, it is worth buying a well described perfume or eau de toilette from any reputable looking website in the UK. If you order a 30ml Eau de Parfum, you will get a 30ml Eau de Parfum - and if not, you'll get your money back, either directly from the retailer or from your card company.

Which company should I buy from?

This is the dilemma, and I would make some simple observations and recommendations. It really depends on the type of person you are. If you are the type who likes to try lots of new fragrances, then a high street retailer is probably the best option. You can try all the new smells, take advice from the staff and get some great ideas. Obviously, if you are looking to save money, but also like to try all the new fragrances, then use a high street to try them, then go home and buy them on the internet.

If you are the type of customer who is looking for a good deal, and normally wears the same fragrance, then shopping online is for you. There are hundreds of online retailers, and all of their prices will differ greatly. However, I would recommend finding an online retailer who offers a decent range so you can buy for others as well as yourself, and more importantly offers your perfume at a good price. The cheapest wont always be the best service. Even online, I'd give the company a call before ordering to make sure you are dealing with a company and not a back bedroom business.

To find an example of an online retailer with a good range and good prices, visit Smellies Direct.

Nick Hampton
Manager
Smellies Direct

FM Fragrances for Ladies Men and Children

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags:

Tagged with:

Filed under: FM Cosmetics

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!