Eau de toilette, eau de parfum, extract… Faced with a fragrance counter, the number of designations can be confusing, and it is not always easy to find your way around.
Their main difference comes down to one factor: the concentration of fragrant materials. It affects longevity, sillage and how you wear your fragrance every day. Here is everything you need to know to make your choice, and why eau de toilette remains the ideal everyday companion, with our Les Eaux Mémoire fragrances for her and our eau de toilette fragrances for him.
In the table of contents
Concentration: what makes the difference
All these fragrances are made from a mixture of fragrant materials (the “juice”) diluted in alcohol and water. It is the proportion of this juice that determines the designation.
The science
Concentration ranges vary from one fragrance house to another, but generally:
- Eau de Cologne: approximately 2 to 5% fragrance materials
- Eau de toilette: approximately 5 to 15%
- Eau de parfum: approximately 15 to 20%
- Perfume extract: 20% and more
The higher the concentration, the more intense and long-lasting the fragrance. But longevity also depends on the composition: woody or musky base notes naturally last longer than fresh citrus notes.
Eau de toilette or eau de parfum: the comparison
| Eau de toilette | Eau de parfum | |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration | Approximately 5 to 15% | Approximately 15 to 20% |
| Intensity | Light, fresh, luminous | Denser and more enveloping |
| Sillage | Subtle and pleasant in a shared space | More pronounced |
| Ideal time | Everyday wear, the office, warmer days | Evenings, winter |
| Usage | Spray generously and reapply throughout the day | A few sprays are enough |
Key takeaway
The same composition can exist as eau de toilette and eau de parfum: the eau de toilette version often highlights the fresher top notes more, while the eau de parfum emphasizes the heart and base notes.
Why choose an eau de toilette?
- For everyday wear: its lightness can be worn from morning to evening without overwhelming those around you.
- For sunny days: its freshness remains pleasant even when it's hot.
- For freedom: you can spray it generously and reapply throughout the day.
- For variety: it's easier to change your fragrance according to your mood or the season.
To choose according to fragrance families, also consult our fragrance guide to choosing your eau de toilette.
The Eaux Mémoire for her: six happy memories
Inspired by the iconic colors of Vitry nail polishes, the Eaux Mémoire are six eaux de toilette designed to bring a happy moment back to life. Each comes in a 15 ml refillable spray, ideal for your bag, and a 100 ml bottle.
| Eau Mémoire | Family | The mood |
|---|---|---|
| Orange Tangerine | Citrusy, floral, fruity | Citrus fruits and mango, a summer afternoon |
| Jaune Éclat | Citrusy, floral, musky | Lemon and freesia, a sun-drenched terrace |
| Bleu Azur | Floral, aquatic, musky | An aquatic freshness facing the ocean |
| Vert Céladon | Floral, fruity | Fig and blackcurrant in the shade of a fig tree |
| Blanc Organdi | Floral, fruity | White flowers and vanilla, intimate and powdery |
| Rose Baiser | Floral, fruity, gourmand | Rose, peony and praline, a delicious bouquet |
Our eaux de toilette for him
Two masculine signatures with contrasting characters, available in 50 ml and 100 ml: discover them in our men's eau de toilette selection.
Écorce d'Acier: woody, spicy and intense
Woody · spicy
Écorce d'Acier Eau de Toilette for Men
A woody, spicy and sensual trail for the confident man seeking character.
View product| Top notes | Heart notes | Base notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cardamom, nutmeg, bergamot, mandarin | Fig, tonka bean, leather | Patchouli, vanilla, sandalwood, cedar |
Vent d'Argent: fresh, aromatic and woody
Fresh · woody
Vent d'Argent Eau de Toilette for Men
A fresh, lemony and aromatic fragrance with a woody base, for the modern and elegant man.
View product| Top notes | Heart notes | Base notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lemon, cardamom, sparkling citrus | Aquatic accord, cypress, aromatic notes | Cedar, vetiver, fine woods |
| He prefers... | Give it to him |
|---|---|
| Warm, gourmand and distinctive fragrances | Écorce d'Acier |
| Freshness, aquatic and green notes | Vent d'Argent |
How can you make your eau de toilette last longer?
- Moisturize your skin beforehand: dry skin holds fragrance less effectively than hydrated skin.
- Spray on pulse points: wrists, neck, inner elbows, behind the ears.
- Do not rub your wrists: this motion crushes the top notes.
- Carry a small size to reapply throughout the day.
- Keep the bottle away from light and heat, never in the bathroom.
Looking for an alcohol-free alternative to slip into your bag? Discover the perfumed roll-on.
FAQ: eau de toilette or eau de parfum
What is the difference between eau de toilette and eau de parfum?
The concentration of scented ingredients: approximately 5 to 15% for an eau de toilette, compared with 15 to 20% for an eau de parfum. Eau de toilette is lighter and fresher, while eau de parfum is more intense.
Does eau de toilette last less long?
Generally yes, as it is less concentrated. Its longevity also depends on its composition and your skin: hydrated skin and application to pulse points extend its trail.
When should you wear an eau de toilette?
For everyday wear, at the office, in spring and summer: its lightness makes it pleasant in all circumstances, without inconveniencing those around you.
Which eau de toilette should women choose?
According to your preferences: fresh with Orange Tangerine or Bleu Azur, floral with Blanc Organdi or Rose Baiser. Discover the six Eaux Mémoire fragrances.
Which eau de toilette should men choose?
Écorce d'Acier for a woody and spicy trail, Vent d'Argent for an aromatic and woody freshness.
Where should you apply your eau de toilette?
On pulse points (wrists, neck, inner elbows), about 15 cm from the skin, without rubbing.
Find your eau de toilette
Six Eaux Mémoire fragrances for her, two signatures for him: discover the entire collection.
Discover our eaux de toilette →
