Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Pure Perfume, Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Cologne & Splash/After Shave?
The differences are simply a matter of the concentrations of oils in the particular fragrance type. The highest concentration would be in Pure Perfume (known as parfum), next would be Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Cologne and then Splash/After Shaves. So, the higher the concentration of oils in the fragrance the longer it will last and the less you need to apply.
The concentration by percent/volume of perfume oil in the different fragrance types are as follows:
- Perfume Extract (Extrait): 15-40% aromatic compounds
- Eau de Parfum (EdP): 10-20% aromatic compounds
- Eau de Toilette (EdT): 5-15% aromatic compounds
- Eau de Cologne (EdC): 3-8% aromatic compounds
- Splash/After Shave: 1-3% aromatic compounds
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What are Perfumes & Colognes (fragrances) actually made from?
Perfumes & Colognes are simply a mixture of fragrant essential oils, aroma compounds, fixatives, and solvents used to give the human body a pleasant smell.
The precise formula of commercial perfumes & colognes are kept secret and even if they were widely published they would be dominated by such complex ingredients and odorants that they would be of little use in providing a useful guide to the general consumer. Nonetheless, connoisseurs of perfume can become extremely skillful at identifying the components and origins of scents in the same manner as wine experts.

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What are fragrance notes and what do they refer to?
Fragrances are described as having three sets of "notes" which make up the harmonious chord of the scent. These notes unfold over time beginning with the top notes, leading into the middle notes and then finally onto the base notes which gradually appear in the final stage.
Top notes are very light and last just a short time (about 5-10 minutes). Middle notes become apparent about 15 minutes after application and can last up to an hour or more. Base notes are made up of heavier ingredients and these last the longest - normally for several hours.
- Top Notes: The scent that is recognized immediately upon application. They consist of small, light molecules that evaporate quickly and they form a person's initial impression of a fragrance.
- Middle Notes: The scent of a fragrance that emerges just prior to when the top note dissipates. The middle notes compounds form the "heart" or main body of a fragrance and act to mask the often unpleasant initial impression of base notes which become more pleasant with time.
- Base Notes: The scent of a fragrance that appears close to the departure of the middle note. The base and middle notes together make up the main theme of a fragrance. Base notes bring depth and solidity to a fragrance and are normally not recognized until 30 minutes after application.
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What are some of the specific fragrance notes?

For Women:
- Fresh: Fresh scents are zesty, clean, and effervescent. They're bursting with ripe fruits, such as lemon, lime, and grapefruit and exploding with crisp greens, such as fresh cut grass and violet leaves. Some also stir cool and refreshing water-based aromas, such as sea breeze and fresh dew.
- Floral: The most popular fragrance family, Floral is a blend of mixed bouquets of jasmine, rose, white peony, gardenia, and tuberose. These fragrances are either pure and flowery, or subtly warmed with a touch of spice or fruit for a soft, powdery finish.
- Oriental: Rich and regal, Oriental fragrances are wrapped with warm, spicy notes, such as vanilla, cinnamon, and clove. Also present are opulent flowers - think rose and orchid - blended with sweet spices, as well as mouth-watering sugars stirred with amber and nutmeg.
- Woody: Woody scents are nutty and spicy in nature with sensual notes of amber, sandalwood, cedarwood, and a touch of patchouli. Some wood blends have a hint of cinnamon, a sprinkle of earth, or a puff of tobacco.
For Men:
- Fresh: Clean and refreshing, Fresh scents blend citrus notes such as lemon, lime, and mandarin, as well as natural aromas like cut grass and rich green leaves. Cool and refreshing marine notes are often present.
- Aromatic: Aromatics contain a cocktail of ingredients. They mix citrus, lavender, orange, ginger, blackcurrant, lime, and are often spiked with sweet spices and oriental woods.
- Woody: Woody scents are super-sexy blends of cedar, vetiver, and sandalwood. Often they're warmed with musk, cooled with oakmoss, or draped in leather.
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How can I keep my fragrance from going bad?
Keep all fragrances 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.

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

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