The Three Key Metrics
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Sillage – How quickly aroma molecules evaporate and leave a “wake” behind you.
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Projection – How far scent travels, driven by ingredient volatility and alcohol content.
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Longevity – How long fragrance lasts, based on oil concentration and molecule volatility.
Eau de Cologne
2–5% oil
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Sillage ● ○ ○
Light, fresh top notes dissipate almost instantly. -
Projection ≈ 0.5 m
High alcohol blast pushes a burst of molecules into the air. -
Longevity ≈ 1–2 h
Minimal oil means scent slips away quickly.
Eau de Toilette
5–15% oil
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Sillage ● ● ○
Light to mid‑weight notes linger briefly in your wake. -
Projection ≈ 1 m
Alcohol lift creates a soft scent bubble around you. -
Longevity ≈ 2–3 h
Enough oil for a couple of hours, with airy lightness.
Eau de Parfum
15–20% oil
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Sillage ● ● ●
Rich oils and heavier ingredients release a steady stream. -
Projection ≈ 0.5–1 m
Balanced “scent halo” without overwhelming. -
Longevity ≈ 4–6 h
Oil-rich formula keeps fragrance going all day.
Extrait de Parfum
20–40% oil
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Sillage ● ● ○
Dense oil keeps most aroma close to skin—soft wake. -
Projection ≈ 0.3–0.5 m
Minimal alcohol means scent stays intimate. -
Longevity ≈ 8–12 h
High oil load releases fragrance slowly over many hours.