The three key metrics

Sillage How quickly fragrance molecules evaporate and leave a “trail” behind you.

Projection How far the scent reaches, controlled by the volatility of the ingredients and the amount of alcohol.

Durability How long the scent lasts, depending on oil concentration and the volatility of the molecules.

Cologne
2–5% oil

Sillage ● ○ ○
Light, fresh top notes disappear almost immediately.

Projection ≈ 0.5 m
A high alcohol content gives a quick puff that sends fragrance molecules into the air.

Shelf life ≈ 1–2 hours
A little oil makes the scent last a shorter time on the skin.

Eau de Toilette
5–15% oil

Sillage ● ● ○
Light to medium notes that linger for a short while.

Projection ≈ 1 m
The boost of alcohol creates a soft scent bubble around you.

Shelf life ≈ 2–3 hours
Enough oil for a couple of hours of life on the skin.

Eau de Parfum
15–20% oil

Sillage ● ● ●
High concentration and heavier ingredients release a steady stream over a longer period of time.

Projection ≈ 0.5–1 m
A balanced fragrance halo without taking over.

Shelf life ≈ 4–6 hours
An oil-rich formulation keeps the scent alive for most of your day.

Perfume Extract
20–40% oil

Sillage ● ● ○
The condensed oil concentration keeps everything close to the skin as a soft, discreet trail of fragrance.

Projection ≈ 0.3–0.5 m
Less alcohol means the scent stays more intimately close to you.

Shelf life ≈ 8–12 hours
High oil content releases the scent slowly over many hours.