Everything You Need to Know About Eau de Parfum

When it comes to choosing a signature scent, you can't go wrong with an eau de parfum. These perfumes are a little more potent than their lighter counterparts, containing between 15 and 20 percent of perfume oils and lasting for hours after application. While the exact composition varies between brands, a general rule of thumb is to think of an eau de parfum as a heavier and denser fragrance, according to fragrance expert Laura Slatkin from New York-based clean scent line NEST Fragrance. A cologne, on the other hand, offers a concentration of only two to four percent of pure perfume essence and usually appears as a men's scent, but it can also be used by women.

The higher the concentration of perfume oils, the stronger and longer-lasting the fragrance will be. The best time of year to wear an eau de parfum is during the summer, when it's fresh and light—a great pick for hot days and evenings. However, a fuller eau de parfum can be equally suited to colder weather, since scent dissipates faster in dry air.

As a bonus, the high alcohol content of an eau de parfum acts as a preservative and keeps the scent from fading over time. However, it's important to keep in mind that no matter what concentration of perfume you choose, your body will eventually absorb the ingredients and metabolize them. This means that the fragrance will eventually begin to fade—if it begins to smell muted or sour, it's probably time for a refill.

Eau de parfums are typically more expensive than colognes, and they're usually worn sparingly because of their longevity. They also last longer than eau de toilettes, with some retaining their scent for up to eight hours after applying.

Slatkin says a good rule of thumb is to apply the scent on the back of your neck and wrists, where the skin is thickest and holds the scent the longest. Then, spritz a few more squirts into your hair and behind your ears for added impact.

The olfactory story of each eau de parfum is unique, but many feature lush, floral elements that linger on the skin for hours after application. For example, Roja Dove's Do Son captures the freshness, intoxication and voluptuousness of tuberose, paired with sambac jasmine and a touch of orange for a citrusy radiance.

Another bestselling eau de parfum is Tom Ford's Soleil Neige, which features notes of prickly pear fruit, cactus flower and warm agave nectar for a clean, feminine fragrance that can easily take you from day to night. Whether you're searching for a summery floral or an autumnal woody scent, we've rounded up some of the most flattering, long-lasting eau de parfums for every season. Shop some of our favorites in the gallery ahead, and don't forget to reapply throughout the day for an all-day, irresistible scent.

The fragrance world can be a confusing one, especially when it comes to understanding the difference between perfume and cologne. It shouldn't be an either-or situation, however; it's important to have both in your fragrance rotation for different occasions and situations. Whether you're looking for something to wear at the office, a romantic date night, or simply to freshen up after sweating a lot during a workout, there is a scent that will suit you.

With an Eau de Parfum, you're getting the second highest concentration of a fragrance formula, with around 12-18% of pure perfume oil. These are typically a bit stronger and longer-lasting than Eau de Toilette sprays. For instance, a Tom Ford Soleil Neige Eau de Parfum is said to last up to 10 hours, making it perfect for evening wear or a special occasion.

As for how to apply an Eau de Parfum, it's recommended to lightly mist on your neck and wrists, or anywhere else that you wish to perfume. This will allow the scent to form on your skin and be more effective than if you were to simply spray in the air. You can even layer your fragrance with a matching body lotion to prolong its staying power.

Alternatively, you could also add some of your favorite perfume to a hand cream or facial moisturizer for a more subtle way to smell beautiful. The key is to find a scent that compliments your skin type and personal style, and feel free to experiment with different concentrations of your favorite fragrance to figure out which suits you the best.

If you're looking for a long-lasting fragrance that will make people notice your presence, opt for an Eau de Parfum. These scents are stronger than their lighter counterparts and will typically last for up to eight hours on your skin, according to Lifehacker. This makes them great for a night out with friends or when you're feeling extra confident.

Pure Parfum is the highest level of perfume concentration, and also the most expensive. These have the highest percentage of perfume oils at up to 30%, which gives them a very strong and long-lasting scent that can linger on your skin for hours without needing any midday top-ups.

Depending on the exact recipe, these perfumes may also contain added ingredients like woods, flowers, or spices to create an additional aroma. In any case, they're often considered to be the most sophisticated and refined of all fragrance options.