#33 Complete: Perfume vs. Cologne vs. Eau De Toilette

Resolution: Learn Something New

Oh snap, ya’ll, we learned all kinds of things today. First, we learned a ton about Dead Sea Salt, which comes from the Dead Sea and is in all kinds of body products that lots of us use on a daily basis. In short, we learned that it’s great for different types of arthritis, because when used on the hands (in a scrub or raw), the minerals absorb into your skin and boosts circulation. Additionally, it’s awesome for acne and psoriasis, and even for allergies. The part that made the most sense, was the benefit forĀ wrinkles. Wikipedia claims a 40% decrease in wrinkles for those who used it on their face and body regularly. Makes sense, with skin constantly regenerating and all.

Then, we learned how to fill out 1099 forms for our contract employees. Did you know you can hand-write them? We didn’t! Thanks to Mike Aniceto, our always ridiculously helpful accountant over at Heald Hoffmeister and Company. Also, it only took me three tries to fill out the first one! šŸ™‚

Even more fascinating though, was a large conversation (and the research that followed) about the difference between Perfume and Cologne, because when I bought a bottle of Chanel ChanceĀ and the guy at Macy’s explained the difference between this (eau de toilette) or another one I liked, (a eau de cologne) I thought I chose the longer-lasting one. In reality, he actually totally told me the opposite info that he should have, and I ended up with expensive Chanel toilet water. Ah well, it smells nice.

  • Perfume (or eau de parfum, or parfum de toilette) – Highest concentration of essential oils (30ish%), only a spray or two will suffice, will last 6-8 hours or longer. Most expensive.
  • CologneĀ (or eau de cologne)- More subtle smell, only lasting 2-3 hours. Only 2-5% essential oils. Will need many sprays reapplied throughout the day. Colognes can be both male or female (didn’t know that).
  • Eau De Toilette – Loaded with alcohol and water, and a combo of 2-8% oils that for whatever reason, are less potent than cologne based on the ratio of fillers. Typically less expensive except in some designer brands.

So, now you know! When we got home we went through all of our perfumes and colognes to see which ones were which and were sort of surprised at some, and not at others. Either way, it was an interesting discovery.