Perfumes are available in more or less concentrated forms and the way they are designed are governed by two criteria: the degree of the concertration of perfume base and the strenth of the alcohol added to it. These two quantities vary considerably depending on the make of the raw materials employed. The proportions of the raw materials used in the formula also vary, depending if it is for the extrait or it's derivitives.

 Perfume, or extrait, is the most concentrated form of fragrance and may contain up to 300 different elements in its blend with a 20 to 30 percent concentration of essential and fragrance oils in an alcohol base and a fragrance time of three to eight hours.  Perfume is the longest lasting and intense means of perfuming oneself. .

  Eau de parfum is also long lasting, with an 8 to 15 percent concentration of essential and fragrance oils diluted in alcohol and distilled water base. It is generally sold in atomizers and is the most popular product on the market today. 

  Eau de toilette  suits those who are looking for something light and discreet. A lighter version of scent with a 4 to 8 percent of concentration of essential and fragrance oils diluted in an alcohol and distilled water base. In order to provide maximum freshness, the top notes are accentuated.  It will last approximately four to six hours.

 Eau de cologne is a less concentrated scented compound with a ratio of 2 to 5 percent of essential or fragrance oils in an alcohol and distilled water base.  This form of fragrance was originally developed in Italy in the seventeenth century.  However, it is named for the city of Cologne, Germany, because this is the place where it was first marketed succesfully  at the end of the eighteenth century.  It is often used as an after-bath splash and will last for two to four hours.

  Eau fraiche is the lightest scented substance, with a 1 to 3 percent concentration of perfume oils in alcohol and distilled water.  Use a light splash of eau fraiche in hot weather or when engaging in sports.  An old-fashioned  term for eau fraiche is sweet water.