The world of fragrances is a vast one, to say the least, and it can be completely overwhelming to try and navigate all of the different types of fragrances, scents, notes, and more. Long gone are the days of Axe body spray and cheap drugstore options, as the scent you choose can not only make a lasting impression but can totally become part of your unique aesthetic. From the different types of fragrances to fragrance families and how to choose the best scent for you, check out the complete guide to men’s fragrances for everything you need to know about colognes, aftershaves, and more. 

The Different Types of Fragrances

• Aftershave: As the name suggests, an aftershave is a liquid, gel, oil, or other substance used after you shave, and its purpose is actually to protect your skin. When you shave, you leave behind a bunch of tiny little cuts that can easily become infected; an aftershave helps disinfect those tiny cuts and helps kill bacteria and/or other toxins that may be on your face. Alcohol-based aftershaves notoriously sting after applying them because they act as a disinfectant – think a low-alcohol hand sanitizer for your face – but a more natural aftershave, like one made with jojoba oil or coconut oil, will give you the benefits of a traditional aftershave while acting as a moisturizer. 
• Eau Fraiche: The term “Eau Fraiche” is translated to “freshwater,” which makes sense considering it contains the lowest amount of perfume oil in a fragrance – typically, 1-3% – and is diluted mostly with water and a bit of alcohol. This type of fragrance usually stays on the skin for about one to two hours as well and is considered somewhat of a “lightweight” in the fragrance world. 
• Eau De Cologne: This type of fragrance is a bit stronger than Eau Fraiche, as it typically features a concentration of 2-4% perfume oil dissolved mostly in alcohol with a bit of water. An eau de cologne typically lasts for about two to four hours on the skin, and because of its light and balanced scent, it’s an excellent choice for a summer or warm weather fragrance. 
• Eau De Toilette: An eau de toilette is a type of fragrance that usually has anywhere from 5-15% oil concentration, and will typically last for about three to four hours, making it the perfect type of fragrance to wear to the office, a business meeting, or to an upscale daytime event. 
• Eau De Parfum: This type of fragrance contains about 15-20% of pure perfume essence, meaning that it will typically last anywhere from four to five hours, and will often cost twice as much as an eau de toilette. 
• Parfum: A parfum is the strongest in the fragrance family, containing anywhere from 20-30% oil along with a mixer like water and/or alcohol. 

The Different Types of Fragrance Families