Brand Name Colognes – Learn And Choose Wisely

What is Cologne?

Cologne is a German city where the very first modern perfume was created under the name eau de cologne. Today, cologne is a word usually used to describe men’s fragrances. Eau de cologne, or just cologne, has now become a generic term.

Cologne’s base notes could last up to 12 hours on you, depending on the brand.

Eau De Cologne

Eau de cologne, French for "water from Cologne", is a spirit-citrus perfume, originally invented by Johann Maria Farina of Cologne, Germany. However in recent decades the term has become generic for a weakly concentrated perfume of any kind.

Eau De Toilette

Eau de Toilette is a perfumed liquid lighter than cologne and used as a skin freshener. This is a more subtle fragrance scent and is perfect for everyday use.

Normally eau de toilette lasts for 2 to 4 hours.

After-Shave - Or Is It Aftershave?

After-shave is actually a two-word term… however, you’ll find 3 versions of this term: after-shave, after shave and aftershave - a scented toiletry product used on the skin after shaving.

After shave comes in gel, lotion or balm. Men apply aftershave to close pores, sooth irritated skin and to get a fresh feel after shaving. Learn more about after-shave…

A men’s after shave is usually a part of a fragrance product line and for a scented effect can be used in two ways:

• As a base fragrance layer, applied before cologne or any other cologne products.


• As the fragrance product of preference for a subtle hint of your favorite fragrance.

Scentiments.com recommends applying an after-shave with the same fragrance as the cologne you're wearing to layer up your favorite scent and prevent a "scent crash".

Cologne Strength

The strength of men's products differs from that of women's fragrances. Here is a quick reference – in order from strongest to weakest:

• Eau de Toilette - a perfume solution with a 3-8% aromatic compound in an oil and water base.


• Cologne/Eau de Cologne has a typical concentration of about 2-5% aromatic compounds.


• After Shave - the weakest with a 1-5% percent fragrance.

So, What Now?

So now that you know all about the terminology and strengths of men’s fragrances, what next?

• Well, you can read more about these terms in the perfume glossary terms page – find the link on the right panel. Did we leave something out, please contact us and let us know. We’d love to hear from you!


• You can also take a walk down cologne lane by browsing through the brand name colognes collection and shop away!

Then, all you have to do is order online through our secure system. Need a friendly voice? No problem, call us toll free at 1-800-685-7321. We’re happy to assist you.

Read about – Fragrance, How To Choose

Read about - How To Choose Perfume – Learn About Perfume Strength