Eau de toilette is a lightly scented perfume with a high alcohol content. It is traditionally composed of alcohol and various volatile oils, and is usually applied directly to the skin after bathing or shaving. Eau de toilette is a weaker concentration of fragrance than perfume (eau de parfum) and more than cologne (eau de Cologne). The concentration of aromatic ingredients in eau de toilette is typically 5-15% (typical ~10%) aromatic compounds.
Positive aspects of eau de toilette:
- Provides a lighter scent to refresh the skin.
- Less expensive than eau de parfum and parfum.
Negative aspects of eau de toilette:
- Contains a high alcohol content, which can be drying to the skin.
- Fragrance ingredients may be derived from petroleum or natural raw materials, and some fragrance chemicals are linked to serious health problems such as cancer, reproductive and developmental toxicity, allergies and sensitivities.
Ingredients or materials used in eau de toilette:
- Alcohol
- Various volatile oils
- Fragrance mixtures purchased from fragrance houses
- Solvents, stabilizers, UV-absorbers, preservatives, and dyes
