EDT, EDP, Extrait: choosing the right concentration
The same perfume often exists in several versions — EDT, EDP, Extrait. Behind these abbreviations lies the concentration of essence, which changes everything: longevity, sillage, price.
In front of a bottle, we often read “EDT”, “EDP” or “Extrait” without always knowing what it means. Yet it is one of the most useful pieces of information: it indicates the concentration of perfume essence, that is, the proportion of aroma materials in the alcohol. The higher it is, the longer the perfume lasts and the stronger it projects — but the more it costs.
Here is how to find your way around, from the lightest to the most intense.
Eau de Cologne (EDC) — 2 to 5%
The lightest and freshest. Designed to be applied generously and reapplied during the day, it relies on citrus and lively notes. Longevity: 1 to 2 hours.
- To discover: Colonia by Acqua di Parma or Lime Basil & Mandarin by Jo Malone London. See all eaux de Cologne.
Eau de Toilette (EDT) — 5 to 15%
Fresh, easy to wear, ideal for the day and fine weather. Longevity: 3 to 5 hours. In our catalogue it is nonetheless a minority: there are roughly three eaux de parfum for every eau de toilette.
- To discover: Sauvage, Acqua di Giò or Cool Water. See all eaux de toilette.
Eau de Parfum (EDP) — 15 to 20%
The best balance, and the most versatile choice today. Present without excess, it lasts a good part of the day. Longevity: 6 to 10 hours.
- To discover: Coco Mademoiselle, Black Opium or Baccarat Rouge 540. See all eaux de parfum.
Extrait de Parfum — 20 to 40%
The purest and most concentrated form. A rich, deep, tenacious sillage: a few dabs are enough. Longevity: up to 24 hours. Often reserved for grand occasions and the most upmarket collections.
Which concentration to choose?
- For the day, the office, summer: an EDT or an EDC, fresh and discreet.
- For versatile use: the EDP, the best compromise between longevity and presence.
- For the evening or to make an impression: an extrait, or an EDP from the amber or gourmand family.
- Tip: a higher concentration does not make a perfume “better” — just more tenacious. The choice of scent family remains the most important.
Longevity also depends on your skin, the season and how you apply it. To find the perfume and the concentration that suit you, take our scent questionnaire: it advises you on both.
For some of the perfumes mentioned, the notes, years and concentrations are taken from unofficial sources (not from the house); the relevant page says so.