EDP, EDT, Perfume: what are the differences?

Understanding perfume concentrations to make the right choice

When buying a perfume, you often have a choice between several concentrations: Perfume, Eau de Parfum (EDP), Eau de Toilette (EDT) or Eau de Cologne (EDC). These names indicate the percentage of aromatic concentrate in the composition. Here's everything you need to know to choose.

1. Perfume (or Extrait): maximum concentration

Perfume (also called Extrait de Parfum) is the most concentrated form of essential oils, typically with <strong>20-30% aromatic concentrate</strong>. It's the most luxurious and expensive format.

<strong>Characteristics:</strong>

• Concentration: 20-30%
• Longevity: 6-12 hours, sometimes more
• Sillage: Powerful but refined
• Price: Highest
• Application: A few drops are enough

In Perfumdle, <strong>9 perfumes</strong> have this concentration, including:

• N°5 by Chanel - The absolute icon in Perfume version
• Joy by Jean Patou - The world's most expensive perfume at launch
• Aromatics Elixir by Clinique - Intense aromatic chypre

2. Eau de Parfum (EDP): the best compromise

Eau de Parfum typically contains <strong>15-20% aromatic concentrate</strong>. It's now the most popular concentration, offering an excellent balance between longevity, intensity and price.

<strong>Characteristics:</strong>

• Concentration: 15-20%
• Longevity: 4-8 hours
• Sillage: Moderate to strong
• Price: High but reasonable
• Application: 2-3 sprays are enough

<strong>189 perfumes</strong> in Eau de Parfum in our collection:

• Shalimar by Guerlain - Iconic oriental
• Angel by Thierry Mugler - Revolutionary gourmand
• J'adore by Dior - Modern floral bestseller
• La Vie Est Belle by Lancôme - Star feminine gourmand
• Baccarat Rouge 540 by Maison Francis Kurkdjian - Contemporary cult

3. Eau de Toilette (EDT): freshness and lightness

Eau de Toilette contains <strong>5-15% aromatic concentrate</strong>. Lighter than EDP, it's perfect for daily use, especially during the day or in hot seasons.

<strong>Characteristics:</strong>

• Concentration: 5-15%
• Longevity: 3-5 hours
• Sillage: Light to moderate
• Price: Affordable
• Application: 3-4 sprays, reapplication possible

<strong>93 perfumes</strong> in Eau de Toilette in Perfumdle:

• Miss Dior - Classic chypre (1947)
• Eau Sauvage by Dior - Revolutionary aromatic citrus (1966)
• CK One by Calvin Klein - Iconic unisex of the 90s
• Sauvage by Dior - Current worldwide bestseller
• Terre d'Hermès - Elegant spicy woody

4. Eau de Cologne (EDC): pure freshness

Eau de Cologne is the lightest form, with only <strong>3-5% aromatic concentrate</strong>. Historically based on citrus notes, it offers an immediate but short-lived feeling of freshness.

<strong>Characteristics:</strong>

• Concentration: 3-5%
• Longevity: 1-2 hours
• Sillage: Very light
• Price: Most affordable
• Application: Generous, frequent reapplication

<strong>6 eau de cologne</strong> in our selection:

• Lime Basil & Mandarin by Jo Malone - Aromatic citrus (1999)
• Wood Sage & Sea Salt by Jo Malone - Aromatic woody (2014)
• Colonia by Acqua di Parma - Classic Italian citrus (1916)

Concentration comparison table

How to choose the right concentration?

The choice of concentration depends on several factors:

• Use : Day or evening? EDT is perfect for daytime, EDP or Perfume for special occasions.
• Season : In summer, opt for lighter concentrations (EDT, EDC). In winter, EDP and Perfumes reveal their complexity better.
• Skin type : Dry skin retains fragrances less: prefer EDP or Perfume.
• Budget : EDT offers the best value for daily use.
• Desired intensity : Discreet or bold sillage? Adjust the concentration accordingly.

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