Parfum, Eau de Parfum or Eau de Toilette: What's the Difference?

There's no legal standard, and each brand sets its own numbers, but these ranges are typical:

• Parfum (also called Extrait de Parfum or pure perfume): roughly 20 to 30% fragrance oil, sometimes more.
• Eau de Parfum (EDP): roughly 15 to 20%.
• Eau de Toilette (EDT): roughly 5 to 15%.
• Eau de Cologne (EDC): roughly 2 to 5%.
• Eau Fraîche: usually 1 to 3%.

Treat these as approximate. Two EDPs from different brands can differ noticeably in strength, and a well-made EDT can outperform a weak EDP.

In general, a higher concentration means a fragrance lasts longer and costs more per bottle. It does not always mean it's louder. Parfum and extrait versions often sit closer to the skin and feel richer and smoother, while EDTs frequently feel brighter and more diffusive in the first hour.

Because the balance of ingredients is often adjusted between versions, an EDT and an EDP with the same name can smell subtly different, not just weaker or stronger. The EDT may emphasise sparkling top notes, while the EDP gives more weight to the heart and base.

Brands also release variants with words like Intense, Absolu, Elixir or Noir. These aren't standardised either: sometimes they signal a higher concentration, and sometimes a different recipe altogether. When in doubt, compare the notes and read community feedback rather than assuming Intense simply means stronger.

• For hot weather, office wear or all-day freshness you can reapply, an EDT is often ideal.
• For longer wear, cooler weather or evenings, an EDP is usually the best balance of lasting power and value.
• For special occasions, a parfum extrait gives intimacy and longevity from a very small amount; a little goes a long way.
• If you're on a budget, compare price per millilitre. A larger EDT can sometimes cost less per wear than a small extrait.

• Parfum is always better. Better depends on what you want, and lighter versions can be more pleasant in the heat.
• Cologne means a men's fragrance. Strictly, Eau de Cologne is a light concentration; in everyday American usage, cologne simply means fragrance marketed to men.
• A stronger scent lasts longer. Strength (projection) and longevity are different things; see our guide on making fragrance last.