Extrait de Parfum vs Eau de Parfum vs Eau de Toilette
The same fragrance can be sold in several strengths, and the label on the bottle tells you which. Here is what each name means and how to choose.
The four main concentrations
| Type | Typical perfume oil | Typical wear |
|---|---|---|
| Extrait de Parfum (Parfum) | 20 to 40% | 8 to 15+ hours |
| Eau de Parfum (EDP) | 15 to 20% | 6 to 8 hours |
| Eau de Toilette (EDT) | 5 to 15% | 3 to 5 hours |
| Eau de Cologne (EDC) | 2 to 5% | 1 to 2 hours |
These ranges are industry conventions rather than legal rules, so they vary between brands. Skin, weather and the notes themselves also change how long any fragrance lasts.
Extrait de Parfum
The most concentrated form. More oil, less alcohol. It lasts the longest, sits closest to the skin and reveals its notes slowly. Best if you want one application to carry you through the day and evening.
Eau de Parfum
The most common choice for luxury fragrance today. A good balance of strength and projection. It usually needs a top-up if you want it to last into the evening.
Eau de Toilette
Lighter and brighter, often built around fresh citrus and green notes. Easy to wear in the day, but it fades faster, especially in heat.
Eau de Cologne
Very light and refreshing. Designed to be splashed on generously and reapplied.
Does higher concentration mean a stronger smell?
Not exactly. Higher concentration mostly means longer. Alcohol lifts a fragrance off the skin quickly, which is why an EDT can feel loud for the first half hour and then disappear. An extrait has less alcohol, so it often feels softer at first and then simply stays.
Which should you choose?
- Choose an extrait if you want your fragrance to last from morning into night, you don't want to reapply, or you live somewhere hot where lighter fragrances burn off fast.
- Choose an EDP if you like a noticeable trail and don't mind a top-up.
- Choose an EDT for a light daytime scent you can reapply freely.
All three AAPLOO fragrances, MADNO Forever, ALPHA Authentic and RARE Amore, are Extrait de Parfum at 30% perfume oil.
