What does perfume concentration mean?

Concentration indicates the percentage of aromatic oils present in a fragrance. This percentage directly influences the intensity of the scent, its longevity on the skin, and the evolution of the olfactory notes over time.

Generally speaking, the higher the concentration of essence, the more intense and long-lasting the fragrance will be. However, this doesn't mean that a higher concentration is always the best choice: everything depends on the occasion, the season, and your personal preferences.

The main concentrations used in perfumery are:

• Eau Fraîche (EF)
• Eau de Cologne (EDC)
• Eau de Toilette (EDT)
• Eau de Parfum (EDP)
• Parfum
• Extrait de Parfum

---

Quick comparison of concentrations

Concentration	Aromatic oils	Approximate longevity	Intensity
Eau Fraîche	1–3 %	1–2 hours	Very light
Eau de Cologne (EDC)	2–5 %	2–4 hours	Light
Eau de Toilette (EDT)	5–15 %	4–6 hours	Medium
Eau de Parfum (EDP)	15–20 %	6–10 hours	High
Parfum	20–30 %	8–12 hours	Very high
Extrait de Parfum	30–40 %	12–24 hours or more	Maximum

---

Eau Fraîche (EF)

The lightest and most refreshing concentration.

Concentration

1–3 %

Longevity

1–2 hours.

Ideal for

• After showering.
• Very hot climates.
• People looking for a very subtle scent.

---

Eau de Cologne (EDC)

Classic colognes contain a higher concentration than an Eau Fraîche, but are still light and fresh. They typically feature citrus, herbal, or aromatic notes.

Concentration

2–5 %

Longevity

2–4 hours.

Ideal for

• Daily use.
• Spring and summer.
• Reapplying several times a day.

---

Eau de Toilette (EDT)

It is one of the most popular concentrations thanks to its balance of freshness, longevity, and price.

Concentration

5–15 %

Longevity

4–6 hours.

Ideal for

• Work.
• Office.
• Daily use.
• Warm climates.

---

Eau de Parfum (EDP)

Eau de Parfum offers a higher concentration of essence, providing superior longevity and a more intense evolution of the fragrance.

Concentration

15–20 %

Longevity

6–10 hours.

Ideal for

• Daily use.
• Events.
• Autumn and winter.
• Those seeking greater staying power.

---

Parfum

Also known as Perfume or Perfume Extract, it features a high concentration of aromatic oils and excellent longevity.

Concentration

20–30 %

Longevity

8–12 hours.

Ideal for

• Special events.
• Dinners.
• Evenings.
• Luxury fragrances.

---

Extrait de Parfum

It is the most concentrated and exclusive form of a fragrance. It contains the highest proportion of aromatic oils and usually offers a richer evolution and exceptional staying power on the skin.

Concentration

30–40 %

Longevity

12–24 hours or even more, depending on the composition and skin type.

Ideal for

• Collectors.
• Niche perfumery.
• Special occasions.
• Those seeking maximum intensity and longevity.

---

Which one should you choose?

If you're looking for freshness

✔ Eau Fraîche

✔ Eau de Cologne

---

For daily use

✔ Eau de Toilette

---

If you want a balance between longevity and intensity

✔ Eau de Parfum

---

For special occasions

✔ Parfum

---

If you seek maximum luxury and staying power

✔ Extrait de Parfum

---

Is concentration the only factor?

No. The longevity of a perfume also depends on:

• The olfactory family.
• The quality of the ingredients.
• Skin type.
• Hydration.
• Ambient temperature.
• Humidity.
• The area where it is applied.

For example, an oriental perfume with a medium concentration may last longer than a citrus perfume with a higher concentration, due to the nature of their raw materials.

---

Conclusion

There is no single best concentration. Each one meets different needs and can be the ideal choice depending on the moment, the season, or the effect you want to achieve.

Knowing these differences will allow you to choose the perfect fragrance and enjoy a much more satisfying experience.