The Percentages Behind the Names
Concentration refers to the proportion of perfume oil in the blend. As a general guide, Eau de Toilette (EDT) sits around five to fifteen percent, Eau de Parfum (EDP) around fifteen to twenty percent, and Extrait de Parfum, or pure parfum, around twenty to forty percent. These are conventional ranges rather than legal definitions, so they vary between houses — but they explain why the same fragrance can feel quite different across formats.
How Concentration Changes the Wear
More oil generally means greater longevity and a richer, deeper character. As broad guidance, an EDT may last roughly three to six hours, an EDP six to eight, and an extrait eight to twelve or more. Counterintuitively, higher concentrations often sit closer to the skin: an extrait can be intensely long-lasting yet intimate in its sillage, which suits the quiet-luxury mood of the moment.
Why the Box Doesn't Tell the Whole Story
Longevity tracks the materials and your own skin chemistry as much as the percentage on the label. Fragrances rich in heavy base notes such as oud, sandalwood, amber and musk can persist for many hours even in EDT form. Match concentration to intent: an EDT for bright, fresh daytime wear; an EDP for a balanced, all-day presence; an extrait for occasions where you want depth and an intimate, lingering trail. There is no single 'best' — only the right strength for the mood you mean to set.
Longevity tracks the materials and your skin, not the letters on the box.
