When we explore the world of perfume, we often come across these terms: eau de toilette, eau de parfum, extrait de parfum. Although these terms are used extensively on bottles, they sometimes remain unclear to the general public. And yet, they have a direct influence on how long a fragrance lasts, its intensity, its price and even how you use it. At Fessin Parfums, we help you understand these differences to make an informed choice and find the concentration that's right for you.
What is concentration in perfumery?
Concentration refers to the proportion of fragrance oils (or "juices") contained in a perfume in relation to the alcoholic base. The higher the proportion, the more intense, complex and long-lasting the fragrance.
The same fragrance can exist in different concentrations: a lighter eau de toilette for daytime, a richer eau de parfum for evening, or even an extract for a special occasion.
There are four main concentrations in perfumery:
- Eau de Cologne
- Eau de Toilette
- Eau de Parfum
- Perfume Extract
Each has its own specific features. Let's take a closer look.
Eau de cologne (EDC): ephemeral freshness
Fragrance concentrate content: 2 to 5%.
Eau de cologne is the lightest form of all. It's often based on refreshing citrus, aromatic or aquatic accords.
- Duration on skin: 1 to 2 hours
- Recommended use: in summer, after a shower, for a toning effect
- Price: often more affordable
It's ideal for those seeking a discreet, fleeting "coup de frais" effect. However, it doesn't last very long, and may need to be sprayed several times a day.
L'eau de toilette (EDT): balance and lightness
Fragrance concentrate content: 5 to 12%.
Eau de toilette is undoubtedly the most common form in traditional perfumery. It offers a good compromise between freshness and staying power, making it perfect for everyday use.
- Duration on skin: 3 to 5 hours
- Recommended use: office, daytime, all seasons
- Characteristics: strong top notes, light trail
Eaux de toilette are often bright and luminous, evolving rapidly on the skin. They are particularly suited to those who enjoy subtle fragrance without dominating their surroundings.
Eau de parfum (EDP): intensity and sophistication
Fragrance concentrate content: 12 to 20%.
Eau de Parfum is more concentrated, richer and more persistent. It reveals more of the heart and base notes, enabling a deeper olfactory evolution over the hours.
- Duration on the skin: 6 to 8 hours, sometimes longer
- Recommended use: evening, daily for those who like a strong trail.
- Features: more enveloping, more sensual
Eaux de parfum are perfect for those who want their fragrance to accompany them all day, even into the evening. They often have an assertive, even addictive character.
Perfume extract: pure luxury
Fragrance concentrate content: 20 to 40%.
Perfume extract, also known as pure perfume, is the noblest and most precious form. Highly concentrated, it is often presented in small quantities, sometimes without a spray bottle, and is applied in dabs (wrists, nape of the neck, hollow of the elbow).
- Duration on skin: up to 24 hours
- Recommended use: special occasions, elegant evenings, intimate moments
- Characteristics: very little alcohol, lots of depth
The extract is not necessarily "stronger", but deeper, more nuanced. It reveals the full richness of the composition and is aimed at lovers of exceptional fragrances.
Which concentration is right for your lifestyle?
The choice of concentration depends as much on your skin as on your lifestyle, the season and even your personal style.
- Looking for a discreet, everyday fragrance? Eau de toilette is ideal.
- Want a stronger presence throughout the day? Eau de parfum is for you.
- Do you love perfume like a rare jewel? Choose a perfume extract.
- Would you like to freshen up without leaving a lasting trace? Eau de cologne is just the thing.
At Fessin Parfums, you'll often find several concentrations of the same fragrance. This allows you to adapt your choice according to your needs or desires.
Can the same fragrance vary from one concentration to another?
Yes, even if the name remains the same, the formula may evolve slightly from one concentration to the next. Top notes are often brighter in eau de toilette, whileeau de parfum and extract highlight the heart and base of the composition.
That's why it's not uncommon for a fragrance to seem different to you depending on its version, or even for you to prefer one concentration to another. Don't hesitate to test several variants to find the one that suits you best.
Here are a few tips on how to apply perfume correctly, depending on the concentration.
- Eau de cologne and eau de toilette: spray generously on clothes and body. These are "gesture" fragrances.
- Eau de parfum: just a few sprays on pulse points (wrists, neck, décolleté).
- Perfume extract: apply in light touches, ideally to clean, bare skin, for an intimate, elegant fragrance.
And above all: don't rub your wrists after application. This breaks down the olfactory molecules and alters the fragrance.
At Fessin Parfums: each concentration is a sensory invitation
Our selection honors the great perfume houses, as well as confidential houses with unique creations. We offer a variety of concentrations so that everyone can find the version that suits their personality and everyday life.
Our product sheets detail the concentration of each fragrance and guide you towards the intensity best suited to your use. And if you're not sure which concentration to choose, our customer service team is on hand to help you make the right choice.
Conclusion: a question of balance
Understanding the different fragrance concentrations means better understanding the desired effect, the desired staying power and the daily use you want to make of it. Each concentration has its own charm, function and style.
At Fessin Parfums, we invite you to consider fragrance as an intimate language. Whether you choose a light eau de toilette or a sophisticated extract, the most important thing is that your fragrance accompanies you with precision, emotion and elegance.