Eau de Parfum, Toilette, Cologne and Extrait: Fragrance Concentrations Explained

What actually changes

The key difference is the percentage of fragrance concentrate dissolved in alcohol: the higher it is, the more intense and long-lasting the scent (though not necessarily "better"). It also changes the way the notes reveal themselves, as higher concentrations tend to bring out the base notes.

Eau de cologne and eau fraîche

These are the lightest concentrations, generally around 2-6%: fresh, immediate and perfect for warm weather or anyone who prefers a discreet veil of scent. Longevity is short, so they invite you to reapply throughout the day.

Eau de toilette and eau de parfum

Eau de toilette (roughly 6-12%) is versatile and easy to wear day to day, with good freshness and moderate staying power. Eau de parfum (roughly 12-20%) is the most common concentration in contemporary perfumery: rich, long-lasting and suited to almost any occasion.

Extrait de parfum

Extrait (or parfum, often above 20%) is the most concentrated and precious form: a few drops are enough, the trail is intimate yet enduring, and the raw materials shine in all their quality. It is frequently the choice of collectors and of the most exclusive limited editions.

How to choose the right concentration

For daytime and summer, reach for cologne and eau de toilette; for evening and winter, eau de parfum and extrait. Skin matters too: on dry skin higher concentrations fade faster, and a richer formula can help them last.

Many houses offer the same fragrance in several concentrations, and our catalogue makes them easy to compare side by side.