Extrait de parfum, eau de parfum, eau de toilette, eau de Cologne… These names appear on every bottle, but what do they actually mean? The difference comes down to a single decisive factor: the concentration of fragrant materials. Here is a clear guide to help you choose knowingly.
Concentration is the key to everything
A fragrance is made of a fragrance concentrate diluted in alcohol. The higher the share of concentrate, the more intense, long-lasting and costly to produce the fragrance is. That proportion is what determines the name printed on the bottle.
The main concentration families
- Eau de Cologne (3-5%): very light and fresh, it lasts 1 to 2 hours. Perfect for freshening up, but fleeting.
- Eau de toilette (5-12%): light and easy to wear day to day, it generally lasts 3 to 5 hours.
- Eau de parfum (12-20%): richer and longer-lasting (5 to 8 hours), it is the most common format today.
- Extrait de parfum (20-40%, sometimes more): the highest concentration. A deep sillage and 8 to 12 hours of wear, or more on skin and clothing.
In niche perfumery, extrait de parfum reigns: many independent houses work at concentrations of 25%, 35% or even higher, for compositions of exceptional richness and persistence.
Longevity and sillage: what concentration changes
A higher concentration does not simply mean “stronger”: it also changes the way the fragrance unfolds. An extrait reveals its base notes for longer, gives a denser sillage and often calls for fewer sprays. An eau de toilette, being more volatile, brings the fresh top notes forward but fades faster. It is up to you to choose according to the effect you want and the occasion.
Which concentration should you choose?
- For the office or for summer: an eau de toilette or a light eau de parfum, more discreet.
- For evenings or winter: an extrait de parfum, whose depth and staying power work wonders.
- For maximum longevity: always favour the extrait: you will use less for a longer-lasting result.
Test on your own skin before choosing
Concentration interacts with your skin chemistry: the same fragrance will last differently from one person to the next. That is why we recommend starting with our 2 ml samples before investing in a full bottle. You will discover the true longevity and development of the fragrance on your skin.
Going further
Want to understand what really sets niche perfumery apart? Read our complete guide to niche perfume, or explore our niche fragrances sorted by olfactory family. A question? Get in touch, we will be delighted to advise you.