EDT, EDP and extrait: what the strength on the box really means

3 min read

Strength is the share of perfume oil in the bottle. Here is what changes, and what does not.

Every perfume is perfume oil dissolved in alcohol. The strength on the box tells you how much oil there is. More oil usually means a richer perfume that lasts longer, and a higher price.

The three you will see most

• Eau de toilette (EDT): roughly 5 to 15% oil. Lighter and brighter, usually shorter on skin.
• Eau de parfum (EDP): roughly 15 to 20%. The most common, and a good balance of strength and price.
• Parfum or extrait: roughly 20 to 30%. The richest, closest to the skin, and a little goes a long way.

These ranges are a rough guide. Each house sets its own, so two perfumes with the same label can differ.

What the label does not tell you

• Stronger is not always better. An EDT can be fresher and more citrusy, while the extrait of the same name can be deeper and sweeter.
• Notes matter as much as strength. Amber and oud last longer than citrus at any strength.
• Your skin changes it. The only reliable test is to wear it.

How to choose

For hot weather and the office, look at EDT or a light EDP. For evenings and winter, EDP or extrait. If a perfume comes in more than one strength, try a 3 ml of each and compare them on your own skin for a couple of days.