In everyday language, the term "perfume" is often used in a generic way to refer to various types of olfactory compositions, ranging from perfume extract to eau de toilette or eau de parfum. However, there is a fundamental difference in concentration between eau de toilette and eau de parfum.
With a direct influence on intensity, longevity, application, and price of the product, the concentration of different forms of perfumes becomes an essential criterion when choosing an eau de toilette, eau de parfum, or perfume extract for oneself or as a gift. Le Studio des Parfums teaches you how to distinguish eau de toilette, eau de parfum, and perfume extract by scent.
What do we mean by "perfume"?
A blend of essential oils and other natural and/or chemical substances forms what is known as the concentrate in the world of perfumery. This concentrate is at the core of creating eau de toilette, eau de parfum, and perfume extracts.
The concentrate is then combined with a carrier, in this case, ethyl alcohol, in which it is diluted for better diffusion of its fragrance. The concentration of aromatic concentrate and alcohol in a perfume is not subject to any official regulations, which is why the composition of an eau de toilette or perfume can vary significantly from one perfumery house to another.
The concentration of fragrance oil is the key factor that differentiates each type of fragrance: it determines the intensity of the sillage, the longevity on the skin, and ultimately the price of the product.
Eau de toilette: between freshness and lightness
Delicate and understated, eau de toilette is typically defined by a concentration of between 7 and 10% of perfume concentrate. It subtly scents the skin, leaving a decidedly pleasant trail in its wake.
In this sense, the production of eau de toilette is reminiscent of that of the timeless eau de Cologne, which contains an average of 2 to 7% of aromatic ingredients and whose notes evoke freshness and cleanliness.
Eau de toilette is often compared to eau de parfum. Because its notes are more ephemeral than those of its counterpart, it is especially favored during the summer season, while eau de parfum is more commonly used as an everyday product.
Eau de toilette (EDT) is the ideal choice for daily use: light and accessible, it suits a wide variety of olfactory profiles. It is also recommended for sensitive skin, as its lower concentration reduces the risk of irritation.
Eau de parfum, a long-lasting fragrance
More volatile than perfume extract but more enduring than eau de toilette, eau de parfum is undoubtedly the perfect compromise. Its formulation requires approximately 10 to 20% perfume concentrate and 90% vol alcohol, while eau de toilette is made with 80% vol alcohol.
Eau de parfum can be worn throughout the day. Its longevity on the skin is satisfactory for about 6 hours, compared to 3 to 5 hours for eau de toilette. These two olfactory compositions can also be applied in addition to perfume extract for a strong character trail.
Thanks to its higher concentration, Eau de Parfum (EDP) reveals its base notes with greater depth and longevity than Eau de Toilette (EDT).
It's the preferred format for both refined everyday use and special occasions—and often the ideal starting point for defining your signature scent. For those with sensitive skin, it's advisable to test the perfume or eau de parfum on a small area of skin before daily use.
L’extrait de parfum, a Highly Sensory Concentrate
Perfume extract is undoubtedly the most concentrated solution of them all. It embodies the perfume in its purest form. A master perfumer typically needs around 20 to 40% of raw materials diluted in 90% vol alcohol to create an authentic perfume extract.
Unlike eau de parfum or eau de toilette, perfume extract is formulated without water, hence its distinctive nobility and intoxicating intensity, linked to heart and base notes that compete in power. Despite its particularly high cost, perfume extract is less popular in perfumery than eau de parfum.
With a concentration of fragrance oils of up to 40 %, the perfume extract offers an intense scent trail whose base notes can last 8 to 12 hours on the skin. Reserved for special occasions or for those seeking a truly unique signature scent, this type of perfume should be applied in very small amounts. People with sensitive skin should also perform a patch test beforehand.
In our studio, eau de parfum is not just a combination of delicate scents. It also symbolizes a true experience, as our tailor-made creation workshops offer you the opportunity to imagine the eau de parfum of your dreams using the 100 exclusive notes from our iconic perfume organ. Thanks to Le Studio des Parfums, experience a timeless moment in the heart of Marais.
