What's the difference between EDT, EDP, and Parfum?
Fragrance concentrations determine how long a scent lasts and how strong it projects. Higher concentrations have more perfume oil and last longer on skin.
Concentration Types at a Glance
Type | Oil Concentration | Longevity | Projection |
Eau de Cologne (EDC) | 2-4% | 2-3 hours | Light |
Eau de Toilette (EDT) | 5-15% | 3-5 hours | Moderate |
Eau de Parfum (EDP) | 15-20% | 5-8 hours | Strong |
Parfum/Extrait | 20-40% | 8-12+ hours | Very strong |
Detailed Breakdown
Eau de Cologne (EDC)
Concentration: 2-4% fragrance oils
Lasts: 2-3 hours
Best for: Fresh, light daytime wear
Typically: Citrus-forward, refreshing scents
Application: Can be applied liberally
Eau de Toilette (EDT)
Concentration: 5-15% fragrance oils
Lasts: 3-5 hours
Best for: Daily wear, office, casual occasions
Typically: The most common concentration for men's fragrances
Application: 3-4 sprays for good presence
Eau de Parfum (EDP)
Concentration: 15-20% fragrance oils
Lasts: 5-8 hours
Best for: All-day wear, evening events, dates
Typically: Richer, more complex compositions
Application: 2-3 sprays is often sufficient
Parfum / Extrait de Parfum
Concentration: 20-40% fragrance oils
Lasts: 8-12+ hours
Best for: Special occasions, when you want to make a statement
Typically: The most luxurious, expensive concentration
Application: 1-2 sprays is plenty
How Concentration Affects Scent
The same fragrance in different concentrations may smell slightly different:
EDT versions: Often lighter, fresher, more emphasis on top notes
EDP versions: Richer, deeper, more prominent heart and base notes
Parfum versions: Fullest expression of the scent, most complex
Which Concentration Should You Choose?
Choose EDT if you:
Prefer lighter, fresher scents
Work in close-contact environments
Like to reapply throughout the day
Want an affordable option
Choose EDP if you:
Want all-day performance
Prefer richer, more noticeable scents
Don't want to worry about reapplying
Are wearing fragrance for evening occasions
Choose Parfum if you:
Want maximum longevity
Prefer intimate, skin-hugging scents
Are attending special occasions
Value the most refined concentration
Price Considerations
Higher concentrations generally cost more:
Concentration | Typical Price Factor |
EDT | Base price |
EDP | 1.2-1.5× EDT price |
Parfum | 1.5-2× EDP price |
However, because higher concentrations last longer and require fewer sprays, the cost-per-wear can be similar.
Understanding Scento Listings
On Scento, each fragrance listing shows:
The concentration type (EDT, EDP, Parfum)
Detailed notes (top, heart, base)
Longevity estimates from our community
Similar fragrance recommendations
Common Misconceptions
"EDP is always better than EDT"
Not necessarily. Many classic fragrances were designed as EDTs, and the formulation suits them perfectly. Some people prefer the lighter touch of an EDT.
"Parfum is too strong"
Modern parfum concentrations are designed for intimate wear. They project close to the skin rather than filling a room.
"Higher concentration = more sprays"
Actually the opposite! Higher concentrations require fewer sprays for the same effect.
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Still Need Help?
Need advice on which concentration is right for you? Email us at [email protected] and describe your preferences - we'll recommend the perfect option.