EDT vs. EDP vs. Parfum: The Ultimate Fragrance Concentration Guide | Scenclave

Have you ever found a scent you loved, only to realize it comes in two or three different versions? You pick up the bottle and see cryptic labels like Eau de Toilette or Eau de Parfum.

If you’ve ever felt confused standing at the perfume counter (or browsing online at Scenclave), you aren’t alone.

One of the most common questions we getis: "Which one lasts longer?" or "Is the Parfum version worth the extra cost?"

The answer lies in concentration. Understanding these categories is the secret to finding a fragrance that fits your lifestyle and lasts as long as you need it to. Here is your ultimate guide to fragrance concentrations.

It’s All About the Oil

At its core, the difference between these categories comes down to the ratio of perfume oil to alcohol/water.

• More Oil: Stronger scent, longer longevity, typically higher price.

• Less Oil: Lighter scent, shorter longevity, more affordable.

Let’s break down the three major players you’ll find in our store.

1. Eau de Toilette (EDT)

• Concentration: 5% to 15% perfume oil.

• Longevity: 3 to 4 hours.

The Vibe:

Eau de Toilette is the most popular fragrance category worldwide. It is lighter, fresher, and focuses heavily on "top notes"—those first scents you smell immediately after spraying (like citrus, crisp fruits, or light florals).

When to wear it:

Because it isn't overpowering, EDT is the perfect choice for daily wear, the office, or hot summer days. It projects well initially but fades gently. If you like to switch up your scent from day to night, an EDT is your best friend.

2. Eau de Parfum (EDP)

• Concentration: 15% to 20% perfume oil.

• Longevity: 5 to 8 hours.

The Vibe:

Eau de Parfum is the industry standard for luxury fragrances. It has a higher concentration of oil, which gives it more "body." While you still smell the top notes, the "heart" and "base" notes (like woods, spices, and musk) are much more prominent.

When to wear it:

This is the versatile powerhouse. It’s strong enough to last through a full workday or a date night without being suffocating. At Scenclave, most of our best-sellers fall into this category because they offer the best balance of longevity and value.

3. Parfum (Also called Pure Parfum or Extrait)

• Concentration: 20% to 40% perfume oil.

• Longevity: 8 to 12+ hours (sometimes 24 hours).

The Vibe:

This is the highest concentration available. Parfum is dense, oily, and sits closer to the skin. Paradoxically, because it has less alcohol, it may not "project" across the room as aggressively as an EDT, but it creates a lasting scent bubble around you that refuses to quit.

When to wear it:

Save this for special occasions, long events (like weddings), or winter months when you want a scent that cuts through the cold. A little goes a long way—usually, two sprays are enough for the entire day.