Shopping for perfumes can be pretty overwhelming given the wide range of selections. Not only are there countless brands and scents available, there are also different fragrance concentrations- the one that boggle our minds the most. EDP, EDT, EDC… what exactly is the difference? Here’s a simple guide to make your next perfume shopping trip less painful.
- Parfum
Parfum or pure perfume is composed of anywhere between 20% to 30% pure perfume essence, making it the most concentrated and expensive of all fragrance options. It also lasts the longest, usually six to eight hours.
It is recommended for those of you who prefer richer and more complex perfume that can last up all day. Also, according to Perfume.com, people with sensitive skin may do better with parfums because they have far less alcohol content than other options, therefore are not as likely to dry out the skin.
- Eau de Parfum (EDP)
Eau de Parfum (EDP), like Chloé Signature EDP and Coach New York EDP, is the next highest, with a concentration of between 15% to 20%. This fragrance type is less expensive than Parfums and typically last for four to five hours. EDP is one of the more popular fragrance types and generally more suited for evenings (perfect for dates!)
- Eau de Toilette (EDT)
Next up is Eau de Toilette (EDT) such as Hermes Un Jardin En Mediterranee EDT, with a fragrance concentration of between 5% to 15%, making it cheaper than EDP. EDT fragrance usually last for two to three hours, and is the most popular type of fragrance available. While EDP is considered by some to be for evenings and nightwear, EDT is often considered as best for daywear.
Also recommended for those of you who want to try a new fragrance but don’t want to invest in it right away.
- Eau de Cologne (EDC)
Eau de Cologne (EDC) has a much lower concentration of fragrance than all of the above. EDC typically consist of 2% to 4% fragrance and a high concentration of alcohol. It is less costly compared to those mentioned above but the scent usually only lasts for up to two hours.
This is often marketed to men but is also a perfect pick for both men and women who want something subtle and fresh.
- Eau de Fraiche (EDF)
The most diluted fragrance type, usually with just 1% to 3% perfume essence that can last for up to 2 hours. However, although Eau de Fraiche (EDF) has the lowest fragrance concentration, it may not contain a high amount of alcohol because on top of the fragrance, the remainder of EDF is mostly water.
EDF is the perfect fragrance option for those who want a subtle everyday scent- shining amongst the crowd without being over the top.
