What the words on the bottle mean, and why the same name can smell different in each.
By Shreya S · Last reviewed 15 November 2026
What do the labels mean?
They describe how much perfume oil is dissolved in alcohol. Roughly: parfum or extrait has about 20 to 30 percent, eau de parfum (EDP) 15 to 20, eau de toilette (EDT) 5 to 15, and eau de cologne 2 to 5. These ranges are industry conventions rather than legal rules, so one brand’s EDT can be stronger than another’s EDP.
How long does each last?
As a rough guide, cologne a couple of hours, EDT three to five, EDP five to eight and parfum longer, though the materials matter as much as the concentration. Woods, amber and musk last; citrus vanishes quickly whatever the strength.
Is the EDT just a weaker EDP?
Often not. Houses frequently rework the formula for each version, so the EDT may be brighter and fresher and the parfum warmer and closer to the skin. Chanel No. 5, for example, exists in several versions that smell noticeably different. Always test the exact version you plan to buy.
Is stronger always better?
No. Parfum tends to sit close to the skin rather than fill a room, while a fresh EDT can be perfect for heat and offices. Newer formats include hair mists, body oils and perfume “elixirs”, which sit at the strong end. Apply to pulse points and clothes for longer wear, and store bottles away from light and heat.
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