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Perfumery without the marketing: how fragrances are built, what the concentrations mean, and how to find yours.

About Perfumes

Perfume is more than a pleasant scent — it is a composition of aromatic materials that unfold over time. Understanding concentration is the first step to choosing a fragrance that suits your lifestyle, skin, and preference.

Fragrance Concentrations

The concentration of aromatic compounds in a perfume determines its intensity, longevity, and price. Here is a breakdown of the main categories, from lightest to most intense:

Eau Fraîche
< 3%
The lightest form. Mostly water and alcohol with just a trace of fragrance. Very fresh, evaporates quickly — great for hot weather and everyday use.
Eau de Cologne EdC
3–5%
Light and refreshing, typically citrus or fougère-led. Designed for frequent reapplication. A classic daytime choice.
Eau de Toilette EdT
up to 8%
The most versatile category. Moderate intensity, lasts 3–5 hours. Suits a wide range of occasions and fragrance families.
Eau de Parfum EdP
8–15%
Richer and longer-lasting than EdT, typically 5–8 hours. Works particularly well in cooler weather and for evening wear.
Parfum P / Extrait
up to 30%
The purest and most concentrated form. A small amount goes a long way — expect 8–12 hours of wear, often longer. The highest-fidelity expression of a fragrance.

How to Choose

There is no universal answer — the right concentration depends on the fragrance itself, your skin chemistry, the occasion, and the season. A light EdT from a niche house may outlast a heavy EdP from a designer brand. When in doubt, reach out — we are happy to advise.