EDP, EDT, and EDC: A Game of Concentrations

Have you ever been to a perfume shop, picked up your favorite scent, and read some weird labels at the bottom: EDP, EDT, and EDC? Before becoming a perfume reviewer, I was completely unaware of the importance that these ‘weird’ labels held. But, they can be more important than you think. So today I will decipher their meanings to ensure that you can buy perfumes the right way next time.

So here’s the thing. Before buying a perfume, the first thing that anyone would check is whether or not the scent is in line with one’s personality. The second most important thing to look for is the type of concentration that suits you the best. That’s it! This is when you have to give a glance at the labels at the lower end of the scent’s sticker. Here is what each one of these acronyms stand for:

• EDP- Eau De Parfum
• EDT- Eau De Toilette
• EDC- Eau De Cologne

EDP, EDT, and EDC – The Difference

The real difference between EDP, EDT, and EDC versions of perfume lies in the concentration of the raw materials. A more concentrated scent lasts longer on the skin compared to a less concentrated scent. The following information will make things crystal clear.

However, must know that these concentration guidelines are not followed as a rule and there are chances of using a little less or a little more by perfuming companies as per the smell and projection they create. You can read the EDT vs EDT, and Parfum differences of BDC to have a glimpse as to what concentrations are used and how it affects the scent profile.

EDP ( Eau De Parfum)

Eau de Parfum is usually the most common choice of buyers because it contains the highest concentration of all other three options. EDP versions of perfumes usually last for about 8-10 hours. All thanks to a concentration of roughly 15% to 30%. If you are a lover of strong and everlasting smells, then EDP versions will be the right choice for you. One of the best things I find in Eau De Parfum is that it requires a small application but leaves you with powerful results.  

EDT ( Eau De Toilette)

Eau de Toilette, with a concentration of 8% to 14% comes in the second place in terms of strength and longevity. Owing to this concentration, the perfume lasts for about 6-8 hours. Therefore, EDT can be considered as a great option for those who do not want their perfumes to be too strong or too light. You can wear it for day time functions when in need of a fresh and soft scent. You may need 3-4 sprays of the EDT version. Also, I would advise you to spray it on your clothes as this slows down the evaporation rates.

EDC ( Eau De Cologne)

EDC only has a concentration of 7 percent and lasts for up to 2 hours. When looking for pocket perfumes, Eau De Colognes can be a good option. Their lighter cords and comparatively, less intense scents will keep you fresh throughout the day.

Eau Fraiche

Eau Fraiche simply means fresh water and is lightest in comparison to all other concentrations discussed above. The oil concentration of Eau Fraiche is only 1-3 percent. For these reasons, it lasts for only around an hour on skin. This concentration is very popular amongst people who cannot afford the otherwise expensive scents.

It carries the most amount of alcohol and you might end up smelling alcohol more than the fragrance.

Final Thoughts

This is all you should know about perfume concentrations before you make your next purchase. Make sure that you discuss your requirements with the salesman at the perfume store. If you live in LA, click here to find some of the trusted perfume stores you can visit.

Moreover, as winters are around the corner, most of you might be in search of some good perfumes for the chilly season. Don’t forget to check out my article on the best winter scents for women. It will help you pick the best from thousands of scents available in the market.