Eau de parfum vs eau de toilette: the real difference
The difference between eau de parfum and eau de toilette: concentration, how long each lasts, how they feel and which to choose for day, evening and weather.
The short answer
Eau de parfum has about 15 to 20 percent fragrance oil, and eau de toilette about 5 to 15 percent. EDP lasts longer and feels richer, while EDT is lighter and fresher.
- Test on skin and wait for the dry-down before choosing.
Eau de parfum has a higher concentration of fragrance oil than eau de toilette, usually about 15 to 20 percent versus 5 to 15 percent, so it generally lasts longer and smells richer. Eau de toilette is lighter and fresher, and usually costs less per bottle.
| Type | Typical fragrance oil | How long it usually lasts | Feel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parfum (extrait) | About 20 to 30 percent | Often 8 hours or more | Rich, intimate, a little goes a long way |
| Eau de parfum (EDP) | About 15 to 20 percent | About 5 to 8 hours | Full and rounded |
| Eau de toilette (EDT) | About 5 to 15 percent | About 3 to 5 hours | Lighter, fresher |
| Eau de cologne (EDC) | About 2 to 4 percent | About 2 hours | Very light, quick |
| Eau fraîche or mist | About 1 to 3 percent | An hour or two | Very light, to refresh |
Ranges are approximate, and brands vary. Longevity depends on the fragrance notes, your skin and how you apply it.
Which should you choose?
- Eau de parfum for evenings, cold weather, special occasions and when you want it to last.
- Eau de toilette for daytime, warm weather, the office and when you want something lighter that you can reapply.
- Cologne or mist for a quick refresh after the gym or at your desk.
Does the same perfume smell different in EDP and EDT?
Yes. Many fragrances sold as both EDP and EDT use a slightly different formula, so the EDT often feels brighter and more citrusy, and the EDP deeper and warmer. Try both before choosing.
Value
An EDP costs more but you may use fewer sprays. An EDT is cheaper and easy to reapply. Compare by how often you will wear it.
How do you test?
- Spray on your wrist, not on the paper alone.
- Wait 30 minutes to see how it develops. See perfume notes explained.
- Check again after a few hours.
- Write what you notice in a log.
To make any perfume last, see how to make perfume last longer. The Signature Scent Edit includes the testing log.
Related guides
Read next: How to Apply Perfume: Where and How Much · Perfume Layering: How to Combine Fragrances · How to Choose a Perfume That Suits You
Questions people ask about this
What is the difference between eau de parfum and eau de toilette?
Eau de parfum has more fragrance oil, about 15 to 20 percent versus about 5 to 15 percent, so it usually lasts longer and smells richer. Eau de toilette is lighter and fresher.
Which lasts longer, EDP or EDT?
Eau de parfum generally lasts longer, often about five to eight hours versus three to five for eau de toilette. It depends on the notes and your skin.
Is eau de parfum better than eau de toilette?
Not better, just different. EDP is richer and lasts longer, while EDT is lighter and better for warm weather and daytime.
What is parfum or extrait?
The highest concentration, about 20 to 30 percent, with the longest wear. A small amount goes a long way.
