Hoyip       Apr 21, 2023

Understanding EDC, EDT, and EDP: Decoding the Different Types of Perfumes

When buying perfume, have you ever noticed the labels EDC, EDP, and EDT on the perfume bottle or box? These labels have different meanings and are indications of the concentration of the perfume. So, what do EDC, EDP, and EDT mean in perfumes? In fact, EDC, EDP, and EDT represent the concentration and longevity of the perfume. The concentration of perfume ranges from light to strong as follows: EDC, EDT, EDP, and the strongest concentration is Perfume. The higher the concentration, the stronger and longer-lasting the scent of the perfume. But is it better to have more fragrance in perfume?

In the following paragraphs, we will explain the meanings of EDC, EDP, and EDT in perfumes, as well as whether having more fragrance in perfume is better.

Currently, the concentration of perfumes is mainly divided into the following four categories (from light to strong):

  • Eau de Cologne (Cologne)
  • Eau de Toilette (EDT)
  • Eau de Parfum (EDP)
  • Parfum/Extrait (Perfume)


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1. Eau de Cologne

EDC, also known as Eau de Cologne, has a fragrance concentration of 2%-5% and an alcohol concentration of 60%-70%. Its scent can last for 1-2 hours.

Many people misunderstand the term "Eau de Cologne" and believe that it refers exclusively to men's fragrance. In fact, it is simply a term used to describe a specific concentration level of perfume.

This type of fragrance was first introduced by an Italian, Giovanni Maria Farina, in Cologne, Germany in 1709. Due to its popularity, other brands also began producing Eau de Cologne. The classic example of Eau de Cologne is "4711 Eau de Cologne", named after the shop's address.

The current industry standard for perfume labeling is in French. "Eau de Cologne" refers to a specific fragrance type, which combines citrus notes with the fresh scents of orange blossom, rosemary, and lavender. It has a refreshing effect and is suitable for men to use after bathing or before and after exercising. Some well-known Eau de Cologne fragrances in the market include Zara Blue Hole EDC, Zara Lively Lime & Cedar EDC, Hermès Eau d'Orange Verte EDC, Guerlain Imperiale EDC, and Acqua di Parma Colonia EDC.
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2. Eau de Toilette

EDT is called Eau de Toilette, with a fragrance concentration of 5%-10%, an alcohol concentration of 80%-85%, and a lasting time of 3-4 hours.

This type of perfume is currently the most widely used and sold on the market, with a large capacity and a wide variety of fragrances, making it a popular and affordable choice. Its scent changes are mild and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for first-time perfume users, suitable for dates, home, and office. It gives people a fresher impression and is an ideal perfume for the whole body. Some recommended EDTs are Chanel Chance Eau Fraiche, Chanel No. 5 Eau de Toilette, Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Herba Fresca, Burberry London for Men Eau de Toilette, and Dior Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet Eau de Toilette, which come in commonly available sizes of 30ml, 50ml, 75ml, and 100ml.

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3. Eau de Parfum

EDP stands for Eau de Parfum, with the full name of Parfum Spray. It contains 7%-15% fragrance, 80%-85% alcohol concentration, and has a lasting time of around 5 hours.

This type of perfume has a strong fragrance and is suitable for autumn and winter seasons due to its long-lasting nature. Compared to perfume, it is more affordable in terms of quantity and price, which is the secret to its popularity. There are more fragrances available for women.

It is suitable to be used at daytime banquets or outings with companions, and is more suitable for mature women. It can better demonstrate their charm and grace. Many perfume enthusiasts use this type of fragrance. Some recommended well-known brands of EDP include Hermès Twilly d'Hermès Eau Poivrée, Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Rose Rosae Eau de Parfum, Burberry London Women's Perfume, and Dior J'adore In Joy Eau de Parfum. The common packaging sizes are 30ml and 50ml.

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4. Parfum/Extrait

Perfume, also known as extract or extrait, has the highest concentration of fragrance, ranging from 20% to 30%, and a lower alcohol concentration of 70% to 80%. It has a long-lasting fragrance of 5-7 hours.

This type of perfume has the highest concentration of fragrance and the best quality. It has a long-lasting fragrance and is expensive, but only a drop is needed to make an impact. However, most of the concentrated perfumes are for women, and there are fewer options for men's fragrances.

It is suitable for evening events or formal occasions. Many luxury brands use crystal glass bottles for packaging to emphasize their exclusivity, making them very expensive. Recommended brands of concentrated perfumes include Chanel Bleu de Chanel, Dior Sauvage, Chanel Gabrielle Essence, Armani Si Intense, Burberry Her Intense, Gucci Guilty Absolute/Pour Femme/Pour Homme, and the common package sizes are 7.5ml, 10ml, and 15ml.

9519205351454.jpgMany people believe that the higher the concentration of fragrance in a perfume, the better it is, but this is not necessarily true. While fragrances play an important role in adding scents to perfumes and are especially important for adding pleasant aromas, the key to a good perfume is the balance of scents.

Even in some stronger perfumes, the amount of fragrance added is not excessive because too much fragrance can result in a heavy and even unpleasant scent. Therefore, the concentration of fragrance in perfumes should be adjusted according to the type of perfume to achieve a suitable aroma.

The above is an explanation of the labels EDC, EDP, and EDT in perfumes. If you see these labels on perfume packaging again, you should be able to choose which one is more suitable for you based on your needs.


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