So, what is going on with all these different terms for fragrances? What do they actually mean? And most important, should you care if you buy EDT, EDP or parfum? Lets talk about what all these french terms in the fragrance world mean.
If you like to smell good, you likely stumble upon the terms, EDT (Eau de toilette), EDP (Eau de Parfum) and Parfum when looking to buy a fragrance. These sound like really fancy terms, but they are not. These terms are in French language. Why in french? Well look it up. Just kidding. They are in french because well, it sounds cool huh?
Being serious now, it is because the French are know as the perfume culture. Specifically the Grasse city, which is known for being the “capital” of perfumes. This is why perfume terms are in french, and it also helps to make them universal terms.
What does eau de toilette (EDT) means
Eau de toilette is the most “smooth” of fragrances, with the least amount of aromatic compounds and the most amount of alcohol. Is a more “light” perfume. These are ideal for a day to day situation.
Due to its higher alcohol concentration than EDP (Eau de Parfum) and Parfum it may go “bad” sooner. But if you are going to use it within 1-2 years after opening i wouldn’t worry about the perfume going “bad”. They are typically a lighter scent and they can be ideal to be used everyday to work or school.
What does Eau de Parfum (EDP) means?
Eau de Parfum means “water of perfume” and it typically has a higher concentration of fragrance and less alcohol than Eau de Toilette (EDT). This may be better suited for a situation in which you meed a longer duration than EDT, around six hours. So its great for going out with friends or even for work, that is if you want for others to notice your smell.
Since it has a higher concentration of perfume, it may last longer than a Eau de Toilette (EDT). It may also smell stronger.
What does parfum means
This is the most potent form of perfume, it means perfume but in french. This type of fragrance has the highest concentration of perfume oil. Perfume oil is a blend of aromatic compounds. Parfum will typically last longer than Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum.
If you want to really make an impression and want the most long lasting fragrance, then parfum wil be ideal for you. If you ask me, it is ideal for special occasions or to have a very “strong“ and pleasant smell.
Does it really matter which one you pick?
I would advice that you pick a fragrance by its smell and not by its concentration of perfume oil. I sometimes bought parfum that seems to last a lot less than it should and sometimes bought Eau de Toilette that has great longevity.
Not to mention that the smell its the most important thing here. You need to make sure you like the smell of your fragrance, it doesn’t matter the type of it. Always try a fragrance in person before you buy it, or get a sample online. Try it on both your clothes and in your skin. Some perfumes smell a lot better in your clothes but in your skin, it will stink (not literally). Always remember that smell its subjective, something you think smells great may not smell great to others, use reviews only as a guide.
These are guidelines not exceptions
Depending on brand, where you look for information and other factors, you may find different percentages of concentration when it comes to perfume oil for the different types of frangrances (EDT,EDP and Parfum). As i said earlier, buy what smells best for you and on your skin. Of course some fragrances are better suited for some occasions (work, school or going out) or times of the year(summer or winter) but once you know the basics then shop what you think smells the best regardless if it is EDT, EDP or Parfum.
