Eau de Cologne (EDC)
The lightest concentration, roughly 2 to 5% fragrance oil. Fresh and short-lived, usually a couple of hours.
Eau de Toilette (EDT)
Roughly 5 to 15% fragrance oil. Brighter and fresher, with moderate wear time. Dior Sauvage, Acqua di Gio and Versace Eros are classic EDTs.
Eau de Parfum (EDP)
Roughly 15 to 20% fragrance oil. Usually richer and longer-lasting than the EDT version, with a warmer dry down. Bleu de Chanel EDP and YSL Y EDP are great examples.
Parfum / Extrait
The most concentrated, roughly 20 to 30% or more. Dense and long-lasting, often sitting closer to the skin. Le Male Elixir is a parfum.
Same name, different scent
Flankers aren't just stronger versions. An EDP or Parfum is often reformulated with different notes, so the same name can smell noticeably different.
Which should you buy?
Choose EDT for fresh, daytime and warm-weather wear. Choose EDP or Parfum for longer wear, cooler weather and evenings.
