Understanding Perfume Concentrations: From Eau Fraîche to Extrait de Parfum
When shopping for a fragrance, you’ve likely noticed terms like Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, and Extrait de Parfum on bottles. But what do they really mean? The answer lies in concentration: the percentage of pure fragrance essence in a formula.
In this guide, we’ll explain the different perfume concentrations, why their definitions may vary, and why our perfume sprays are crafted as Extrait de Parfum with over 20% concentration, the ideal balance of luxury, intensity, and wearability.
The Truth About Perfume Concentrations
There is no universal rule dictating perfume concentrations. Different brands and perfumers define them in their own way, which is why you might see conflicting information.
For example, some sources claim that Eau de Parfum starts at 8%, while others insist it begins at 12%. Why the differences?
First, every perfumer has their own philosophy on fragrance intensity and longevity. A fresh citrus perfume at 20% concentration might feel lighter than a rich oud-based scent at 15%. Some compositions naturally feel stronger than others.
Second, marketing strategies influence how brands classify their perfumes. Some call a 25% concentration "Extrait de Parfum," while others label it as "Haute Parfumerie." Ultimately, what matters isn’t the percentage alone, but how the fragrance performs on the skin.
Now, let’s break down the different perfume concentrations and how they compare.
Eau Fraîche has the lowest concentration, between 1% and 3%. It is mostly water-based and provides a short-lived, ultra-light scent.
Eau de Cologne (EDC) typically contains 2% to 6% fragrance oils. It is fresh and citrusy, lasting only a few hours.
Eau de Toilette (EDT) contains between 5% and 12% fragrance oil. It has a moderate intensity, making it ideal for daily wear.
Eau de Parfum (EDP) is richer, with a concentration ranging from 12% to 18%. It offers more depth and longevity than Eau de Toilette.
Extrait de Parfum is the highest category, with concentrations starting at 18% and sometimes exceeding 40%. It provides the most luxurious, long-lasting experience.
A higher concentration generally means a longer-lasting fragrance, but the way ingredients are blended, their volatility, and the presence of fixatives also influence how the scent unfolds over time.
Why Our Perfume Sprays Are Extrait de Parfum
At Maison Anthony Marmin, we believe in the art of balance. Our perfume sprays are created as Extrait de Parfum, with a concentration of 20%+ , striking the perfect harmony between longevity, diffusion, and olfactory beauty.
Some brands push concentrations beyond 30% or even 40%, but we deliberately chose not to use 20%+, and here’s why:
1️⃣ More concentration doesn’t always mean better performance.
A fragrance that is too concentrated can feel overwhelming or heavy on the skin. We crafted our Extrait de Parfum to be luxurious yet wearable, without suffocating intensity.
2️⃣ Balanced diffusion is key.
In highly concentrated perfumes, the alcohol percentage is lower, which can sometimes limit projection. Our concentration ensures a refined, elegant diffusion that is neither too light nor too overpowering.
3️⃣ Not all ingredients perform well at extreme concentrations.
Some delicate floral, citrus, and green notes become muted or distorted when pushed to 30% or more. We ensured that every note in our perfumes is expressed with clarity and sophistication.
4️⃣ Longevity is already optimized.
Extrait de parfum is meant to last. Increasing the concentration further would not necessarily improve performance but might alter the scent’s evolution in a way that is less pleasant.
5️⃣ A nuclear projection is still possible: just apply more.
If you love an intense scent trail, the best way to achieve it isn’t by increasing the concentration but by adjusting your application. A couple of extra sprays will amplify the projection without needing to overload the formula.
6️⃣ The experience is meant to be luxurious, not overwhelming.
We design our perfumes to be enjoyed by both the wearer and those around them. A fragrance that is too concentrated can become invasive, making it hard to appreciate the complexity of the composition.
7️⃣ Preserving the refinement of Arabian perfumery with French elegance.
Our Extraits de Parfum is the perfect balance of heritage and sophistication: strong enough to last, yet elegant enough to wear daily.
Discover Maison Anthony Marmin’s Perfume Sprays
Our extrait de parfum sprays redefine Arabian perfumery with a concentration of 20%+ , offering the perfect blend of intensity, sophistication, and wearability.
✔ Great concentration for long-lasting depth
✔ Expertly crafted for balanced diffusion
✔ A luxurious sillage that speaks of refinement
Final Thoughts
Understanding perfume concentrations helps you make an informed choice, but percentages alone don’t define quality. The real test is how the fragrance wears on your skin and clothes, how it evolves, and how it makes you feel.
