Concentration is the single most useful number on a bottle, and the one most people never think to check.

Concentration refers to the percentage of aromatic oil dissolved in the carrier — the rest is largely alcohol or water. It’s the main driver of a fragrance’s strength, longevity and price, spanning from light eau de cologne at a few percent up to rich parfum and perfume oils at 20-30% or more.

TypeTypical oil %
Extrait / Parfum20–30%
Eau de Parfum (EDP)15–20%
Eau de Toilette (EDT)5–15%
Eau de Cologne2–5%
Perfume oil / Attarcommonly 15–30%+

Frequently asked questions

Which concentration should I buy?

EDP is the versatile everyday choice for most people; go lighter (EDT) for hot weather or subtlety, richer (parfum or oil) for longevity and evening wear.

Compare concentrations across our Perfume Sprays and Perfume Oils.