Distinguishing EDP & EDT: A Comparison

EDP vs EDT

The difference between EDP (Eau de Perfume) and EDT (Eau de Toilette) can be understood by knowing what each stands for and what they contain. EDP and EDT are different labels for fragrances that are used daily. People worldwide use fragrances to keep and feel fresh for an extended period. They buy various perfumes but are often confused when seeing different labels and prices on the products. The terms EDP, EDT, and EDC can be confusing, but it is straightforward when you know their meanings.

The prefix ED in all three abbreviations is Eau De, the French word for perfume. Perfumes are mixtures of many compounds, oils, aromatic compounds, solvents, and fixatives. EDP, EDT, and EDC refer to eau de perfume, eau de toilette, and eau de cologne, respectively. There are also perfume extracts and aftershave lotions in this chain. These abbreviations imply the concentration or percentage of aromatic compounds to solvents in a solution.

Concentration of different types of aromatic substances is as follows: Perfume extract – 15-40%, Eau de perfume – 10-20%, Eau de toilette – 5-15%, Eau de cologne – 3-8%, and Aftershave – 1-3%.

The intensity of the fragrance and how long it lasts after application depends on the concentration of aromatic compounds in relation to the solvents. The larger this percentage, the stronger the fragrance, and the longer its effect on the skin can be felt.

What is EDP?

EDP stands for Eau de Perfume. Although it carries the word perfume, the concentration of EDP is not the same as perfume. EDP only has 10-20% of aromatic compounds, so it lasts less than perfume, which has 15-40% of aromatic compounds. To make the scent last longer, a number of ingredients are added to the aromatic compounds. Eau de perfumes are known for two notes that work together to hold the fragrance. The top note is released when one applies eau de perfume and lasts for some time. As it goes off, another note is released, also called the heart of the scent. This note lasts after the top notes have faded away.

What is EDT?

EDT stands for Eau de Toilette. EDT only has 5-15% of aromatic compounds, so it lasts less than eau de perfume, which has 10-20% of aromatic compounds. To make the scent last longer, a number of ingredients are added to the aromatic compounds. When one of the aromatic compounds breaks down, another takes its place, and the fragrance stays. However, with eau de toilette, the top notes, the first scent released, are dominant. So, initially, it is very refreshing, but the scent evaporates quickly.

Key Takeaways

• EDP (Eau de Perfume) has a higher concentration of aromatic compounds (10-20%) compared to EDT (Eau de Toilette), which has only 5-15%.
• Eau de perfume lasts longer and is more fragrant due to its two notes, whereas eau de toilette evaporates more quickly and only has one note.
• Eau de perfume is generally more expensive than eau de toilette due to its higher concentration and longer-lasting scent.