Concentration, simply put
Every fragrance is perfume oil suspended in alcohol. What separates an eau de parfum from an extrait is how much oil is in the bottle — and that single number rewrites the whole experience.
- Eau de toilette — roughly 8–12% oil
- Eau de parfum — roughly 15–20% oil
- Extrait de parfum — 20–30% and beyond
What you actually notice
An EDP opens brighter. More alcohol means faster evaporation, so top notes arrive quickly and the composition moves at pace. An extrait behaves differently: less alcohol, slower lift, and a fragrance that sits closer to the skin while lasting far longer.
An extrait is not a stronger perfume. It is a quieter, longer conversation.
Which should you wear
Choose an EDP for daytime, offices and warm weather, where projection is welcome but should not dominate a room. Choose an extrait for evenings, cool climates and occasions where you want the scent discovered rather than announced.
Applying each correctly
EDP rewards two to four sprays on pulse points. Extrait rewards restraint — a dab at the base of the neck and one on each wrist is usually enough for a full evening.
If you are still building your vocabulary, read our guide to top, heart and base notes, then browse the CB16 collection to compare both concentrations side by side.
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