The label sets the oil share, not the materials. A heavy woody base in an EDT can outlast a citrus EDP of the same name. The two are often separate compositions.
The myth: EDP is always better
Concentration changes presence and longevity. Quality is a separate question. Some EDTs are more interesting than their EDP versions because the formula is its own composition.
- EDCEau de Cologne2–5%An hour or two
- EDTEau de Toilette5–15%Three to five hours
- EDPEau de Parfum15–20%Five to eight hours
- PParfum, Extrait20–30%Into the next morning
No law fixes these numbers. Each house sets its own, and a strong EDT can outlast a soft EDP. Wear times are rough averages on skin.
Practical rules
- Heat and the office. An EDT or a light EDP is often enough.
- Cold weather and evening. EDP, Parfum, and Extrait earn their place.
- Compare price per millilitre, not the word on the concentration.
Versions of one line
Bleu de Chanel EDP is a different composition from Bleu de Chanel EDT. A “stronger version” is often a different smell, turned up.
For niche
Many niche houses release only an EDP or an Extrait. If you are unsure, decant both concentrations when both exist. Store the sample you are testing out of the sun. A tired decant will make a light EDT look weaker than it is.