When it comes to shopping for perfumes, the choice can seem overwhelming. There are so many designer brands each showcasing its own collection of unique fragrances, not to mention the different strengths.
Both perfumes and aftershaves can be created in varying strengths, which is great as it means you’ll find something that’s right for every occasion. But how do you choose your strength of fragrance, and what does it all mean? Here we’ll take a look at the difference between Eau de toilette (EDT) and Eau de parfum (EDP).
What is EDT and EDP?
The strength of a fragrance is dependent on the amount of perfume oil that is used. Perfume oil is mixed with alcohol to create the intensity of a perfume or aftershave; the more oil, the stronger the scent and the longer it will last.
Understanding the difference between these strengths can help you choose the right perfume or aftershave. Eau de toilette is the lighter of the two, usually including between 5-15% of essential perfume oil. Fragrances labelled as EDT will usually last around 3-6 hours, but some stronger perfumes like Oud Wafaa EDT with only 10% [erfume essence will last for much longer.
On the other hand, Eau de parfum usually has around 15-25% perfume oil and so is a much stronger blend. These fragrances can last up to 8 hours and the better quality ones will last for days on clothing and even on skin!
When to wear EDT and EDP
Eau de toilette fragrances are often favoured for everyday wear, whether you’re in the office, at home or out running errands. EDT is the perfect choice for applying before you walk out the door for a few hours, although its lighter scent will fade gradually over time.
If you’re heading out for a night out or some other special occasion, using an Eau de parfum is a must. EDP fragrances can have a bigger impact and leave a lasting impression; they won’t fade throughout the day either. This makes Eau de parfum a great choice for whiling away the hours.
Our recommendations
If you’re looking for a little inspiration to help you choose, here are some of our favourite EDT and EDP fragrances for men and women.
Women’s EDP perfumes
Women’s Eau de parfums can be much more intense and richer, which is why they are often reserved for evening wear; although there is no hard and fast rule! Oud Maraam by Al Aneeq is a fresh, soft fragrance for everyday wear. With notes of bergamot and coriander, mixed with oud, amber and leather, it is a tribute to what nature has to offer.
Another favourite EDP for women is Al Aneeq Rouge, with a vibrant scent created from tagete, saffron and jasmine. Combined with amber, moss and tonka beans, it is a vibrant and rich fragrance that will last many, many hours and turn heads wherever it is worn.
Men’s EDT and EDP aftershaves
For men, both Eau de toilette and Eau de parfum aftershaves can be distinctive and memorable, with the EDT fragrances offering a slightly lighter and subtler scent. One of the best examples of an Eau de toilette for men is Oud Wafaa. Its masculine, woody and classic scent is created from leather, iris, cedarwood, tuberose, artemisia, and styrax, combined with patchouli, vetiver, amber, oud, poudre. Its strength is just enough to be noticed, without becoming overpowering.
Women’s Eau de parfums can be much more intense and richer, which is why they are often reserved for evening wear; although there is no hard and fast rule! Oud Maraam by Al Aneeq is a fresh, soft fragrance for everyday wear.
For men’s Eau de parfum aftershaves that won’t go unnoticed, Fakhrul Oudh is a great example of an EDP with an aromatic and stimulating scent. Created with nagarmotha and sandalwood alongside guaiac wood, amber and tonka, it is a woody and earthy fragrance designed to make a lasting impression time and time again.
This article has been of great help to me. Thank you for sharing.