Extrait de Parfum
Extrait de parfum explained: what the label means, how it differs from perfume oil, and why a concentrated fragrance may not project farther or last longer.
Updated
Extrait de parfum is a designation for a concentrated fragrance, often also called parfum. It is commonly positioned above eau de parfum in a range. The percentage varies by product, and the label alone does not tell you how many hours it will last.
Concentration and diffusion are different properties. An extrait may be noticeable mainly at close range or may leave a substantial trail. Neither behavior follows automatically from the word on the bottle. Formula and application matter, so try the exact version you are considering.
Extrait is also different from a carrier description. Many extraits are alcohol-based; perfume oils use an oil carrier. Read the product information to establish what is in a particular format. Follow its application directions and judge the result before adding more.
- Parfum / extrait de parfum
- Designations used for concentrated versions. They do not guarantee greater projection or a particular number of hours.
- Concentration
- The proportion of fragrance concentrate in the finished product. It does not specify a wear time, scent profile or projection distance.
- Eau de parfum (EDP)
- A concentration designation usually positioned above eau de toilette within a range. The exact percentage and composition depend on the product.
- Perfume oil
- A format that uses an oil carrier for the fragrance. The carrier is a separate question from the concentration designation.
- Projection
- How far from the wearer a fragrance can be detected at a particular time. Air movement and the observer affect the result.