The short answer
The letters on a perfume bottle tell you its concentration — the percentage of fragrance oil in the formula. From lightest to strongest: Eau de Cologne (2–4%), Eau de Toilette / EDT (5–15%), Eau de Parfum / EDP (15–20%), and Parfum (20–30%). The higher the concentration, the richer the scent and the longer it lasts. For everyday wear that needs to survive a full day, an eau de parfum is usually the sweet spot.
What does "fragrance concentration" actually mean?
Every perfume is fragrance oil dissolved in alcohol (and a little water). "Concentration" is simply how much of the bottle is actual scent versus alcohol. More oil means a stronger, longer-lasting fragrance that sits closer to your skin and projects for longer. Less oil means something lighter and fresher that fades faster. That single number is the biggest predictor of how a perfume will perform.
EDP vs EDT vs Parfum: the full breakdown
| Type | Fragrance oil | Typical wear time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eau de Cologne (EDC) | 2–4% | 1–2 hours | A quick, fresh splash |
| Eau de Toilette (EDT) | 5–15% | 3–5 hours | Light daytime wear |
| Eau de Parfum (EDP) | 15–20% | 8–12 hours | All-day signature scent |
| Parfum (Extrait) | 20–30% | 12+ hours | Luxury, special occasions |
A few things worth knowing:
- EDT isn't "worse" than EDP — it's just lighter. Some people prefer a fresher, more fleeting scent, especially in offices or hot climates.
- Parfum is the strongest, but it's typically the most expensive and can be heavier than you want for daily wear.
- EDP is the most versatile — rich enough to last, balanced enough for everyday. It's why most signature fragrances live in this category.
Which concentration should you buy?
Ask yourself one question: how long do I need it to last?
- If you want a light scent for a few hours, an EDT is fine.
- If you want one application to carry you from morning to night, choose an EDP.
- If you want maximum depth for a special evening and don't mind the price, a parfum delivers.
For most people, most days, an eau de parfum gives the best balance of longevity, richness, and value.
Why Adam Pare is formulated at 20%
Here's the catch with eau de parfum: the category covers a wide range, 15% all the way to 20%, and plenty of brands sit at the bottom of it while still calling themselves EDP. The difference in how long they last is significant.
Every Adam Pare fragrance is formulated at 20% concentration — the very top of the eau de parfum range. That's a deliberate choice: it's the level that delivers genuine 10–12 hour wear and the richness of a luxury scent, without crossing into the price territory of a parfum. In short, you get the longevity people chase, at a price made for everyday wear.
You can explore the full range on the Shop page — every scent, for men and women, sits at that same 20% concentration.
Quick answers
Which lasts longer, EDP or EDT? EDP. It has more fragrance oil (15–20% vs 5–15%), so it lasts roughly twice as long — about 8–12 hours versus 3–5.
Is parfum the same as perfume? "Perfume" is the general word for any fragrance. "Parfum" (or extrait de parfum) is a specific, high-concentration type — usually 20–30% oil.
Is a higher concentration always better? Not always — it's about preference. Higher concentration lasts longer and projects more, but some people prefer the lighter, fresher feel of an EDT. For all-day wear, higher is better.
What concentration are Adam Pare perfumes? All Adam Pare fragrances are eau de parfum at 20% concentration — the top of the EDP range — for 10–12 hours of wear.
Looking for an eau de parfum that genuinely lasts? Explore Adam Pare's collection of 20% concentration fragrances for men and women.