Eau de Cologne, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, Extrait de Parfum. The French words on a perfume bottle are not decoration. They tell you how much fragrance oil is inside, and that decides how long the scent lasts, how far it projects and whether it is good value. Here is everything you need to know, explained simply.

What the names actually mean

Every perfume is a mix of fragrance oil and a carrier, usually perfumer’s alcohol. The more oil, the stronger and longer-lasting the scent. Typical concentrations are:

• Eau de Cologne (EDC): about 2–5% fragrance oil. A light splash that fades within 1–2 hours.
• Eau de Toilette (EDT): about 5–15%. Fresh and bright, usually lasting 3–5 hours.
• Eau de Parfum (EDP): about 15–20%. Richer, typically lasting 6–8 hours.
• Extrait de Parfum (also called Parfum or Pure Perfume): about 20–40%. The most concentrated form, lasting 8–12 hours or more.

These ranges vary between brands, but the order never changes: Extrait is always the richest.

EDP vs EDT: which is better?

Neither is “better” in every situation. An EDT is lighter and suits people who like a subtle scent or re-spray during the day. An EDP lasts longer and feels fuller. In Pakistan’s heat and humidity, however, lighter concentrations evaporate quickly, so most people get far better value from an EDP or an Extrait.

Why Extrait de Parfum is worth it

• It lasts. More oil means the scent stays on your skin from morning meetings to evening plans.
• It evolves beautifully. You experience the full journey from top notes to base notes, instead of losing the scent after the opening.
• You use less. Three or four sprays are enough, so a 50ml bottle lasts longer than you expect.
• It feels close and luxurious. Extraits tend to wear richer and smoother on the skin.

Does a higher concentration mean a louder scent?

Not always. Longevity (how long a scent lasts) and projection (how far it travels from your skin) are different things. Fresh citrus scents project less than spicy or amber scents, even at the same concentration. A good Extrait wears confidently without overwhelming a room.

Why every KAEL fragrance is an Extrait

We made a simple decision when we started KAEL: every fragrance we make is an Extrait de Parfum, blended at a high concentration of fragrance oil. We wanted perfume that performs in Pakistan’s climate, so you are not reapplying at lunch. From fresh AZURO to rich DASTAN, every bottle carries the same strength.

Frequently asked questions

Is Extrait de Parfum stronger than Eau de Parfum?

Yes. Extrait de Parfum has a higher concentration of fragrance oil than Eau de Parfum, so it usually lasts longer and feels richer.

Is “Parfum” the same as “Extrait de Parfum”?

Generally, yes. Parfum, Extrait, Extrait de Parfum and Pure Perfume all describe the highest concentration.

How should I apply an Extrait?

Lightly. Spray three to four times on pulse points and clothing. Our guide on making perfume last longer has more tips.

Experience the difference yourself: explore the KAEL Extrait de Parfum collection.