🌸 A Beginner's Guide to Eau de Parfum vs Eau de Toilette

If you’ve ever stood in front of a fragrance display, spritzing tester cards and wondering, what's the actual difference between Eau de Parfum and Eau de Toilette? — you're not alone. Many fragrance lovers (and curious beginners) are puzzled by these two popular perfume types.

Today, we're breaking down everything you need to know about Eau de Parfum (EDP) vs Eau de Toilette (EDT), from longevity and intensity to when (and why) you might choose one over the other.

💧 What Is Eau de Parfum (EDP)?

Eau de Parfum is the richer, more concentrated sibling in the fragrance family. Typically containing 15-20% fragrance oil, EDPs are known for their deeper intensity and longer-lasting wear. If you want your scent to make an entrance and leave a lasting impression, this is your go-to.

💡 Best for: Evening events, romantic dates, or days when you want your fragrance to linger for hours.

💨 What Is Eau de Toilette (EDT)?

Eau de Toilette has a lighter concentration, usually between 5-15% fragrance oil. It's fresher, airier, and perfect for daytime wear. While it might not last as long as an EDP, it's ideal for casual settings and warmer weather.

💡 Best for: Office days, brunches, casual outings, and summer months.

⏳ Longevity & Strength: What to Expect

• EDP: 6 to 8+ hours of wear

• EDT: 3 to 5 hours of wear

Your skin type, environment, and how you layer your fragrance can also impact longevity. For tips, check out our blog on how to layer perfume for better sillage.

👃 Scent Profile & Projection

• EDP: Often has a stronger base note profile (woods, musk, vanilla)

• EDT: Usually highlights fresher top notes (citrus, florals, green herbs)

The concentration affects how a scent unfolds throughout the day. EDPs evolve slowly and have greater depth, while EDTs are more vibrant and airy at first spritz.

💸 Price Point: What's the Value?

Because Eau de Parfum uses more concentrated oils, it's generally priced higher than Eau de Toilette. However, this doesn’t mean EDTs are inferior — just different. For those on a budget, EDTs can be a great way to explore luxury scents at lower price points.

Check out our best cheap perfumes under £50 for standout options.

🌟 Real Examples from Glow Empire

Still unsure? Let’s look at some popular options to see how they compare:

• Katy Perry perfume (EDP): Sweet, playful, and long-lasting. Great for all-day wear.

• Dolce and Gabbana L'Imperatrice (EDT): Bright, fruity, and ideal for sunny afternoons.

• Calvin Klein Beauty (EDP): A sophisticated floral with excellent staying power.

• Tommy Girl perfume (EDT): Light, sporty, and refreshingly classic.

Explore more in our Fragrance Collection or see what’s trending in our Bestsellers section.

❓ Q&A: Eau de Parfum vs Eau de Toilette

Q: Can I wear Eau de Toilette at night? A: Absolutely! Just be mindful it may fade quicker. For extra longevity, layer with a matching lotion or oil.

Q: Does stronger always mean better? A: Not necessarily. It's about the mood you're setting. EDTs are perfect for light, fresh vibes; EDPs add depth and drama.

Q: Are there unisex options in both types? A: Yes! Many brands now offer gender-neutral scents in both EDP and EDT forms.

Ready to find your perfect scent?

✨ Whether you crave intensity or prefer something breezy, Glow Empire has the fragrance to match your mood and moment.

🌐 Glow Empire — where every scent tells your story.