Understanding Edp: The Meaning Behind Eau De Parfum

When it comes to fragrances, the terms 'EDP', 'EDT', and 'EDC' refer to the concentration of aromatic compounds in a perfume or cologne. These abbreviations stand for Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, and Eau de Cologne, respectively, and indicate the intensity and longevity of the scent. While cologne is often associated with men's fragrances, the term actually refers to a light version of perfume that is unisex. Understanding these different concentrations can help individuals choose the right fragrance for their desired scent strength and duration.

EDP vs EDT

The acronyms EDP, EDT, and EDC are often seen in the world of perfumery and denote different types of fragrances. These abbreviations stand for Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, and Eau de Cologne, respectively. The core difference between these fragrance types is the concentration of essential oils or aromatic compounds diluted in water and alcohol. This variation in concentration not only affects the scent's intensity and longevity but also influences their purpose and price.

Let's delve into the differences between EDP and EDT:

Eau de Parfum (EDP):

EDP contains a higher concentration of fragrance compounds, typically ranging from 15% to 20%, with some sources giving a broader range of 15% to 25%. This higher concentration results in a stronger scent and longer-lasting fragrance. A single application of EDP can last up to an entire working day or around 8 to 10 hours. Due to its higher concentration, EDP tends to be more expensive than EDT. EDP is suitable for those who prefer intense aromas and long-lasting scents. It is recommended to apply EDP directly to the skin, especially on pulse points like the wrists and behind the ears.

Eau de Toilette (EDT):

EDT has a lower concentration of fragrance compounds compared to EDP, usually ranging from 5% to 15%. This lower concentration results in a more delicate and softer fragrance. EDT typically lasts for 4 to 7 hours, although some sources suggest a range of 6 to 8 hours. EDT is more affordable than EDP and is ideal for occasions when you need a soft, fresh scent. It is recommended to spray EDT on your clothes and warm areas of your body, such as your wrists, behind your ears, and inside your elbows.

While EDP and EDT have distinct characteristics, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. Factors such as desired scent intensity, longevity, and price will influence your decision. Additionally, different fragrances with varying concentrations from the same brand may smell different, so it is always advisable to sample the specific fragrance before making a purchase.

Cologne concentration

The concentration of a fragrance is determined by the ratio of oils to water or alcohol in the solution. This concentration not only determines the strength of the scent but also how long it will last and how much should be applied.

Eau de Parfum (EDP) contains a fragrance concentration of between 15 and 20%, or even up to 25% according to some sources. It is a high-grade perfume with a strong scent and staying power, lasting up to 8–10 hours. It is much more accessible to purchase than pure perfume, with a more affordable price point.

Eau de Toilette (EDT) has a fragrance concentration of 5–15%, with a durability of 6–8 hours. It is a versatile product, perfect for occasions when a soft, fresh scent is desired.

Eau de Cologne (EDC) has a maximum concentration of 7–8%, with a durability of 2–4 hours. It has lighter chords and less intense scents, making it a good option for refreshing yourself throughout the day.

Aftershave contains the lowest concentration of fragrance, at around 1–3%. It serves the function of disinfecting the skin after shaving, leaving it refreshed and lightly fragranced.

Unisex fragrances

The world of fragrances is a complex and nuanced one, with a myriad of options available to suit every taste and preference. While marketing campaigns have often labelled 'cologne' as a general term for men's fragrances, this is misinformation. In reality, cologne is unisex, and the difference in labels simply denotes the strength and purpose of the scent.

Another brand offering unisex fragrances is Maison Margiela, with their REPLICA collection. These fragrances include autumnal and cosy scents like 'By the Fireplace', as well as fresher, more relaxed scents like 'Lazy Sunday Morning'.

When it comes to the different types of fragrances, the core distinction lies in the concentration of essential oils or 'aromatic' compounds diluted in water and alcohol. Parfum, or Pure Perfume, is the strongest and longest-lasting concentration, typically containing 20-30% scented perfume ingredients. Eau de Parfum (EDP), on the other hand, contains a slightly lower percentage of fragrance compounds, averaging 15-20%. Despite this, it still offers significant strength and staying power at a more accessible price point. Eau de Toilette (EdT) sits in the middle, with a concentration of 5-15%, making it a versatile option for those seeking a soft, fresh scent. Lastly, Eau de Cologne (EdC) has a maximum concentration of 7%, making it ideal for refreshing yourself throughout the day with lighter chords and less intense scents.

History of cologne

Cologne, the fourth-largest city in Germany, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Here is a brief overview of the city's evolution over the centuries:

Ancient Times to the Middle Ages

Cologne was founded in the 1st century CE as the Roman Colonia Agrippina in Germanic Ubii territory. The name "Colonia" later became the city's name in its own right. During the Roman era, Cologne served as the capital of the Roman province of Germania Inferior and the headquarters of the Roman military in the region. In 310 CE, Emperor Constantine I built a castle and a bridge over the Rhine River. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Cologne was conquered by the Franks around 456 CE and became the residence of the kings of the Ripuarian part of the Frankish kingdom.

A Christian community existed in Cologne as early as the 2nd century, and the city is first mentioned as a bishopric in 313. In the late 8th century, Charlemagne elevated Cologne to an archbishopric. By the 10th century, the archbishop had significant temporal power, collecting various tolls and customs duties. During the Middle Ages, Cologne flourished as a major trade centre, located on important routes between eastern and western Europe. The city's industry and trade grew, and conflicts arose between the wealthy merchants and the archbishop.

Free Imperial City

In 1288, after the Battle of Worringen, Cologne gained its independence from the archbishops and became a Free City, though it was only officially recognised as such in 1475. The government of the city was initially in the hands of wealthy patricians, but in 1396, a new municipal constitution was established, giving power to the guilds. This medieval period was a golden age for Cologne, as it became a prominent member of the Hanseatic League, with its merchants having extensive connections and varied trade. The city also excelled in various crafts, including textile manufacturing, bookmaking, and metalworking.

Early Modern Period

After the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), Cologne went into a period of decline. In the late 18th century, the city was occupied by the French, and the archbishopric was left vacant. In 1815, Cologne became part of Prussia, marking the beginning of a new era of prosperity. Industries flourished, and the city's geographic position made it an ideal railway hub. The population grew significantly during this period, reaching 372,529 by 1900.

World Wars and Recent History

During World War I, Cologne's growth was interrupted, but under Mayor Konrad Adenauer (who later became West Germany's chancellor), the city resumed its expansion, particularly in suburban areas. However, World War II brought devastation to Cologne, as it sustained 262 air raids, leaving the city in ruins. The central part of the city was almost completely destroyed, and 91 out of 150 churches were lost.

Post-war reconstruction saw the development of new industrial areas and satellite towns, and Cologne regained its position as the economic and cultural centre of northwestern Germany. The city has continued to prosper, with a shift towards high-tech industries such as telecommunications. Today, Cologne remains a major cultural and economic hub, known for its rich history, vibrant economy, and diverse attractions.

How to apply

Knowing how much cologne to apply is important, and it depends on the concentration of the fragrance. EDP stands for Eau de Parfum, which has a fragrance concentration of between 15-20% (or 15-25% according to another source). This makes it a strong scent with a long shelf life.

• Apply sparingly. A single application of a few spritzes of Eau de Parfum can last an entire working day.
• Spray directly onto your skin, focusing on areas where you can feel your heartbeat, such as your wrists and behind your ears.
• You can also apply cologne to your neck and chest, ensuring you avoid any sensitive areas.
• Avoid applying Eau de Parfum to your clothes, as the fabric may affect the scent.
• If you want the fragrance to be more subtle, try applying it to your fingertips and then dabbing it onto your pulse points, such as your wrists, neck, and behind your ears. This will give you a more gentle application.
• Be mindful of the environment you'll be in when wearing cologne. Strong fragrances like Eau de Parfum are likely best reserved for evenings or special occasions. For everyday wear, you may prefer a lighter fragrance that won't be too overpowering in small or crowded spaces.

Frequently asked questions