What is the difference between an Eau de Parfum, an Eau de Toilette, and an Extrait de Parfum?

February 23, 2026|Stéphane Guichard

At Comptoir Sud Pacifique, you will find three types of fragrances within our collection: Eaux de Toilette, Eaux de Parfum, and more recently, Extraits de Parfum. But how do you tell the difference between these three categories?

Historically, in perfumery, these designations differentiate the concentration of perfume oils present in a bottle (and not simply the alcohol content). The higher the concentration of perfume, the more intense the sillage and the longer the lasting power. This concentration also influences the amount needed to fully reveal the fragrance’s olfactory facets.

Concentrations are generally distinguished as follows:

Type – Typical Concentration – Concentration at Comptoir Sud Pacifique

<ul>
<li>
Eau de Toilette – 5 to 12% perfume oil – 10% perfume oil
</li>
<li>
Eau de Parfum – 12 to 20% perfume oil – 15% perfume oil
</li>
<li>
Extrait de Parfum – 20 to 40% perfume oil – 25% perfume oil
</li>
</ul>

These percentages may vary from one fragrance house to another, but they remain a key indicator of a perfume’s longevity and intensity.

At Comptoir Sud Pacifique, our Eaux de Toilette are concentrated at 10%, a high level that gives them excellent staying power—far superior to more lightly dosed formulas. Our Eaux de Parfum offer a perfect balance between intensity and comfort. Finally, our <a href="https://comptoir-sud-pacifique.com/collections/vanilles-absolues" title="Vanilles Absolues Extrait de Parfum collection">Extraits de Parfum</a>, concentrated at 25%, reveal exceptional depth and richness: one to two sprays are generally enough for a scent that can last all day.

There is no universal “right” concentration: it all depends on personal preference, the season, and the time of day. In summer, a lighter, more airy veil is often preferred, with luminous Eaux de Toilette such as <a href="https://comptoir-sud-pacifique.com/products/aqua-motu" title="Aqua Motu Eau de Toilette">Aqua Motu</a> or <a href="https://comptoir-sud-pacifique.com/products/mora-bella?_pos=1&_psq=Mora+Bella" title="Mora Bella Eau de Toilette">Mora Bella</a>. In winter or for evening wear, a more enveloping Extrait de Parfum is ideal for asserting your olfactory signature.

<h3>Find the concentration that suits you</h3>

Whether you are looking for the freshness of an Eau de Toilette, the elegance of an Eau de Parfum, or the intensity of an Extrait, each Comptoir Sud Pacifique fragrance is designed to enhance your personality.

Discover our complete collection now in our online boutique and let yourself be guided toward the fragrance that will become your signature.