Korean Perfume Labels: Eau de Parfum vs Eau de Toilette
A practical comparison of Korean eau de parfum and eau de toilette labels, including why concentration ranges overlap.
When shopping for Korean perfume, eau de parfum (EDP) and eau de toilette (EDT) can look like precise strength ratings. They are useful clues about a fragrance’s style and concentration, but they do not provide a universal formula or a reliable number of hours on skin.
What the labels usually mean
The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) describes EDT and EDP as general terms without fixed international concentration definitions. For ethanol-based fragrances, it gives typical ranges of 5–15% fragrance concentrate for EDT and 10–20% for EDP. These ranges overlap: a name alone cannot establish the exact percentage in a particular bottle. Extrait and eau de cologne are other labels with their own customary ranges, also subject to variation.
Will the EDP smell stronger or last longer?
Often an EDP is formulated with more fragrance concentrate than an EDT, but compare the actual products rather than assuming a guaranteed outcome. Fragrance materials, formula, amount applied, wear conditions and personal perception all affect the experience. An EDP and EDT with similar names can have different scent compositions as well as different concentrations. A sample or discovery size lets you assess the scent over time before committing to a full bottle.
An overseas shopping checklist
- Confirm the exact name, concentration label, bottle size and whether the listing is a sample, refill or complete bottle.
- Read the note descriptions and check the brand’s information for that exact version. Notes are a description of the scent, not a complete ingredient list.
- Compare the total delivered price and cost per milliliter, including shipping and any applicable charges.
- Check the seller’s shipping and return conditions for fragrances. Alcohol-based perfume may be subject to transport restrictions.
- If you know you react to a fragrance ingredient, check the label and ask the manufacturer for the information you need before use.
Fragrance information and sensitive skin
FDA explains that, under US labeling rules, fragrance ingredients may sometimes be grouped under “fragrance” rather than individually named. It also notes that an unscented product can contain ingredients added to mask other odors. If a product irritates your skin, stop using it and seek medical advice for a severe or persistent reaction. Rules and disclosures can differ by market.
Try before choosing
Test a fragrance in a setting where you can smell it again after the initial spray, and follow the maker’s directions. Do not rely on concentration alone to choose a gift for someone else. For a different way to discover Korean fragrance, see THE CAST’s comparison of perfume workshops and ready-made scents.