If you have ever wondered why some fragrances last all day while others fade within hours, the answer lies in one word: concentration.
Extrait de parfum — also called parfum, pure perfume, or perfume extract — is the highest concentration of fragrance available. It contains 20–40% pure fragrance oils, compared to 15–20% in eau de parfum and just 5–15% in eau de toilette.
Perfume Concentrations Explained
- Eau de Cologne: 2–5% oil, lasts 1–3 hours.
- Eau de Toilette: 5–15% oil, lasts 3–5 hours.
- Eau de Parfum: 15–20% oil, lasts 6–10 hours.
- Extrait de Parfum: 20–40% oil, lasts 12–18 hours.
Why Choose Extrait de Parfum?
Longevity. A single application lasts until you go to bed. Two sprays and you are set.
Complexity. Higher oil concentration means more room for the perfumer to layer complex notes.
Skin Closeness. Extrait radiates gently from your skin — elegance, not announcement.
Value Per Wear. A 50ml extrait at £45–50 gives you 500+ sprays. Cost per wear: approximately 20p.
Best Extrait de Parfum in the UK
IDENTITY by My Athoor London — £49.99
An amber-forward extrait with blueberry, cashmere wood, and honey. 12–16 hour longevity.
GISSAH D'AURA by My Athoor London — £44.99
Agarwood oud, leather, and Haitian vetiver. 14–18 hours of dominant projection.
OLD MONEY by My Athoor London — £44.99
Bergamot, marine seaweed, and ambroxan. The scent of quiet confidence. 10–14 hours.
How to Apply Extrait de Parfum
- Spray 2–3 times maximum — pulse points only.
- Do not rub your wrists together.
- Apply to moisturised skin.
- Hold the bottle 10–15cm from skin.
Extrait de Parfum vs Eau de Parfum
Extrait has a richer texture, smoother transitions between notes, and a more intimate character. Where eau de parfum shouts, extrait whispers — and people remember a whisper.
Most luxury houses charge £200–400 for extrait. My Athoor London offers the same concentration for under £50.
Where to Buy Extrait de Parfum in the UK
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sprays of extrait de parfum should I use?
2–3 sprays is sufficient.
Does extrait de parfum last longer than eau de parfum?
Yes — typically 12–18 hours vs 6–10 hours for eau de parfum.
Is extrait de parfum only for evening wear?
Not at all. Because extrait sits closer to the skin, it is suitable for offices and daytime too.
Why is extrait de parfum usually more expensive?
More fragrance oil per bottle means higher raw material costs. However, you use less per application, so cost per wear is often similar.