Definition
The relationship between dilution and the finished fragrance experience is non-linear. Alcohol evaporation rate, skin chemistry, ambient temperature, and the formula's volatility distribution all interact with the dilution percentage to produce the actual wear experience. A well-constructed eau de toilette can outperform a poorly constructed eau de parfum of the same formula in longevity and projection.
In niche perfumery, the dilution level is frequently published on the bottle or brand communications as a quality signal. Houses such as Frederic Malle and Serge Lutens have built their identity partly around high concentration levels (Basenotes wiki, accessed 2026-05-27).
How it works
Standard dilution ranges by concentration category: eau de cologne 2-5%, eau de toilette 5-15%, eau de parfum 15-20%, extrait de parfum 20-40% (Société Française des Parfumeurs EN, accessed 2026-05-27). These are conventions rather than legal definitions; some houses label their products differently.
Dilution is not simply a matter of intensity. Higher dilution changes the olfactive character of a formula: some materials that are radiant and expansive at 10% become oppressive at 25%, while others only reveal their full complexity at higher concentrations. Niche perfumers often choose dilution levels based on olfactive intent rather than cost alone (Fragrantica encyclopedia, accessed 2026-05-27).