Extrait de Parfum
Why I decided on 35 %
Do we want a fragrance that simply smells good, or one that stays?
35 %
When we talked about our fragrance at HERB, one question was at the centre for me: do we want a fragrance that simply smells good, or one that stays?
The answer came quickly. I did not want a compromise. That is why I decided on a perfume oil concentration of 35 %.
That figure is a deliberate choice
In perfumery, fragrances are distinguished by their share of perfume oils:
Eau de Toilette
about 5 to 15 %
Eau de Parfum
about 10 to 20 %
Extrait de Parfum
about 20 to 40 % · the highest class
At 35 %, HERB is a true Extrait de Parfum, and in the upper part of that class. Many classic extraits sit considerably lower. We deliberately went further.
Why this matters so much to me: an Extrait de Parfum is the purest and most concentrated form of a fragrance. Less alcohol, and more of what makes a scent. It unfolds slowly and close to the skin, shows its depth in the heart note and carries the base note for many hours. A fragrance like this does not impose itself; it accompanies you.
On my journey through France I visited houses that have been making fragrance essences since the 18th century. There I learned that true quality is never loud. It comes from consistency, from good raw materials and from the courage not to economise. That is exactly the attitude I wanted to translate into HERB.
For us, 35 % means more effort, more precious raw materials in every bottle and a formula that has to be balanced with particular care. To me that is not a cost factor but a promise to everyone who wears HERB.
HERB is not a fragrance for a moment. HERB is an Extrait de Parfum for the whole day, for the evening and for everything that comes after.
Andreas Herb