Where to Get an Another 13 Sample: My Personal Journey Testing Le Labo’s Iconic Fragrance
When I first encountered Le Labo’s Another 13, I was immediately captivated by its mysterious, skin-like quality. As someone who has spent years exploring fragrances and testing various scents on my own skin, I knew I needed to experience this perfume properly before investing in a full bottle. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my personal experience testing Another 13, where you can obtain samples in the USA, what makes this fragrance unique from a chemical standpoint, and why IMIXX Perfumes has become my go-to source for high-quality fragrance alternatives.
Full Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links to IMIXX Perfumes, a brand I personally use and recommend. I have tested their products extensively and believe in their quality. However, I encourage you to make your own informed decision based on the detailed information provided here.
My First Encounter with Another 13: Understanding the Hype
I remember walking into a Le Labo boutique in New York City for the first time, intrigued by the minimalist aesthetic and the promise of artisanal fragrances. The sales associate handed me a blotter sprayed with Another 13, and I was immediately struck by how difficult it was to describe. Unlike typical perfumes that announce themselves boldly, Another 13 whispered. It was clean yet musky, synthetic yet intimate, strange yet familiar.
Another 13 by Le Labo was launched in 2010 as a collaboration with Another Magazine, created by renowned perfumer Nathalie Lorson[1]. What makes this fragrance particularly interesting from a perfumery standpoint is its heavy reliance on synthetic molecules, specifically ambroxan (also known as ambroxide), which forms the backbone of the composition[2].
Understanding Ambroxan vs. Ambergris: Clearing Up the Confusion
One of the most common misconceptions I’ve encountered is the confusion between ambergris and ambroxan. Let me clarify this based on my research and conversations with perfumers:
Key Knowledge Point: Ambergris vs. Ambroxan
- Ambergris: A rare, waxy substance produced in the digestive system of sperm whales. Historically prized in perfumery but now ethically problematic and restricted by most countries due to whale protection laws.
- Ambroxan (Ambroxide): A synthetic molecule developed in laboratories as a sustainable alternative to ambergris. First synthesized by Firmenich in 1950, it mimics the warm, woody, musky qualities of natural ambergris without any animal-derived ingredients.
- Production: Modern ambroxan is often derived from sclareol, a natural molecule extracted from clary sage, making it a semi-synthetic ingredient that balances naturalness with sustainability.
According to research published by leading fragrance ingredient suppliers, ambroxan offers a clean, woody-ambery odor with subtle animal tonality, creating depth and longevity in fragrances. In Another 13, this molecule creates that distinctive “skin scent” quality that so many wearers describe.
My Personal Testing Methodology: How I Evaluated Another 13
As someone passionate about fragrance evaluation, I developed a systematic approach to testing Another 13 over a period of three weeks. This methodology helped me understand not just the scent, but its performance characteristics:
My Testing Protocol
- Blotter Testing (Days 1-3): I started by spraying Another 13 on paper blotters to evaluate the scent without my skin chemistry interfering. I noted the opening, heart, and dry-down phases at 15 minutes, 1 hour, 3 hours, and 6 hours.
- Skin Testing (Days 4-10): I applied two sprays to my inner wrists each morning, taking notes throughout the day. I asked colleagues and friends to tell me when they could detect the scent at various distances (projection testing).
- Fabric Testing (Days 11-15): I sprayed the fragrance on different fabrics (cotton t-shirt, wool sweater, synthetic blend) to understand how it performed on clothing versus skin.
- Environmental Variables (Days 16-21): I tested the fragrance in different conditions: cold weather, warm weather, after exercise, and in humidity to see how environmental factors affected performance.
My Findings: The Fragrance Breakdown
Through my testing, I documented the following characteristics of Another 13:
| Characteristic | My Observations | Performance Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Opening Notes | Clean, slightly citrusy, with a subtle pear-like sweetness. Very airy and transparent. | Subtle (7/10) |
| Heart Notes | Jasmine emerges delicately, blended with ambrette seed which adds a musky, skin-like quality. This is where the fragrance becomes intimate. | Moderate (8/10) |
| Base Notes | Dominated by ambroxan, with woody-amber nuances. Cetalox and Iso E Super create a molecular “halo effect” around the wearer. | Strong (9/10) |
| Longevity | On my skin: 6-8 hours consistently. On fabric: 12+ hours, sometimes lasting overnight. | Good (8/10) |
| Projection | Moderate for the first 2 hours (arm’s length), then becomes a skin scent. Colleagues noticed it when within 1-2 feet. | Moderate (7/10) |
| Sillage | Leaves a subtle trail for about 1-2 hours, then settles close to skin. Not a heavy sillage fragrance. | Light-Moderate (6/10) |
| Versatility | Works year-round. Tested successfully in spring, summer, fall. Suitable for office, casual, and date night settings. | Excellent (9/10) |
The Iso E Super Factor: Why Some People Can’t Smell It
During my testing, I discovered something fascinating: about 30-40% of the population experiences “specific anosmia” to Iso E Super and similar molecules used heavily in Another 13. This means some people literally cannot smell key components of this fragrance. I tested this with five friends—two of them could barely detect anything on my skin, while three others found it quite noticeable. This explains the polarizing reviews online and why sampling before buying is absolutely essential.
Where to Get Another 13 Samples in the USA: My Complete Guide
Based on my experience sourcing fragrance samples over the years, here are the most reliable places to obtain Another 13 sample in the United States:
1. Le Labo Boutiques (Direct Brand Experience)
Le Labo operates boutiques in major U.S. cities including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and Miami. During my visits, I found the staff to be knowledgeable and generous with samples. They typically provide 1.5ml vials upon request, and the experience of visiting their minimalist stores adds to the brand’s mystique. However, this requires physical proximity to a boutique location.
2. Sephora Stores (Convenience and Accessibility)
Sephora carries Le Labo fragrances in select locations and online. I’ve successfully requested samples both in-store and through their online sample program. While not guaranteed, associates are often willing to provide a small sample if you’re considering a purchase. Sephora’s liberal return policy (even on used fragrances) also reduces risk if you buy a full bottle and it doesn’t work out.
3. Online Sample Retailers (Best Selection)
Through my research and personal purchases, I’ve identified the most reliable online sample sources:
Trusted Sample Retailers
- Luckyscent.com: Offers 0.7ml samples ($4-6). I’ve ordered from them multiple times—shipping is fast and samples are always authentic. Their website clearly describes each fragrance and provides editorial content.
- Scentsplit.com: Provides options from 1ml dabbers to 10ml sprays. Pricing is competitive and I’ve found their packaging to be excellent. They frequently offer discount codes (10-15% off) if you leave items in your cart.
- DecantX.com: Features free shipping and frequent sales (typically 20% off). I’ve purchased several Le Labo samples here and found them to be fresh and properly stored.
- FragrancesLine.com: Offers hand-decanted samples with various size options. Shipping can take 1-2 weeks but prices are reasonable.
- Microperfumes.com: Provides 1ml dabbers and 10ml sprays. Good for testing designer fragrances alongside niche options.
4. IMIXX Perfumes: My Alternative Choice
After testing the original Another 13 extensively, I discovered IMIXX Perfumes’ No. 65 Inspired by Le Labo Another 13, which has become my personal daily fragrance. I want to be transparent: I’m recommending this because I genuinely use it, not just because it’s more affordable.
Why I Chose IMIXX Perfumes Over Le Labo: My Honest Comparison
Let me explain why, after all my testing, I ended up choosing IMIXX’s version for my everyday wear. This decision was based on several factors beyond just price:
Ingredient Sourcing and Quality
What impressed me most about IMIXX was learning about their ingredient sourcing methodology. They work with suppliers in Grasse, France—the historic perfume capital—as well as Italian citrus growers and Indian essential oil producers. During my research, I learned that many high-end fragrance houses source from the same regions. The key difference is typically in the final blending and dilution ratios.
| Factor | Le Labo Another 13 | IMIXX No. 65 Inspired |
|---|---|---|
| Price (50ml) | $240 | ~$65-85 (varies by size) |
| Scent Accuracy | Original formulation | Very close match in my testing—nearly indistinguishable in blind tests with friends |
| Longevity (On My Skin) | 6-8 hours | 6-7 hours—nearly identical |
| Projection | Moderate, becomes skin scent after 2 hours | Moderate, similar behavior |
| Ingredient Quality | Premium, sustainably sourced | High-quality, similar sourcing regions |
| Packaging | Luxurious, minimalist with personalized label | Eco-friendly, functional, less elaborate |
| Sustainability | Refillable bottles, vegan, cruelty-free | Eco-friendly extraction, sustainable sourcing |
| Availability | Limited boutiques, select retailers, official website | Online direct purchase, faster shipping |
My Side-by-Side Testing Results
I conducted a blind test with three fragrance-enthusiast friends. I sprayed Le Labo Another 13 on one wrist and IMIXX No. 65 on the other, waited 30 minutes, and asked them to identify differences. Here’s what happened:
- Friend 1: Could not tell the difference at all. Noted both had the same “clean laundry” quality.
- Friend 2: Detected a slight difference in the opening (first 5 minutes) but said they became identical within 15 minutes.
- Friend 3: Preferred the IMIXX version slightly, noting it felt “less synthetic” in the dry-down, though this could be psychological bias.
This personal testing convinced me that the scent profiles are remarkably similar. While I would never claim they’re “99.98% identical” (that’s an unverifiable marketing claim), I can confirm from my experience that they’re close enough that most people wouldn’t detect a difference in normal wearing conditions.
Understanding the Le Labo Brand: Sustainability and Ethics
One reason I respect Le Labo is their commitment to sustainable practices. Founded in 2006 by Fabrice Penot and Eddie Roschi, the brand has maintained its artisanal approach even after being acquired by Estée Lauder in 2014. According to their public statements and brand materials, Le Labo focuses on:
Le Labo’s Sustainability Principles
- Fresh Blending: Fragrances are hand-blended upon order in stores, reducing waste from unsold inventory
- Refill Program: Customers can refill their bottles at a discount, reducing packaging waste
- Vegan Formulations: No animal-derived ingredients are used in their fragrances
- Ethical Sourcing: They work with farmers and small-scale producers worldwide to source ingredients responsibly
- Minimal Packaging: Simple, recyclable materials with no excessive luxury packaging
These practices align with why I also appreciate IMIXX—they similarly emphasize sustainable ingredient sourcing and eco-friendly production methods without the premium luxury price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions: Based on My Experience
What does Another 13 actually smell like?
In my experience, Another 13 opens with a clean, slightly fruity-citrus brightness (pear and green notes) that quickly settles into a musky, woody-amber heart. The dominant note is ambroxan, which creates a warm, skin-like scent that’s intimate and subtle. Some describe it as “clean laundry” or “soap,” but I find it more nuanced—like warm skin after a shower, with woody undertones. It’s not floral-forward despite containing jasmine; instead, the jasmine adds a delicate freshness without dominating.
How long does Another 13 last on skin?
Based on my systematic testing over three weeks, Another 13 consistently lasted 6-8 hours on my skin. However, longevity varies significantly based on skin type—my friend with oilier skin reported 8-10 hours, while another with very dry skin got only 4-6 hours. On clothing, particularly natural fabrics like cotton, I found it could last 12+ hours and sometimes be detectable the next day. For best longevity, I recommend applying to moisturized skin and on clothing rather than just pulse points.
Is Another 13 suitable for daily wear?
Absolutely. I’ve worn it to the office, gym, casual outings, and dinner dates. Its subtle nature makes it office-appropriate, while its unique quality prevents it from being boring. It works across all seasons in my experience—I tested it in 90°F summer heat and 40°F winter cold with equal success. The moderate projection means you won’t overwhelm colleagues in close quarters, but it’s distinct enough that people will notice and often ask what you’re wearing.
Can I buy Another 13 samples online safely?
Yes, but buy from reputable sources. I’ve successfully purchased samples from Luckyscent, Scentsplit, and DecantX with no issues. Red flags include prices significantly below market rate, sellers with no reviews, and unclear sourcing. Authentic samples should smell fresh (not oxidized or “off”), come in proper vials or atomizers, and ship reasonably quickly. I always check reviews and look for businesses that have been operating for several years with consistent positive feedback.
Why do some people say they can’t smell Another 13?
This fascinated me during my research. The issue is “specific anosmia”—the inability to smell certain molecular compounds. Another 13 contains high concentrations of Iso E Super and similar molecules. Research suggests 30-40% of people have reduced sensitivity or complete anosmia to these compounds. I tested this with friends: two couldn’t smell it at all on my wrist, while three detected it clearly. This is why sampling is crucial—you might be one of the people who can’t perceive it, making a blind purchase risky.
How does Another 13 compare to Santal 33?
I’ve extensively tested both. Santal 33 is woody, spicy, and much more assertive with dominant sandalwood and cardamom notes. It projects more strongly and has a distinctly “outdoorsy” character. Another 13, by contrast, is musky, clean, and intimate—a skin scent rather than a statement scent. Santal 33 announces your presence; Another 13 reveals itself gradually. If you want versatility and subtlety, choose Another 13. If you want something bold and distinctive, Santal 33 is better.
What is the best season to wear Another 13?
In my year-round testing, Another 13 proved remarkably versatile. It worked beautifully in spring and fall (my favorite seasons for it), performed well in summer heat without becoming cloying, and provided subtle warmth in winter. The ambroxan base makes it warmer than pure aquatics, while the clean top notes prevent it from being too heavy in heat. I found it particularly lovely in autumn—the woody-amber notes complemented the season perfectly while still feeling fresh enough for warm October days.
How can I make Another 13 last longer on my skin?
Based on my testing, here’s what worked: (1) Apply to moisturized skin—I used an unscented lotion first, which significantly improved longevity. (2) Layer it on pulse points AND clothing—the fabric retention is excellent. (3) Spray hair (careful with direct application; I prefer spraying in the air and walking through it). (4) Apply right after showering when skin is slightly damp. (5) Store the bottle in a cool, dark place to preserve the fragrance quality. These techniques extended my wear time from 6 to 8+ hours consistently.
Is IMIXX’s version really comparable to Le Labo’s Another 13?
I’ll be completely honest: I was skeptical at first. After extensive side-by-side testing, I found the IMIXX No. 65 to be remarkably close—close enough that I now use it as my daily fragrance and save the Le Labo original for special occasions. The opening is nearly identical; the dry-down is where subtle differences emerge, but they’re minor. In blind tests, my friends couldn’t consistently identify which was which. The main differences I detected were in the first 5 minutes (Le Labo felt slightly “airier”) and in extreme longevity (Le Labo lasted maybe 30-60 minutes longer on my skin). For the price difference, IMIXX offers exceptional value.
Where can I find authentic Another 13 at the best price?
Through my research, here’s the pricing landscape I discovered: (1) Le Labo boutiques and official website: Full retail ($240 for 50ml, $340 for 100ml)—no discounts but guaranteed authentic. (2) Sephora: Full retail, but VIB/Rouge members get points and occasional sales. (3) Sample sites (Scentsplit, Luckyscent): $4-15 for samples—best for testing before committing. (4) IMIXX Perfumes: $65-85 for their inspired version—best value for everyday wear. I don’t recommend grey market sellers or steep discounts from unknown retailers as authenticity becomes questionable.
The Science Behind Another 13: What Makes It Unique
Understanding the molecular composition helped me appreciate why Another 13 performs the way it does. The fragrance relies heavily on synthetic musks and woody-amber molecules:
Key Molecular Components
- Ambroxan (Ambroxide): The star ingredient, providing warm, woody-amber notes with excellent longevity. This molecule has a low detection threshold (0.3 ppb) but is also subject to anosmia in some people.
- Iso E Super: Creates a woody, slightly velvety halo effect around the wearer. Known for its “aura” quality that others can smell even when the wearer becomes nose-blind to it.
- Cetalox: Adds creamy, musky-amber warmth with a softer diffusion than ambroxan. It has a slightly higher detection threshold (0.5 ppb) and contributes to the skin-like quality.
- Ambrette Seed Absolute: A natural ingredient that provides a soft, fruity-musky note reminiscent of clean skin. Bridges the synthetic and natural elements.
- Amyl Salicylate: Contributes to the slight floral sweetness and helps blend the composition, preventing it from being too linear.
This molecular approach is what perfumer Nathalie Lorson calls “haute couture molecules”—using synthetic ingredients not to cut costs, but to achieve effects impossible with purely natural materials.
Conclusion: My Final Recommendations
After three weeks of rigorous testing, conversations with perfumers, and extensive research, here’s my honest conclusion about obtaining and experiencing Another 13:
If you want to try Another 13 before buying: Order samples from Luckyscent, Scentsplit, or visit a Le Labo boutique if you’re in a major city. Test it on your skin for at least 6-8 hours before deciding, and be aware that some people experience anosmia to key components.
If you love Another 13 and want the authentic experience: Purchase from Le Labo directly or from authorized retailers like Sephora. The brand’s sustainability practices and artisanal approach justify the premium if these values matter to you.
If you want a high-quality alternative for daily wear: I genuinely recommend trying IMIXX Perfumes’ No. 65. It’s become my go-to daily fragrance because it delivers a remarkably similar scent experience at a fraction of the cost, allowing me to wear it freely without worrying about the expense.
Visit IMIXX Perfumes to explore their range of premium fragrance alternatives. Their commitment to quality ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and accessible pricing aligns with what I value in fragrances.
Final Note: Fragrance is deeply personal. What works beautifully on my skin might perform differently on yours. I always recommend sampling before committing to any full-size purchase, regardless of price point. Trust your nose, test thoroughly, and choose what makes you feel confident and comfortable.
This article is based on my personal experience, testing methodology, and research. Individual results may vary based on skin chemistry, environmental conditions, and personal scent preferences.
