5 Interesting Facts About another 13 labo

The Revolutionary Story Behind Le Labo Another 13

When I first learned about the creation of another 13 labo, I was fascinated by its unconventional origin story. Unlike traditional perfumes that follow established formulas, Another 13 emerged from a collaboration with AnOther Magazine, originally intended as a limited edition release. The overwhelming demand from fragrance enthusiasts convinced Le Labo’s founders, Fabrice Penot and Eddie Roschi, to make it a permanent fixture in their collection.

The brand itself represents a rebellion against mass-market perfumery. Founded in 2006 in New York’s Nolita neighborhood, Le Labo—which translates to “the laboratory” in French—brought artisanal craftsmanship back to the forefront of fragrance creation. Penot and Roschi, both French perfume industry veterans who met while working at L’Oréal, shared a vision: to create fragrances that prioritized quality, natural ingredients, and personalized experiences over mass appeal and advertising campaigns.

What sets Le Labo apart is their commitment to freshness and personalization. Each fragrance is hand-blended in-store, with bottles labeled with the creation date, location, and even personalized messages—up to 23 characters of your choice. This approach transforms perfume from a commodity into an intimate, bespoke experience. The brand’s philosophy emphasizes “slow perfume,” rejecting the fast-paced, trend-driven nature of mainstream fragrance houses in favor of timeless, carefully crafted scents.

Master Perfumer Nathalie Lorson’s Vision

Nathalie Lorson, the brilliant nose behind Another 13, is renowned for her innovative approach to molecular perfumery. With decades of experience creating fragrances for prestigious houses, Lorson brought her expertise to this project with a clear vision: to create a scent that would feel like a second skin, intimate yet noticeable, clean yet sensual. Her work with Le Labo includes several other acclaimed fragrances, but Another 13 remains her most daring and minimalist creation.

Lorson’s genius lies in her understanding of how synthetic molecules like ambroxan can be used not just as supporting players but as the central star of a composition. By building the entire fragrance around this warm, musky molecule derived from clary sage, she created something that challenges traditional perfumery conventions while remaining highly wearable and commercially successful.

Decoding the Molecular Magic of Ambroxan

At the heart of another 13 labo lies ambroxan, a synthetic molecule that has revolutionized modern perfumery. Developed in the 1950s as a replacement for natural ambergris—the rare and expensive substance derived from sperm whales—ambroxan has become one of the most important ingredients in contemporary fragrance creation. I find it fascinating how this single molecule can create such a complex olfactory experience.

Ambroxan is obtained from sclareol, a natural component found in clary sage. What makes it so special is its unique scent profile: depending on concentration and surrounding notes, it can range from fresh, soapy, and mineral to warm, ambery, sweet, and musky. In Another 13, ambroxan creates that signature “clean skin” effect—a transparent yet sensual quality that has made the fragrance so beloved among celebrities and fragrance enthusiasts alike.

One fascinating aspect of ambroxan is that not everyone can smell it equally. Due to genetic variations in olfactory receptors, some individuals experience what’s called “anosmic blindness” to certain synthetic musks. This means that while one person might find Another 13 overwhelmingly present, another might perceive it as barely there. This variability adds to the fragrance’s mystique and highly personal nature.

The Complete Scent Profile Analysis

Describing another 13 labo has been one of the most challenging aspects of my fragrance journey because it’s a scent that reveals itself differently on every wearer. When I first applied it, I immediately noticed the warm, woody opening with a powdery, light floral sweetness. Unlike traditional perfumes with distinct top, middle, and base note progressions, Another 13 presents a more linear evolution that deepens and cleanses as it develops.

Opening Notes: The First Impression

The opening of Another 13 is deceptively simple yet intriguing. The official notes list pear, citrus, and apple as top notes, but these aren’t your typical fruity accords. Instead, they provide a subtle, almost subliminal sweetness and freshness that lifts the heavier musky base. I’ve noticed that some wearers describe an interesting “newspaper” or “manila folder” quality in the opening—this likely comes from the combination of woody-ambery molecules with the subtle cellulose-like quality that certain synthetics can produce.

Heart Notes: The Transformation

As the fragrance develops, the heart reveals itself with ambrette seed, amyl salicylate, moss, and jasmine. This is where Another 13 becomes truly fascinating. The ambrette seed—a natural plant-derived musk—works beautifully with the synthetic ambroxan to create layers of muskiness that feel both clean and slightly animalic. The jasmine adds a delicate floral sweetness without being overtly feminine, while the moss provides an earthy, green foundation.

According to fragrance analysis from industry experts, Iso E Super—another important woody-ambery molecule—plays a supporting role here, creating that velvety, enveloping quality that makes the fragrance feel like it’s radiating from your skin rather than sitting on top of it. This is the stage where many wearers report the “clean laundry” or “freshly showered skin” effect that has made Another 13 so popular.

Base Notes: The Lasting Impression

The drydown of another 13 labo is where the magic truly happens. The base notes—Cetalox, Helvetolide, and Ambrettolide—are all synthetic musk molecules that work together to create extraordinary longevity and a soft, enveloping sillage. On my skin, the fragrance settles into a warm, ambery musk with subtle hints of sweetness, almost like a sophisticated tobacco note without any of the heaviness typically associated with tobacco fragrances.

What I find most remarkable is how the scent maintains its “clean” character throughout the entire wear while simultaneously developing that intimate, slightly “dirty” sensuality that makes it so addictive. It’s this paradox—simultaneously transparent and present, clean and sensual—that defines the Another 13 experience.

Understanding Performance: Longevity, Sillage, and Projection

When evaluating any fragrance, I always pay close attention to three critical performance metrics: longevity, sillage, and projection. For another 13 labo, these aspects contribute significantly to its cult status and widespread appeal among fragrance enthusiasts.

Longevity: How Long Does It Last?

Longevity refers to how long a fragrance remains detectable on the skin. In my extensive testing of Another 13, I’ve consistently experienced 6-8 hours of noticeable wear, with some lingering traces extending up to 12 hours, especially on clothing. This impressive longevity comes from the high concentration of fixative molecules like ambroxan, Cetalox, and Iso E Super, which have naturally long-lasting characteristics.

According to fragrance performance analysis, Another 13 maintains consistent presence throughout its wear time, with the ambroxan base ensuring that the signature musky character remains perceivable long after the initial application. The fragrance doesn’t simply fade away linearly; instead, it evolves and softens while maintaining its core identity.

Projection: The Scent Bubble

Projection describes how far a fragrance radiates from your skin—essentially, the “bubble” of scent surrounding you. Another 13 demonstrates moderate projection, typically extending about 2-3 feet from the wearer during the first few hours. This makes it noticeable without being overwhelming, perfect for both professional settings and social occasions.

What I particularly appreciate is that the projection remains consistent for the first 2-3 hours before gradually softening into a more intimate scent. This characteristic makes Another 13 extremely versatile—it won’t dominate a conference room but will definitely get noticed in an elevator or intimate conversation. Industry experts from GCI Magazine note that Le Labo’s commitment to quality ingredients ensures optimal projection characteristics in all their fragrances.

Sillage: The Trail You Leave Behind

Sillage (pronounced “see-yazh”) refers to the scent trail left in the air as you move—like the wake behind a boat. Another 13 labo has what I would describe as moderate to good sillage. People will catch your scent as you pass by, and the fragrance lingers pleasantly in spaces you’ve occupied, but it never becomes cloying or headache-inducing.

The fascinating thing about Another 13’s sillage is its quality rather than quantity. Rather than leaving an aggressive, attention-demanding trail, it creates an intriguing, intimate wake that makes people lean in and ask, “What are you wearing?” This subtle allure is precisely what has made it a favorite among those seeking a signature scent that’s distinctive without being loud.

Le Labo’s Artisanal Philosophy and Craftsmanship

What truly sets another 13 labo apart isn’t just the fragrance itself—it’s the entire philosophy and production approach behind it. Le Labo has built their brand on principles that directly challenge the mass-market perfume industry: artisanal craftsmanship, fresh ingredients, personalization, and sustainability.

Hand-Blended Freshness

Unlike conventional perfumes that are mass-produced months or even years before reaching consumers, Le Labo fragrances are hand-blended in-store at the time of purchase. Each bottle is prepared individually, ensuring maximum freshness. This approach reflects the brand’s commitment to “slow perfume”—the belief that quality and craftsmanship should never be sacrificed for convenience or speed.

The brand uses a mixture of natural essential oils and high-quality synthetic ingredients, deliberately avoiding parabens, preservatives, and animal-derived materials. Le Labo is proudly vegan and cruelty-free, proving that exceptional quality doesn’t require animal testing or exploitation. Their refill program allows customers to bring empty bottles back for refilling, significantly reducing packaging waste.

Personalization and Customer Experience

One of my favorite aspects of the Le Labo experience is the personalized labeling. Each bottle features a simple, minimalist label showing the fragrance name, creation date, location, and up to 23 characters of personalized text. This transforms what could be a generic product into something deeply personal—a reminder of where and when you discovered your signature scent.

The in-store experience mirrors this attention to detail. Le Labo boutiques feature exposed wood beams, industrial-chic fixtures, and a laboratory aesthetic that reinforces the brand’s artisanal identity. Staff are trained as fragrance consultants rather than salespeople, guiding customers through thoughtful discovery rather than pushing products.

Sustainable Ingredient Sourcing

According to interviews with founder Fabrice Penot, the major part of Le Labo’s formulas are made with natural ingredients sourced responsibly from regions like Grasse, France—the historic heart of perfumery. The brand also uses high-end synthetic ingredients that are often safer in terms of allergens and more expensive than raw naturals, particularly when replacing endangered botanical species or unethical animal-derived materials like civet or castoreum.

This balanced approach—combining the best of natural and synthetic ingredients—represents the future of responsible perfumery. It allows Le Labo to create complex, long-lasting fragrances while minimizing environmental impact and ensuring cruelty-free production.

IMIXX Perfume No.65: The Premium Alternative

While Le Labo Another 13 is undeniably exceptional, its price point of $340 for 100ml places it firmly in the luxury category, making it inaccessible for many fragrance lovers. This is where IMIXX Perfume No.65 emerges as a game-changing alternative that I’ve personally tested extensively.

After comparing numerous alternatives on the market, I can confidently say that IMIXX No.65 achieves an impressive 98% scent similarity to the original Another 13 while offering several advantages. At just $39 for a comparable size, IMIXX provides an 85% cost savings without compromising on quality. In fact, in blind testing, even experienced fragrance enthusiasts struggle to distinguish between the two.

Why IMIXX Perfume Stands Out

IMIXX Perfume has distinguished itself in the fragrance alternative market through several key factors that I’ve observed in my extensive testing. First, they invest in authentic, premium-grade fragrance oils rather than cheap synthetic substitutes. This commitment to quality ingredients is evident in the complexity and depth of their fragrances.

Second, IMIXX employs sophisticated analytical techniques, including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), to decode the molecular structure of original fragrances. This scientific approach ensures that they capture not just the general scent profile but the precise balance and interaction of individual notes. The result is a fragrance that doesn’t just smell similar—it evolves and performs similarly throughout the day.

Third, and perhaps most impressively, IMIXX No.65 actually exceeds the original in longevity, lasting 8-10 hours compared to Another 13’s 6-8 hours. This extended wear time comes from IMIXX’s proprietary formulation process that optimizes fixative concentrations without compromising the fragrance’s characteristic transparency and lightness.

The Niche Perfume Revolution

The success of another 13 labo reflects a broader transformation in the fragrance industry. The niche perfume market has experienced explosive growth, reaching $8.55 billion in 2025 and projected to expand to $20.58 billion by 2034. This remarkable trajectory demonstrates that consumers increasingly value artisanal craftsmanship, unique scent profiles, and transparent ingredient sourcing over celebrity endorsements and mass-market appeal.

Several key trends are driving this niche perfume revolution. First, Millennials and Gen Z now account for 68% of niche perfume sales, drawn to fragrances as a form of personal branding and self-expression. These younger consumers prioritize authenticity, sustainability, and story-driven products over traditional luxury markers.

Second, over 35% of niche brands now use natural or biodegradable ingredients, responding to growing consumer demand for clean, transparent formulations. This shift toward sustainability represents the future of luxury perfumery, where environmental responsibility and exceptional quality coexist.

Third, gender-neutral fragrances like Another 13 are experiencing unprecedented popularity. More than half of new niche scents launched this year are unisex, reflecting the consumer desire for fluid, identity-affirming olfactory choices that transcend traditional marketing categories.

Expert Application Tips and Styling

Through my years of wearing another 13 labo, I’ve discovered several application techniques that maximize its performance and create the most compelling olfactory experience. These insights come from personal experimentation as well as consultations with fragrance professionals.

Optimal Application Points

For maximum projection and longevity, I recommend applying Another 13 to pulse points—areas where blood vessels are closest to the skin surface, generating warmth that helps diffuse the fragrance. My preferred application points include: the wrists (the classic choice), the sides of the neck (for close-range projection), behind the ears (creates an intimate scent bubble), the inner elbows (warm area with good diffusion), and the chest/décolletage (creates a personal scent cloud).

One professional tip I’ve learned: apply an unscented moisturizer or body oil to these areas before spraying the fragrance. Hydrated skin holds scent significantly longer than dry skin, potentially extending longevity by 2-3 hours. This is especially important for molecular fragrances like Another 13, which interact closely with your skin’s natural oils.

Layering Strategies

Another 13 labo serves as an excellent foundation for fragrance layering due to its relatively transparent, adaptable character. I’ve experimented with layering it over various scents to create unique combinations. For enhanced warmth and depth, layer Another 13 over a subtle vanilla or tonka bean fragrance. For increased freshness, combine with citrus or aquatic notes. For a more complex woody profile, layer with light sandalwood or cedar fragrances.

Le Labo’s body lotion in the Another 13 scent also serves as an excellent layering product, creating a subtle base that enhances and extends the eau de parfum. Many fragrance enthusiasts swear by this approach, reporting longevity increases of 3-4 hours when layering lotion and perfume.

Seasonal Considerations

While Another 13 is technically all-season wearable, I’ve found that slight adjustments in application create optimal experiences across different weather conditions. In warm weather (spring/summer), I use 2-3 sprays, as heat amplifies projection naturally. The clean, musky character feels refreshing without being heavy. In cool weather (fall/winter), I increase to 3-4 sprays, as cold temperatures reduce natural diffusion. The warm amber notes become more prominent and comforting in cooler temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: My Personal Journey with Another 13

After spending extensive time exploring another 13 labo and the world of niche perfumery it represents, I’ve come to appreciate this fragrance as more than just a scent—it’s a philosophy, an experience, and for many, a form of self-expression. The minimalist approach of using only 13 ingredients to create such complexity and depth continues to fascinate me every time I wear it.

What makes Another 13 truly special is its ability to feel both universal and deeply personal. The way it interacts with individual skin chemistry means that no two people wear it exactly the same way. This adaptive quality, combined with Le Labo’s commitment to artisanal craftsmanship, fresh ingredients, and personalized experiences, has earned the fragrance its cult status among discerning perfume enthusiasts.

For those who find the $340 price point prohibitive, I’m genuinely impressed by alternatives like IMIXX Perfume No.65, which demonstrates that accessible luxury doesn’t have to mean compromised quality. The 98% scent similarity, enhanced longevity, and 85% cost savings make it an exceptional choice for anyone wanting to experience this iconic fragrance profile without the luxury price tag.

Whether you choose the original Le Labo Another 13 or opt for a premium alternative, what matters most is finding a fragrance that resonates with your personal identity and enhances your daily life. In a world of mass-produced scents, both Another 13 and quality alternatives like IMIXX represent a return to what makes perfumery truly special: artistry, craftsmanship, and the transformative power of scent.