Le Labo’s range of unisex fragrances has earned the brand a cult following among perfume aficionados. Two of their most popular scents fall into the woody, aromatic category: Another 13 and Santal 33.
While both feature notes of sandalwood, they evoke very different vibes. Keep reading for an in-depth comparison of these unique fragrances.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Aspects | Another 13 | Santal 33 |
| Top Notes | Ambroxan, Cardamom | Iris, Cardamom |
| Heart Notes | Musk, Vetiver, Cedar | Violet, Ambroxan, Papyrus |
| Base Notes | Sandalwood | Sandalwood |
| Overall Vibe | Warm, spicy, and sensual | Bright, herbal, and clean |
| Gender Lean | Masculine | Unisex/Feminine |
| Longevity | 6-8 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Projection | Moderate sillage | Close-to-skin |
| Concentration | Eau de Parfum | Eau de Cologne |
| Versatility | Nighttime and cold weather | Daytime and warm weather |
| Uniqueness | More novel blend | More mainstream |
| Value | Better value for money | Pricey for weaker longevity |
Another 13 – The Warm, Spicy Contender
With top notes of ambroxan and aromatic spices like cardamom, Another 13 envelops you in cozy warmth right from the initial spritz. As it dries down, the prominent heart notes of musk, vetiver, and cedar add rich depth and complexity.
Finally, the sandalwood base grounds the scent with its familiar creamy woodiness.
Another 13 distinguishes itself from other sandalwood fragrances thanks to ambroxan, a synthetic material with a soft, ambery character.
This adds a contemporary twist to the classic sandalwood accord.
The interplay between the spicy cardamom, animalic musk, and smooth sandalwood makes this an ideal evening fragrance.
It’s bold yet comforting – perfect for date night or special occasions.
With moderate sillage and longevity lasting 6-8 hours on skin, Another 13 performs well for an eau de parfum concentration. The cozy warmth envelops you in an invisible aura without overpowering. This versatility makes it suitable for indoor and outdoor wear.
Santal 33 – The Bright, Herbaceous Challenger
Santal 33 also highlights sandalwood in its base notes, but takes a brighter, more herbaceous direction overall. Fresh top notes of iris and cardamom add a clean nuance, while the heart features violet, Ambroxan, and papyrus.
The violet note lends a subtle powdery floralcy, contrasting the earthy iris and spices.
Finally, the creamy Australian sandalwood base completes the composition with a familiar milky woodiness.
Santal 33 feels more luminous and uplifting compared to the nighttime sensuality of Another 13.
The brighter herbs and florals give it a more unisex edge.
Longevity and sillage fall short compared to Another 13, at about 4-6 hours with close-to-skin projection.
However, the airy eau de cologne concentration prevents Santal 33 from ever feeling cloying. This makes it quite versatile for daytime wear.
Comparison of Le Labo’s Another 13 And Santal 33
- Comparing Overall Aesthetics
Another 13 clearly aims for sensual evening appeal with its ambery warmth and spicy depth. Santal 33 has more of a clean, herbaceous character suited for workplace or casual daytime wear.
In terms of overall vibe, Another 13 feels more mature and masculine-leaning, while Santal 33 skews slightly more feminine and youthful. However, both fragrances remain perfectly unisex. It mainly comes down to when you prefer to wear each style.
- Which Lasts Longer?
With its eau de parfum concentration and nourishing base notes, Another 13 definitely has the edge when it comes to longevity. It maintains clear projection for a good 6-8 hours on skin.
Santal 33’s lighter eau de cologne formulation noticeably fades faster, lasting about 4-6 hours at most.
- Which One is More Unique?
While sandalwood is the star of both fragrances, Another 13 stands out for its novel blend of ambroxan, animalic musk, and spices. Santal 33’s brighter, cleaner composition feels a bit more mainstream.
If you love warm, enveloping scents with contemporary appeal, Another 13 is arguably the more unique choice.
- Which is More Versatile?
Santal 33’s lightweight eau de cologne concentration gives it an airy, delicate character perfect for warm-weather wear. Its luminous herbal notes feel equally at home in casual and professional settings.
While Another 13 can work during the day, its sensual ambroxan and musk notes make it better suited for nighttime and cold weather. Santal 33 ultimately wins for day-to-night versatility. Here is a cool review on Another 13!
- Which One is More Worth the Price?
With a 3.4oz bottle retailing around $165, Le Labo fragrances certainly demand premium pricing. However, the high quality natural ingredients and unique artisanal blends justify the investment for fans of the brand.
Between these two options, Another 13 offers greater value with its richer, longer-lasting eau de parfum concentration. Santal 33’s faster fading eau de cologne formulation makes the similarly high price tag harder to swallow.
Overall, Another 13 gives you more scent for your buck.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Another 13 opens with a spicy cardamom note before drying down into a creamy sandalwood base heightened by musk and ambroxan. Overall, it’s a warm, ambery oriental fragrance with contemporary appeal.
Santal 33’s bright, herbal scent profile is reminiscent of other fresh woody fragrances like Diptyque’s Tam Dao or Acqua di Parma’s Colonia Sandalo. Its iris note also lends a subtle powdery floralcy.
While Santal 33 skews slightly more masculine than Another 13, it remains quite unisex overall thanks to the delicate florals and airy eau de cologne concentration. Women definitely can and do wear Santal 33.
Le Labo 33 highlights vetiver and cedar notes over sandalwood, making it fresher and woodier than Another 13 or Santal 33. Its tobacco flower note adds sweet nuance. Overall, expect a crisp, green woody scent.
The Verdict: It Depends on Your Taste
Another 13 and Santal 33 prove why Le Labo scents deserve their stellar reputation. Both offer luxurious, unique takes on sandalwood. Another 13 will seduce you with its spicy warmth and sensual base. Santal 33 feels more luminous and casual with its herbal brightness.
Ultimately, it comes down to your personal perfume taste and when you plan to wear each one. Another 13 makes a statement for evenings out, while Santal 33 shines as an everyday unisex option.
For the richest, longest-lasting sandalwood scent, Another 13 narrowly wins – but you can’t go wrong with either of these enticing wood aromas.