Yves Saint Laurent launched YSL Libre, a powerful feminine amber fougere fragrance, in 2019. Following the successful launch (it was love at first sniff for most wearers), the brand released a flanker, YSL Libre Intense, the subsequent year.
While the two perfumes remain immensely popular, this comparison post seeks to establish the better scent. Â
Libre is a light, crisp, slightly soapy scent, whereas Libre Intense is deeper, richer, creamier, and sweeter. Libre Intense also has more orchid and orange blossom but less lavender and feels more balanced.
So which is the best-smelling YSL Libre perfume? Which one should you spend your money on? There’s only one way to find out – keep reading to discover the results of our comparative sniffing.Â
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YSL Libre vs Libre Intense
These two fragrances share a common background, given that Libre Intense is a more potent interpretation of Libre. For starters, both feature lavender, vanilla, and ambergris (ambroxan), but Libre is more lavender-heavy, while with Libre intense, vanilla stands out more prominently. Â
Also, while YSL Libre is light, satiny-smooth, and unobtrusive, Libre Intense is, well, quite intense.
Quick Note: Ambroxan is more common in masculine fragrances. The note has a fuzzy, super clean, and synthetic quality.
The table below captures the key differences when it comes to Libre vs. Libre intense.
| Product | YSL Libre | YSL Libre Intense |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Lasting power | Lasts up to 10 hours | Lasts over 12 hours |
| Sillage projection | Strong | Incredibly powerful |
| Opening scent | Bubbly, zesty, fruity, and softly sweet. It gradually smoothens, becoming gentle and powdery as it dries down | Bright, sweet, and citrusy with an upbeat vibe |
| Scent | Slightly soapy lavender, a fresh and floral structure with hunts of musk | Creamy and powdery with a comfy coziness |
| Character | Ultra-sophisticated, modern, youthful | Sexy and attractive with a mature vibe |
| Best use | Spring, early autumn, daytime, work, chill evening out | Cold seasons, nightlife |
| Cost | Pricey compared to other designer scents in the same category | Slightly higher in price |
| Buy |
YSL Libre
YSL Libre
Libre by Yves Saint Laurent can be described as a bold yet decidedly floral fragrance (it’s classified as an oriental amber fougere). Hailed as an ode to freedom, it was designed by noses Anne Flipo and Carlos Benaim for daring, confident, and authentic women who set their own rules.Â
Libre Eau de Parfum key notes comprise French lavender, Moroccan orange blossom, and a musk accord. The scent opens with a tart, citrusy aroma featuring blackcurrant and Mandarin orange. Also prominent in the energetic opening is a fizzy, peppery essence from lavender.
The heart captures lavender again, along with sweet and delicate orange blossom, while the base holds a dose of ambergris, fluffy vanilla, and musk.
Overall, the effect is a light, crisp, aromatic, and undeniably feminine scent, with the vanilla balancing out the somewhat masculine lavender.Â
Libre does not possess a linear progression. Rather, it starts off bubbly and bright, then evolves into something smooth and gentle. As it progresses, you will notice various nuances, such as soft sweetness, soapiness, and powderiness, all wrapped in a modern feel, making you appreciate the fragrance even more. Â
Performance-wise, Libre delivers above-average sillage and lasting power. Perfect for all seasons, Libre is especially ideal for daytime wear.
However, it is highly versatile, meaning you can wear it to work, and it’s also suitable if you plan to go out at night. Date night? That too. Â
Libre presents in an arresting light gold flacon adorned with gold chains and topped by a black asymmetric cap. It screams elegance, echoing the fluid it carries. The outcome is a sexy, statement-making receptacle that brings to mind a slinky couture gown.Â
YSL Libre Intense
YSL Libre Intense
Libre Intense Yves Saint Laurent is a sensual composition that, like the original, embodies freedom. The great-smelling perfume’s key notes include French lavender, Moroccan orange blossom, vanilla, and orchid.
An intense floral heart balances this cologne’s bright, sweet, citrusy opening featuring bergamot and Mandarin orange. Orange blossom is prominent from the get-go, while orchid is more noticeable during the drydown. As for jasmine, it’s quite subtle.Â
At the base, warm vanilla takes over, backed by Tonka bean and ambergris for a dry, powdery, and creamy finale. The drydown is remarkably floral, too, thanks to the orchid, toning down the masculine lavender and incorporating a light feminine aura.
And when the white florals mesh with the vanilla and Tonka, Libre Intense takes on a profoundly cozier aroma with a warm sweet structure.
Sillage is where YSL Libre Intense shows its intensity. Expect over-the-top projection and staying power from this powerful fragrance. Simply put, Libre Intense lasts forever, leaving behind a lasting trail.
Frankly, it is hard to believe this is not a niche fragrance but a designer masterpiece. (Wondering what are niche fragrances? Here’s an insightful post on the same).
Season-wise, the perfume’s cozy aura is best suited for chilly weather. As such, we recommend wearing it during autumn, fall, and early spring.
Is Libre Intense Better Than Libre?
Both YSL Libre and YSL Intense boast a beautiful blend of vanilla and lavender. However, each fragrance offers a unique yet delightful interpretation of these notes after combining them with other accords.
The iconic Libre comes off as a crisp, energetic, and aromatic fragrance starring lavender and ambroxan. It smells adorable, and there’s no denying its soft, feminine essence that promises to make you smell amazing all year round.Â
Conversely, Libre Intense feels more delicate and possesses a deeper sensuality, complexity, and sweetness.
It can work for gents, too, as it possesses an androgynous quality. And while it is pricey, it’s definitely worth the splurge.
How do you choose between them? Well, it’s a close call, but here’s a helpful suggestion:
Consider Libre a must-have if you seek a worldly, easy-to-wear, all-rounded lavender-centric scent. It’s versatile, smells terrific, and is great for everyday wear. Yet, Libre Intense will suit you better if you prefer a sweeter, more sultry option with fresh flowers and a cozy sweetness.
Like all Yves Saint Laurent perfumes, both fragrances exhibit superb craftsmanship. Besides, you can’t go wrong with either, particularly if you favor lavender scents, as they are both lavender-forward (though one more than the other).
That said, we opt for YSL Libre Intense, preferring the sultry profile, deep warmth, and higher complexity it provides. Libre is good, but Libre Intense is much better.
YSL Libre Intense Fragrance Notes
- Top notes: Lavender, bergamot, Mandarin orange
- Middle notes: Lavender, orchid, Tunisian Orange Blossom, jasmine Sambac, Â
- Base notes: Madagascar Vanilla, vetiver, Tonka Bean, ambergris
YSL Libre Intense
Final Thoughts
What about you? Libre Intense vs. Libre, which do you prefer? Which of the two fragrances strikes you as a potential fragrance for day-to-day wear or a signature scent?
Remember, your signature scent forms part of your identity, so you want to be careful to choose a fragrance that best represents you. This is easier said than done with YSL Libre and YSL Libre Intense since both are charming classic perfumes with remarkable versatility.
However, there are no hard or fast rules with perfume. Follow your nose – and heart!
