Le Labo Goes From New York Lab to Global Fragrance Under Estée Lauder

Le Labo’s fragrances are minimalist in naming and composition: each scent takes its title from its lead ingredient and the number of materials used — for example, Santal 33 features sandalwood among 33 components, while Rose 31 includes thirty‑one. The brand’s emphasis lies not only in scent but also in ritual.

Stores resemble mini laboratories, where perfumes are hand‑blended on demand to highlight craftsmanship and connection. Ownership and Acquisition by Estée Lauder At launch, Le Labo operated as a small-scale artisanal brand with growing cult appeal.

By 2011, its Santal 33 fragrance — introduced after fans began asking for a candle scent reimagined as a perfume — became the breakout product that propelled it into global recognition.

In 2014, The Estée Lauder Companies acquired Le Labo for an estimated $60 million, adding it to its portfolio of luxury beauty names that spans Tom Ford Beauty and Jo Malone London…