When it comes to fragrance, Yves Saint Laurent is synonymous with bold elegance, seductive compositions, and timeless appeal. But beyond artistry and allure, one question always lingers for perfume lovers and collectors alike: Which YSL scents actually last the longest? Whether you’re investing in a signature scent for daily wear or seeking a fragrance that will linger from morning to midnight, performance matters.
In this guide, we’ll explore the Yves Saint Laurent fragrance collection through the lens of longevity. Backed by community feedback, expert reviews, and real-world wear tests, this roundup will help you discover the most enduring Yves Saint Laurent scents—and maybe even your next signature fragrance.
Which Yves Saint Laurent Fragrance Lasts the Longest
From powerhouse perfumes that project for hours to understated elixirs that cling to the skin all day, we’ll break down which YSL creations are worth your attention for their lasting power.
YSL La Nuit de L’Homme Le Parfum
Longevity: 8–10 hours
Why It Lasts: A richer, deeper take on the original, this version enhances the spicy cardamom, creamy vanilla, and patchouli base for improved staying power.
Community Praise: Known as a sexy date-night staple that leaves a long-lasting impression.
YSL La Nuit de L’Homme Le Parfum is a deeper, more intense interpretation of the original La Nuit de L’Homme, blending spicy cardamom with smooth lavender, creamy vanilla, and earthy patchouli. This fragrance exudes sensuality and sophistication, making it a favorite for evening wear and date nights. Its warm, ambery base enhances longevity, allowing the scent to linger on the skin for hours while maintaining its seductive, mysterious vibe.
Longevity: 8–10 hours
Why It Lasts: A richer, deeper take on the original, this version enhances the spicy cardamom, creamy vanilla, and patchouli base for improved staying power.
Community Praise: Known as a sexy date-night staple that leaves a long-lasting impression.
YSL La Nuit de L’Homme Le Parfum is a deeper, more intense interpretation of the original La Nuit de L’Homme, blending spicy cardamom with smooth lavender, creamy vanilla, and earthy patchouli. This fragrance exudes sensuality and sophistication, making it a favorite for evening wear and date nights. Its warm, ambery base enhances longevity, allowing the scent to linger on the skin for hours while maintaining its seductive, mysterious vibe.
YSL Y Le Parfum
Longevity: 10–12 hours
Why It Lasts: A bold blend of apple, incense, and tonka bean with a modern aromatic-amber base.
Fragrantica Consensus: Considered a beast mode fragrance for cooler weather and nighttime wear.
YSL Y Le Parfum is a bold, modern fougère that combines crisp apple and spicy ginger with rich notes of sage, tonka bean, and smoky incense. It strikes a perfect balance between freshness and warmth, making it versatile for both daytime and evening wear. With its powerful projection and impressive longevity, Y Le Parfum stands out as one of the most long-lasting and compliment-worthy fragrances in the YSL lineup.
YSL Libre Intense
Longevity: 8–10 hours
Why It Lasts: The lavender-vanilla combo is enriched with tonka bean and warm florals, making it cling to the skin.
Reddit Feedback: Frequently recommended for women seeking a powerful, confident fragrance that turns heads.
YSL Libre Intense is a bold and sensual floral fragrance that amplifies the signature lavender and orange blossom of the original with warm, rich notes of vanilla and tonka bean. It exudes confidence and sophistication, blending femininity with an edge of intensity. Known for its strong sillage and long-lasting performance, Libre Intense is a go-to scent for those who want to leave a lasting impression.
YSL Kouros
Longevity: 10–12 hours
Why It Lasts: A vintage powerhouse with musky, aldehydic, and animalic notes—definitely not for the faint of heart.
Nostalgic Icon: A legend in fragrance circles, still respected for its unrelenting strength.
YSL Kouros is a daring, iconic fragrance that blends aldehydes, musk, incense, and spices to create a bold, animalic scent that commands attention. Released in the 1980s, it embodies masculine power and confidence with a vintage flair that’s both polarizing and unforgettable. Known for its beast-mode longevity and strong projection, Kouros remains a cult classic among fragrance enthusiasts who appreciate its unapologetically bold character.
YSL Black Opium Extreme
Longevity: 8–10 hours
Why It Lasts: The coffee-vanilla combo is intensified for a deeper, darker, and longer-lasting profile.
Influencer Favorite: Often mentioned in “best long-lasting gourmand” fragrance roundups for women.
YSL Black Opium Extreme takes the signature addictive coffee and vanilla blend of the original and intensifies it with deeper notes of cacao and patchouli for a richer, darker twist. This fragrance is bold, seductive, and unapologetically feminine, perfect for nighttime wear or when you want to make a statement. With its enhanced depth and long-lasting performance, it’s a favorite among those who love warm, gourmand scents with a sensual edge.
YSL Babycat
- Longevity: 10–12 hours
- Why It Lasts: Incense, vanilla, suede, and black pepper give it a dense, smoky texture that lingers beautifully.
- Fragrance Insiders’ Pick: Highly praised in niche communities for its luxurious feel and longevity.
YSL Babycat is a luxurious, niche-style fragrance from the Le Vestiaire des Parfums collection that blends warm vanilla with smoky incense, rich suede, and spicy black pepper. It delivers a refined yet edgy scent profile that feels both comforting and sophisticated. With impressive longevity and a smooth, resinous dry down, Babycat has become a cult favorite for those who appreciate elegant, long-lasting fragrances with a bold personality.
Yves Saint Laurent has built a reputation for crafting bold, sophisticated scents that not only captivate the senses but also stand the test of time—literally. From the seductive allure of La Nuit de L’Homme Le Parfum to the smoky elegance of Babycat, YSL offers a diverse range of long-lasting fragrances that cater to every mood and occasion. Whether you’re seeking a daytime staple like Y Le Parfum or a rich evening scent like Black Opium Extreme, these powerhouse picks prove that when it comes to performance, YSL delivers. If longevity is at the top of your fragrance checklist, you can confidently turn to this iconic house for a scent that lingers long after you’ve left the room.
