A Practical Guide to Finding Your Signature Scent—Without the Overwhelm

Fragrance has always been part of Ray Mauro’s story. Growing up with a father who spent 50 years in corporate sales at Estée Lauder, Ray was surrounded by iconic scents from an early age. What began as curiosity became a lifelong passion.

Today, with more than 23 years in beauty and fragrance product development, Ray leads Avon’s fragrance category—creating beloved scents such as Live Out Loud, LYRD, and Avon Senses.

Ray describes fragrance as “a way to tell a story, evoke a mood, and spark nostalgia.” Each scent is thoughtfully crafted to inspire confidence and joy—blending the comfort of the familiar with the excitement of something fresh and new.

Why do fragrances change when worn by different people?

Ray: I like to call this your “signature touch.” Have you ever smelled your favorite fragrance on someone else and suddenly felt you’re not so in love with it anymore or perhaps like it more on someone else’s skin? This is because we are all unique in our body chemistry. Our skin releases oils, and the balance of those oils varies from person to person.

Or perhaps you prefer the smell out of the bottle and less on your skin. If that’s the case, simply apply spraying at an arm’s length away and walk into the fragrance instead of spraying directly on pulse points. This will have less interaction with your body chemistry and smell exactly the way it does out of the bottle.

Can I spray my fragrance in my hair?

Ray: One should avoid spraying Eau de Parfum directly on their hair. EDP’s have high levels of alcohol which can leave hair dry and brittle. Instead, try a hair mist.

Is it normal to wear different fragrances at the same time?

Ray: I always encourage people to be their own perfumer. Have fun and experiment with your fragrance wardrobe through fragrance combining to create signature blends that fit the mood or need.

Is it possible to make my fragrances last longer on my skin?

Ray: Absolutely. Fragrance wears the best when applied to your skin, but not all skin is equally hydrated. To have a fragrance last longer, apply a thin layer of unscented body lotion after your shower or before reapplying.

Is there a right and wrong way to spray a fragrance? If there is a right way, how do I do that?

Ray: Not necessarily, but a word of caution: Rubbing the pulse points too aggressively can cause friction and potentially change the intended character of the fragrance’s top notes.

I’m shopping for a gift; how do I pick the right fragrance?

Ray: Try to do some investigating beforehand. Understanding if the gift recipient prefers fresh or warm notes will greatly improve your selection process.

What are the differences between an Eau De Parfum and an Eau De Toilette?

Ray: Eau de Toilette is formulated with lower fragrance levels, typically around 5% to 10% fragrance oil. Eau de Parfum’s are usually crafted with higher fragrance levels, anywhere from 11% to 18%

I want to wear a fragrance to work, and I need something subtle; where do I start?

Ray: I truly believe any fragrance can be worn any time of the day, but it will all depend on which types of fragrances give you purpose, inspire you or capture your love. Don’t try to force-fit a fragrance for an occasion. Wear what you love; just dial down the intensity if it’s to be worn around others all day.

Are brands’ legacy fragrances making their comeback? If so, why?

Ray: Society’s urgent desire for a means to heal has resulted in an enormous rise in legacy fragrances and once-popular fragrance materials. And why is that? It’s because fragrance has the ability to express the inexpressible: a language of feelings, emotions, and imagery. As we emerge from a global crisis and chaotic events, we dream of a cathartic outlet that can help us all reconnect to our inner joy. We celebrate positivity and seek a means to smile, laugh and reconnect. Nostalgic scents are an immediate pathway to these emotions. Think about the smell of Mimosa and Hyacinth blooming in the spring and how they elicit happy memories, inspire creativity and renew our spirits. Avon Classics Dreamlife is no exception and uses these very ingredients to help enlighten the soul.

soft floral
Avon Classics Dreamlife Cologne
Mimosa flower, rose and amber. 1.7 fl. oz. 236-227

Now that you have some of your top fragrance questions answered, it’s time to take that next step in finding your perfect fragrance!

Your Next Step: Find the Fragrance That Fits Your Life Today

Now that you have expert answers to your top fragrance questions, it’s time to trust your instincts and explore with confidence.

✨ Discover a scent that feels familiar, modern, and unmistakably you.

Explore curated classics, modern favorites, and signature-worthy scents designed to support your lifestyle—and your approach to healthy aging.

👉 Start exploring your perfect fragrance today.

Need a little inspiration? Take my 1-Minute FRAGRANCE QUIZ for personalized scent recommendations and practical fragrance tips—no fluff, just what works for you.

Let’s find a fragrance that moves with you and evolves beautifully over time.

Warm regards,
Nancy, Avon Lady NJ