Fragrances evolve in three stages on your skin. These three stages of evolution are more commonly known as the notes of a fragrance - the top, middle and base notes. The tool used to describe a fragrance's evolution is the Olfactive Pyramid. The spirit of a fragrance is found in its Top (or Head) Notes, which are the first to evaporate. These notes are located at the top of the Olfactive Pyramid, and include Citrus and Aromatic notes. A fragrance's personality lies in its Middle (or Mid) Notes. These Middle Notes appear after the Top Notes have evaporated. Florals, Greens, Fruits and Spices are found in the middle of the Olfactive Pyramid. Last, but definitely not least, are the Base Notes, located at the bottom or base of the Olfactive Pyramid. The Base Notes define the imprint of a fragrance. These are longer-lasting notes that linger on your skin throughout the day, and include Woods and Balsamics. Understanding the three evolutionary stages or notes of a fragrance will make it far easier to find a fragrance on eBay that is right for you. For example, one fragrance is described as an Oriental Woody Vanilla, with a Top Note of Cocoa, a Middle Note of Vanilla and a Base Note of Patchouli. Using the Olfactive Pyramid as your guide, you will know that Cocoa comprises the spirit of the fragrance. Cocoa will be the first note to appear after applying the fragrance. As the scent of Cocoa evaporates, Vanilla, the fragrance's personality, will appear. The imprint of the fragrance, Patchouli, will be the note that lingers throughout the day on your skin.