JAFRA began 70 years ago in Malibu, California, at a time when the beauty industry looked very different than it does today. There weren’t nearly as many skincare brands to choose from as there are now. Today, we can hardly scroll through social media without someone introducing us to another one!

So, when I tell someone about JAFRA, every now and then I get this question: “Is JAFRA like Avon?”

And I have to admit, that’s never been an easy question for me to answer because I really don’t know that much about Avon. I do have a little history with it, though.

During my middle school years in New Jersey, I had a paper route. Yes, a paper route! I guess my entrepreneurial roots go back further than I realized. LOL. I used some of the money I earned to buy Avon products. I remember buying the fragrances Timeless and Honeysuckle, and there was another favorite that I cannot remember at the moment. And because it was the ’70s and mood rings were a thing, of course I had to have one of those, too.

That’s about where my Avon knowledge ends. So, after being asked the question enough times, I finally decided to do a little research, and here’s what I learned. Yes, JAFRA and Avon have some things in common, but they really aren’t the same.

How Are JAFRA and Avon Similar?

Let’s start with the obvious. Both JAFRA and Avon are beauty companies with roots in direct selling. Instead of the traditional retail model where you walk into a store, choose something off the shelf, and take it to the register, both companies have built relationships with customers through independent consultants or representatives.

That’s one of the things I enjoy about this type of business. You have a person you can ask, “What is this?” “How do I use it?” or my favorite, “Evelyn, what do I need?” You don’t have to stand in the middle of a beauty aisle reading labels and trying to figure everything out by yourself.

Both companies also give people an opportunity to earn income as independent business owners. The consultants aren’t employees of JAFRA or Avon. Some women may decide to build a business, while others may simply want to earn a little extra money while sharing products they already enjoy. There’s room for both.

And both companies have been around for a long time. Avon was founded in 1886 and is celebrating 140 years in 2026. JAFRA was founded in 1956 and just celebrated its 70th anniversary.

So, What’s Different About JAFRA and Avon?

This is where things started getting interesting for me. One of the biggest differences I found is in what the two companies sell. Avon has grown beyond beauty and personal care and offers things such as jewelry, fashion, and home products.

JAFRA has stayed much more focused on beauty and personal care. We have skincare, makeup, fragrances, body care, spa products, hair care, and other products that take care of you pretty much from head to toe.

That doesn’t mean one is better than the other. They’re just different. But there is one thing I can’t talk about when explaining JAFRA without mentioning it.

We Have to Talk About Royal Jelly

Royal Jelly has been part of JAFRA’s story almost from the beginning. If you’ve been around me for any amount of time, you’ve probably heard me talk about it. The original Royal Jelly Milk Balm is actually part of my own JAFRA story.

But JAFRA isn’t just Royal Jelly. Over the years, the company has developed skincare for different skin needs, makeup, spa and body products, and fragrances created with perfumers from around the world. Beauty and personal care really are at the heart of what JAFRA does.

So when someone asks me now, “Is JAFRA like Avon?” I finally have a better answer.

Is JAFRA Like Avon? Yes…and No.

There are definitely similarities. Both have been around for generations. Both have roots in direct selling. Both have given women opportunities to earn income on their own terms. Both sell beauty and personal-care products. And I’m sure there are women who can tell wonderful stories about products from both companies that they used years ago and still remember today.

But JAFRA and Avon are also two different companies with their own histories, products, and personalities. I don’t think we have to make one better than the other. They’ve both been valuable to women for different reasons.

And isn’t it funny how life works? There I was in middle school, delivering newspapers around my New Jersey neighborhood so I could earn a little spending money. Some of that money went toward my Avon fragrances and trendy jewelry. I had absolutely no idea that years later I would have a beauty business of my own and be writing a blog comparing Avon with a company that has been part of my life for more than two decades. Life has a way of bringing things full circle, doesn’t it?

Want to Know More About JAFRA?

If you found this blog because somebody mentioned JAFRA and you thought, “Wait a minute. What’s JAFRA?” I hope I answered at least some of your questions.

There’s a lot more I could tell you about the skincare, Royal Jelly, fragrances, makeup, body care, and even the opportunity to become a consultant—but that’s a lot for one conversation!

So, if you’re curious, come explore JAFRA with me. And if you have questions, just ask. You don’t have to know what you’re looking for before you reach out. That’s what I’m here for.

About Evelyn

Hi, I’m Evelyn!

For more than 26 years, I’ve been helping women over 40 care for their skin with confidence. Through Purple Essence By Evelyn, I share practical skincare education, healthy wellness habits, and intentional self-care to help women age well with grace, confidence, and purpose.

Whether you’re looking for skincare and wellness tips, product recommendations, or simple ways to prioritize yourself, I’m here to help you build a routine that’s effective, enjoyable, and easy to maintain.

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