What is it? Known universally as a bright and sunny bitter fruit, lemon (Citrus limon) is a member of the citrus family along with orange, lime, grapefruit and tangerine. Prized for its acidic quality, lemon has long been a household staple and the lemon's fragrant essential oil (found in the rind) can be used for cooking, perfumery, cleaning, cosmetics and even healing.

Lemon has many cosmetic uses and can be found in a remarkably large number of skincare products, especially glycolic acid treatments. Containing up to 8 % citric acid, lemon is a potent source of natural glycolic acid, along with apples, grapes, sugar cane and milk, making it an ideal chemical exfoliant and skin smoother.

You'll find it in: Lemon can be found in dozens of skincare products including moisturizers and eye creams, cellulite creams, hair lightener, lip balm, sunblock, shampoo and conditioner, hair lighteners, perfumes, after shaves and even toothpaste. The refreshing scent of lemon is also popular in potpourri, candles, bath and shower gel and muscle soaks.

Our product picks: Start off your day with Bliss Lemon + Sage Soapy Sap, a delightfully invigorating shower gel that can also be poured into the tub to create a soothing retreat. To keep hands clean and soft in the kitchen, call on L'Occitane Verbena Harvest Cleansing Hand Wash. The antibacterial properties of lemon will help stave off germs and keep hands clean and ready to tackle the next cooking job.

Finally, to boost overall wellness, drink up! Dr. Brandt Antioxidant Water Booster Lemon is a quick way to enjoy the antioxidant benefits of lemon, simply by adding a few drops to water or juice.

Who should avoid it? Generally considered very safe, most people will have no sensitivity to lemon, making it an extremely versatile and useful ingredient. However, if you know you are allergic to lemons or citrus fruit, discontinue using any product that contains lemon and immediately call your doctor.

What you can expect: In addition to smelling great, regular use of products containing lemon will leave the skin soft, exfoliated and glowing. If you haven't already, investigate the myriad of benefits lemon, for health, beauty and well being.

See also:

Pomegranate

Purify with Pumpkin

Honey's Sweet Benefits for Your Skin