Lemons are one of the most versatile fruits out there. Not only are they a great source of vitamin C, but they also have a wide range of uses beyond just adding flavor to your food.

In fact, lemons have a number of properties that make them ideal for everything from cleaning to skin care. Here are 9 uses of lemon that will make your hands happy.

1. Remove Stains from Hands

If you’ve been doing some gardening or working with your hands, there’s a good chance that you have some unsightly stains on your skin. Fortunately, lemons can help.

Simply rub a cut lemon over your stains, let the juice sit for a few minutes, and then rinse your hands in warm water. The citric acid in the lemon will help to break down the stains, leaving your hands clean and fresh.

2. Fade Age Spots

As we age, our skin may develop small brown spots, also known as age spots. If you’re looking to fade these spots, lemon juice can be a surprisingly effective remedy.

Simply dab a bit of lemon juice onto the affected areas each day, and watch as the acid in the juice helps to lighten the spots over time.

3. Soften Rough Skin

If you have rough patches of skin on your hands, whether from dryness or calluses, lemon juice can help to soften them up. Mix equal parts lemon juice and honey, and then massage the mixture into your skin.

The honey will moisturize your skin, while the citric acid in the lemon juice will help to break down dead skin cells.

4. Remove Nail Polish

If you’re out of nail polish remover, or you’re trying to avoid the harsh chemicals that often come with it, lemon juice can serve as a natural alternative.

Simply soak your nails in lemon juice for a few minutes, and then use a cotton ball to wipe away the polish.

5. Deodorize Hands

If your hands are smelling less than fresh, lemon juice can help. Rub a cut lemon over your hands, working the juice into your skin and fingernails. The acid in the lemon will help to neutralize odors, leaving your hands smelling clean and fresh.

6. Treat Sunburn

If you’ve spent too much time in the sun, you may be experiencing the painful effects of sunburn. Fortunately, lemons can help to soothe and heal your skin. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water, and then apply the mixture to your sunburned skin.

The vitamin C in the lemon juice will help to promote healing, while the water will hydrate your skin.

7. Exfoliate Skin

If you’re looking to brighten up dull, tired-looking skin on your hands, lemon juice can serve as a natural exfoliant. Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with 1 tablespoon of sugar, and then scrub the mixture onto your skin for a few minutes.

The sugar will help to slough off dead skin cells, while the lemon juice will help to brighten your skin.

8. Strengthen Nails

Healthy nails start with healthy cuticles. If you’re looking to nourish your nails and prevent breakage, try dipping your fingertips in a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil.

The vitamin C in the lemon juice will help to strengthen your nails, while the olive oil will moisturize your cuticles.

9. Clean Cutting Boards

If you’ve been cutting up raw meat or vegetables on your cutting board, there’s a good chance that it’s harboring bacteria.

To clean and sanitize your cutting board, simply sprinkle some salt onto the surface, and then scrub it with half a lemon. The acid in the lemon will help to kill bacteria and sanitize your cutting board.