What is the difference between unwaxed lemons and ordinary lemons?

Unwaxed lemons are lemons that have not been coated with a protective wax layer, which is often applied to ordinary lemons to enhance their appearance and extend shelf life. This means unwaxed lemons may have a more natural appearance and potentially a stronger citrus flavor, as the wax can sometimes alter taste. Additionally, unwaxed lemons are preferable for recipes where the zest is used, as there are no chemical residues from wax. However, both types can be used interchangeably in most culinary applications.