Bar soap is a cleansing agent made from a combination of fats, oils, and an alkali, usually sodium hydroxide, which is commonly referred to as 'lye'. It functions to remove dirt, sweat, and oils from the skin when used with water, creating a rich lather. Bar soaps have been a staple hygiene product for centuries, with the earliest recorded evidence dating back to 2500 BC in ancient Babylon.
Home users often prefer bar soap due to its cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and longevity compared to liquid soaps. Available in a wide range of scents and formulations tailored to individual skincare needs, bar soaps can be found in most households worldwide, and are favored for personal cleansing, handwashing, and occasionally for cleaning household surfaces.