saippuaan
Saippuaan is a Finnish word that translates to "soap" in English. It refers to the common cleaning agent used for washing hands, body, and other surfaces. Historically, soap has been made from animal fats or vegetable oils combined with an alkali, such as lye. This chemical reaction, known as saponification, creates the soap molecule which has a hydrophilic (water-attracting) end and a hydrophobic (oil-attracting) end, allowing it to lift dirt and grease from surfaces.
In modern times, saippuaan is produced in various forms, including bar soap, liquid soap, and powdered soap.