Is Blue Lagoon natural or man made?

Catching a glimpse of the milky-blue water against the black-rock lava fields, it may not come as a complete surprise that the Blue Lagoon is man-made. Runoff water from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant trickles into the lava fields and a blanket of mineral-rich mud lines the foundations of the Blue Lagoon.



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The Iceland Blue Lagoon is not a natural spring. While Iceland is a country brimming with natural hot springs, the Blue Lagoon actually isn't one of them. The land is natural, as is the lava that shapes the pool, but the hot water is actually the result of runoff from the geothermal power plant next door.

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The water is a mix of fresh and seawater and, according to the spa website, the unique algae plants and high concentration of silica directly benefit the skin. They claim the anti-bacterial effects of silica improve psoriasis and eczema and that the mineral water prevents premature aging.

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Water Quality Regular sampling of this natural resource—which is rich in salt, silica, and other minerals—shows that foreign bacteria do not thrive in the lagoon's ecosystem. Thus, disinfectants such as chlorine are not needed. In essence, the lagoon is a self-cleaning ecosystem.

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The water in the Blue Lagoon is heated to around 37-40 degrees Celsius (98-104 F). Due to fluctuations in weather conditions, the precise temperature may change month to month, however you can expect pleasantly warm waters year-round. The sensation is similar to stepping into a hot bath.

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The Reykjanes peninsula is a highly active volcanic area. Hence the Svartsengi geothermal plant where the Blue Lagoon gets it's energy and hot water from, and the hot springs you find in many places in the region. It is important though to understand what highly active means in geological terms.

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Luckily, this isn't like many other geothermal pools in Iceland! There, sulfuric compounds are the main characters, and everything smells like a million rotten eggs. Misunderstand us correctly; some people might feel like the Blue Lagoon doesn't smell like a bundle of roses!

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Do you shower after the Blue Lagoon? Yes, you should shower before and after your stay at the lagoon. Guests are required to shower, without their swimsuit, prior to using the geothermal spa. Simply use the showers and soaps available in the changing rooms.

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The seawater in the Blue Lagoon has high levels of silica. Silica is not harmful to hair. However, if your hair gets wet, it can become stiff and difficult to manage. Therefore, we recommend that you apply conditioner to your hair before entering the lagoon--and leave it in your hair while in the lagoon.

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But is the lagoon's renowned geothermal seawater harmful to your hair? No, it is not harmful. Geothermal seawater contains high concentrations of minerals, such as sulfur, silica, and magnesium. While these are great for your skin, they can leave your hair feeling dry and matted.

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The water in the Blue Lagoon is a super comfortable, warm temperature that you will definitely stay comfortable in. However, because of the cold air temperature, any part of your body that isn't underwater will get chilly at points.

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Despite how snowy and cold it is, you won't freeze your butt off at The Blue Lagoon. We went in January, which is one of the coldest months of the year, and the lagoon was the perfect place to warm up. Remember, the water is almost 40 degrees all year round, so while the air might be cold, the water is not.

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