Why is the water in the Blue Lagoon so blue?

The Blue Lagoon is blue because of the way silica—the lagoon's iconic and most abundant element—reflects visible light when suspended in water. All matter reflects visible light. Depending on the molecular structure of a given entity, it reflects a specific color of visible light.



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Blue Lagoon – History It is not a natural hot spring – in fact, the water within is wastewater from the power plant! While at first glance this may put you off, it should be noted that the water in the Blue Lagoon is completely safe and contains only natural minerals.

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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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Can I swim laps in the Blue Lagoon and do I need goggles? The Blue Lagoon is designed for relaxed bathing. Its warm, milky waters are not suitable for vigorous exercise. Likewise, diving is not allowed anywhere.

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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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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 Blue Lagoon water has high levels of silica. Silica is not harmful to hair. However, if you get your hair wet from the water, it can become stiff and difficult to manage. We highly recommend you apply conditioner to your hair and leave it in while you bathe.

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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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How is the Blue Lagoon Heated? Geothermal energy. Underground lava flows and natural hot springs heat the lagoon's mix of sea and freshwater. The water is drawn up through geothermal extraction wells from 2-kilometres beneath the Earth's surface.

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The Blue Lagoon was named because the water of the lagoon looks blue when reflected from the sun but in actuality, the water is a milky white color. And don't worry about the smell, the sulfur has been removed so there is no funky smell at all anymore.

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As a geothermal power plant there are no health concerns from bathing in the discharge of the thermal aquifers. In fact, the spa promotes the therapeutic and healing qualities of the brine. What few people discuss are the other effects of the salty mineral water on clothes and hair.

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Likewise, you can purchase a swimsuit in the shop at Blue Lagoon. Is there a maximum time allowed in that water? You may spend as much time as you wish enjoying the water. Your entry ticket is valid for the entire day.

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The Blue Lagoon does not allow any skinny dipping. You will have to bring along your swimsuit in order to enter both the water and the saunas. However, there aren't any rules about the type of swimsuit you can bring.

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You are welcome to bring your own towel, robe or slippers. However, towels are included in all packages, so there is no need to bring it with you.

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Flip-flops, slippers and water shoes are allowed around the lagoon's edge and although flip-flops are not provided as standard, the shop does sell them if you forget to pack a pair. Slippers are included with the premium package.

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There are instructions on the locker door as well. It is recommended that you leave all your jewelry and watches in the locker and the water might cause some damage to them. After having fun with the locker, you will need to shower before going into the lagoon. It is compulsory to shower and wash with soap.

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