How science is key to the story of Blue Lagoon

From its accidental formation during geothermal energy production to ongoing research at its R&D Center, the Blue Lagoon’s story is rooted in science. Scientists study the lagoon’s geothermal seawater for skincare and medical treatments, including psoriasis. Innovations extend to sustainable practices, such as CO2 recycling and geothermal energy use. Today, the Blue Lagoon combines scientific discovery, health research, and sustainability in a globally-recognized destination for wellbeing.

The scientific origins of the Blue Lagoon

The vital role science plays in the story of the Blue Lagoon cannot be told without mentioning its origin. In the 1970s, the iconic blue water formed as an unintended result of geothermal energy production at the Svartsengi Geothermal Power Station, where the earth’s natural heat was being harnessed for sustainable energy.

When locals began bathing in the warm waters, they noticed their skin felt calmer and healthier. These observations sparked scientific interest, and research later confirmed the water’s unique skin healing properties. This led to the establishment of Blue Lagoon Iceland, founded to study and better understand the bioactive effects of geothermal seawater. In this way, curiosity and observation—two fundamental pillars of science—shaped the birth of the Blue Lagoon. Today, science continues to guide its development as a destination dedicated to health, research, and wellbeing.

Studying geothermal waters: Blue Lagoon’s R&D

The Blue Lagoon was formally established in 1992 by Dr. Grímur Sæmundsen. The company soon opened a dedicated Research and Development Center to study the water’s biological and chemical properties. Early research focused on the composition of the geothermal seawater and how its key components—silica, minerals, and algae—interact with the skin. Over time, the work expanded beyond these initial studies to include advances in biotechnology.

Powered by geothermal energy, the R&D Center continues to serve as a hub for scientific innovation. Researchers there have developed production methods to isolate, cultivate, and harvest the lagoon’s bioactive elements—primarily silica, minerals, and algae—which form the foundation of Blue Lagoon Skin Science skincare products. Research at the center has also supported broader sustainability efforts, including pioneering methods for recycling carbon dioxide.

The Blue Lagoon medical clinic: Treating psoriasis since 1994

With multiple studies confirming the water’s efficacy, The Blue Lagoon Medical Clinic for the treatment of psoriasis was opened in 1994. It continues to operate today. Following multiple studies confirming the healing powers of the lagoon’s mineral-rich geothermal seawater, the clinic opened to offer medical treatments for skin conditions such as psoriasis. Under professional medical supervision, visitors can immerse themselves in the waters, experiencing their skin-rejuvenating properties while following the legacy of the first patients who found relief in the lagoon. The clinic is conveniently located within the Silica Hotel.

The Science behind Blue Lagoon Skincare

In 1995, Blue Lagoon launched its own skincare line, now known as Blue Lagoon Skin Science, to harness the healing powers of geothermal seawater. Its key ingredients, silica, algae, and minerals, form the foundation of the products, celebrated worldwide for their effectiveness. Originally developed to support the treatment of psoriasis, the range has since expanded to promote overall skin health, combining Blue Lagoon's geothermal seawater with cutting-edge skincare research. You can read about Blue Lagoon Skin Science’s history here.

What is Blue Lagoon's geothermal ecocycle?

Blue Lagoon’s operations and sustainable use of energy are guided by what we call the geothermal ecocycle. It is a circular system that makes full use of water, energy, and byproducts from the Svartsengi Resource Park. This system, closely tied to Blue Lagoon’s broader sustainability initiatives, ensures that every resource is put to maximum use.

How does Blue Lagoon's ecocycle function?

Geothermal seawater fills the lagoon and provides the key ingredients for Blue Lagoon Skin Science. Steam generates heat and electricity. Even CO2 is recycled. Using a carbon capture method unique to Blue Lagoon, this greenhouse gas nourishes microalgae grown at the R&D center, which are then incorporated into skincare products. Once energy and nutrients are harvested, the water returns underground, completing the cycle and starting the process all over again.

Science: Guiding the future of the Blue Lagoon

Science has always been at the heart of our story, shaping innovations in geothermal research, skincare, and sustainability. It continues to inspire us and deepen our understanding of the lagoon’s unique waters. These are just a few examples of how science drives our work—and how it will continue to guide our future.