Blue Lagoon Skin Science: A brief history

The origins of Blue Lagoon Skin Science

The story of Blue Lagoon Skin Science begins 2,000 meters within the earth. In this realm of searing heat and immense pressure, freshwater and seawater converge, giving birth to mineral-rich geothermal seawater. It was this unique water that came forth from the volcanic aquifers discovered beneath the Svartsengi lava plain in Iceland in the 1970’s.

How the Blue Lagoon was formed

The engineers at the Svartsengi geothermal resource park expected the silky blue water to sink through the porous lava and return underground where it would re-enter the renewable energy cycle. But because of the water’s high silica content, proper drainage did not occur and a serene body of water took shape.

Inspiring effective skincare

By the late 1970s, the iconically blue waters had become a source of curiosity for residents of the Reykjanes Peninsula. People came to relax, enjoy the waters, and seek relief from skin conditions. Many noticed that their skin felt softer, calmer, and more refreshed after bathing. No matter the reason for their visit, the lagoon was an irresistible force.

The first visitors to the Blue Lagoon

The precise individual who first stepped into the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon is not known. But whoever it was, an era had begun. Because all who entered the water emerged with sensations of peace, wellbeing, and wonder. Word of the water’s healing and revitalizing abilities quickly spread, and the site—soon nicknamed the Blue Lagoon— became one of Iceland’s most celebrated geothermal bathing destinations.

A vision for wellbeing

It was in 1987 that a doctor from Reykjavík, Grímur Sæmundsen, began to envision a more formalized future for the enchanting lagoon. He imagined a place of health and wellbeing powered by the natural benefits of geothermal seawater. A spa where the combination of science and nature could unlock new dimensions of skin radiance and rejuvenation.

Where science meets nature: skincare breakthroughs

In 1992, Dr. Sæmundsen formed Blue Lagoon Limited with the intention of turning his dream into a reality. The company soon opened an R&D center and the lagoon’s remarkable powers became the focus of intense scientific research. With multiple studies confirming the water’s efficacy, a clinic for the treatment of psoriasis was opened. Under medical supervision, visitors could immerse themselves in the mineral-rich waters, experiencing their transformative abilities while continuing the legacy of the first patients who found relief in the lagoon.

The launch of a skincare line

In 1995, Blue Lagoon launched its first skincare products. Conceived by scientist Ása Brynjólfsdóttir, the product line was created to harness the extraordinary abilities of geothermal seawater: silica, algae, and minerals. These natural elements form the foundation of Blue Lagoon skincare and are renowned worldwide for their purity, effectiveness, and bioactive properties. Today, the skincare range is known as Blue Lagoon Skin Science, continuing to combine Icelandic geothermal water with cutting-edge skincare research.

Patented bioactives

At the heart of Blue Lagoon Skin Science are the BL+ Patented Bioactives; proprietary ingredients born from the mineral-rich geothermal seawater of the Blue Lagoon. Developed and refined through more than three decades of scientific research, these patented bioactives combine the power of nature and innovation to create truly unique and effective skincare formulas.

The BL+ bioactives include three key ingredients, each with specific skin benefits:

Silica: Helps skin retain moisture by supporting the skin's natural barrier function.

Algae: Nourishes and renews. Has been shown to support collagen levels and provide antioxidant protection.

Minerals: Hydrate, soothe, and help support skin. Strengthen the skin barrier.

Early products and benefits

Some of the first products—Silica Mud Mask and Bath Salt—were created for the treatment of psoriasis. Over time, however, the line expanded beyond treatment products to address a range of skin concerns: cleansing, exfoliation, hydration, moisturization, rejuvenation, renewal, radiance, nourishment, strength, and protection.

Sustainability in skincare production

Throughout the evolution of Blue Lagoon Skin Science, sustainability has remained a core value. Green production methods, pioneered at the R&D facility, are used for isolating, cultivating, and harvesting the trinity of beneficial properties intrinsic to Blue Lagoon water. At heart, Blue Lagoon Skin Science embodies the harmonic convergence of nature, science, and sustainability. Born from the geothermal seawater of the Blue Lagoon and refined through decades of research, it remains a timeless gift of Iceland, offering health, beauty, and wellness to all who experience it.

Click here to discover the full benefits of Blue Lagoon Skin Science and explore the complete collection.