Swimming in the Blue Lagoon

Previously, I wrote an article ranking my favorite types of water to swim in. Coming in at the top of the list was saltwater because of the therapeutic effects it has on my skin. I’ve decided to take that topic a step further and share one of the best experiences I’ve had as an eczema patient. While traveling abroad, I had the great fortune of swimming in one of the most well known geothermal pools in the world: the Blue Lagoon in Grindavik, Iceland.

Skepticism at its finest

Going into the experience I was a little skeptical. As a life-long eczema patient, I’ve heard time and time again how certain products, procedures, or environments can be a game-changer for my skin. More often than not I’ve been severely let down by these claims. Nonetheless, I was on vacation and decided that if anything, the Blue Lagoon would be an awesome adventure. Little did I know that it would be one of my favorite portions of the trip.

Coming to terms

Before I was allowed to get in the water I had to take a shower in a changing room. Like most people, I didn’t want to get in a pool with others if they weren’t clean so this wasn’t a big deal. Upon completion, I grabbed my things and walked outside. I was a little surprised when I took my first step into the water, as it was around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. After several minutes I took a moment to soak in my surroundings. The most eye-catching portion of the lagoon was the opaque blue-green water that I was basking in. Just beyond the steam emanating from the water was a field of beautiful volcanic rock. There were also several bars where visitors could grab a drink of their choice.

Slathering on the silica

According to Encyclopedia Britannica, Silica consists of silicon and oxygen. Both of which are extremely plentiful within the Earth’s crust.¹ For all of us non-scientists out there, I’d describe it as a gritty white paste. While floating in the water, I noticed that many of the patrons at the Blue Lagoon had this silica on their body. I decided to put some on as well. When in Rome… or Iceland! The results were astounding. When I washed it off, my skin was the softest and smoothest that it had ever been. Even the toughest and driest portions of my skin felt great to the touch. To my surprise, this effect lasted for an additional day after I had left the lagoon.

Two thumbs...way up

If I had to rate my experience I’d give it two thumbs up. It’s not the cheapest way to nurture and replenish your skin but it’s well worth it. The relaxation and noticeable skin improvements I experienced had me feeling like a “normal” person… at least for a portion of time. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Iceland I highly recommend taking a dip in the Blue Lagoon.