What causes Blue Lagoon hair?

The Blue Lagoon’s unique composition, rich in minerals like silica, sulfur, and algae, can have adverse effects on hair. These minerals strip away the natural oils and proteins, leading to dryness, brittleness, and a greenish tinge. However, with a little preparation and care, you can avoid or alleviate these issues.

How to fix Blue Lagoon hair: Steps for protecting your hair before you enter the lagoon

1. Pre-lagoon rinse: Before entering the Blue Lagoon, thoroughly rinse your hair with clean, lukewarm water. This helps to saturate the hair, reducing its ability to absorb the minerals present in the lagoon. You’re required to shower before entering the blue lagoon anyway

2. Oil your hair or work in a leave in conditioner: Apply hair oil, hair serum, or leave-in conditioner after you shower and before you enter the Blue Lagoon. This creates a protective barrier between your hair and the minerals, minimizing their impact. Choose products with nourishing ingredients like argan oil or jojoba oil. I used this fantastic leave-in conditioner from Redken to great effect! By putting it in your wet hair before you enter the water, it fills your hair follicles and helps keep out the minerals.

3. Put your hair in a bun or a braid: Keeping your hair securely tied or braided can reduce its exposure to the water, preventing excessive absorption of minerals. It also makes Blue lagoon hair easier to manage when you exit the water, preventing knotting and the classic ocean “rats nest.”

How to fix Blue Lagoon hair: Steps for protecting your hair after you exit the lagoon

1. Post-Lagoon rinse: Immediately after leaving the lagoon, rinse your hair again with lukewarm water. This helps to remove mineral residue and restore the pH balance of your hair. Avoid using hot water, as it can further strip away natural oils.

2. Use a clarifying shampoo: Use a clarifying shampoo once you’re back at your accommodation to remove any remaining mineral buildup. These shampoos are formulated to deeply cleanse the hair and scalp, eliminating impurities and restoring balance. Look for clarifying shampoos with gentle but effective ingredients like tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar.

3. Apply a deep conditioning treatment: Treat your hair to a deep conditioning mask or treatment post-lagoon. These products are specifically designed to replenish moisture, repair damage, and restore the hair’s natural shine and softness. Opt for products with ingredients like keratin, coconut oil, or hyaluronic acid.

4. For color, use a neutralizing hair mask: To combat the greenish tinge that may occur due to the minerals (for all the blondes out there), consider using a neutralizing hair mask. These masks help to counteract the unwanted color and restore your hair’s natural shade. Look for products with violet or purple pigments, as they neutralize brassiness and give your hair a more vibrant appearance.

Other things to know before you go and tips for the Blue Lagoon

• You need a reservation for the Blue Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon is popular for good reason, so it’s next to impossible to secure your preferred date and time without pre-booking. Explore packages and book tickets here! Don’t wait to book because they book up QUICK.

• Pack the essentials: a towel (though you can pay to rent one if needed), a bathing suit, flip-flops, hair care products (yes, they provide a couple of complimentary products there, but they’re not anywhere near enough for preventing Blue Lagoon hair), and a waterproof phone case.

• Showering is mandatory before you enter the Blue Lagoon. To maintain the cleanliness of the lagoon, visitors are required to shower thoroughly before entering the water. Be prepared for communal showering areas and remember that it’s a common practice in Iceland. Embrace the local customs and enjoy the refreshing start to your Blue Lagoon experience.

• Try the included silica mud mask! The Blue Lagoon is famous for its silica mud mask, which is included with your admission ticket. Apply the mask liberally to your face and body– believed to have skin-rejuvenating properties, leaving you feeling refreshed and glowing after your soak.

• It’s tough to avoid crowds. If you prefer a less crowded experience, consider visiting the Blue Lagoon either early in the morning or late in the evening, or opt for one of the more expensive premium packages, which gives you access to exclusive areas of the lagoon.

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