Written by OSEA Staff | Last Updated on: January 5, 2026.
When it comes to skincare and our bodies, many of us tend to take an out-of-sight-out-of-mind approach. Our face is generally more visible than the rest of our skin, so the beauty industry tends to focus there. But most of our skin—over 90%—is below the chin. We’re of the mind that it needs (and deserves) just as much attention as your face. That’s why we’ve developed two clinically tested, seaweed-powered body serums for every need and concern. From an overnight firming treatment powered by bio-retinol to an ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid serum for your body, we’ve got you covered from neck to toes. Ahead, discover what sets each body serum apart and exactly when and how to use them for visibly firmer, more hydrated skin. Spoiler alert: the difference is night and day.
What Is a Body Serum
Just like their facial counterparts, body serums are lightweight skincare products designed to deliver high concentrations of active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, bio-retinol, niacinamide and more to the skin. Unlike richer lotions, oils or balms, these featherlight formulas generally absorb in a flash. Body serums can offer numerous benefits, including hydration, improved skin texture, and a firmer, more youthful appearance. They work synergistically with other body care products and provide a more targeted approach to addressing specific skin concerns.
Did you know that your body contains fewer sebaceous glands than your face, and therefore doesn’t hydrate itself as effectively? The skin on the body is also generally thicker and tends to be less sensitive than your face. This means the skin can withstand more potent doses of active ingredients, and explains why it requires special treatment, especially when it comes to hydration and minimizing the visible signs of aging.
How to Use Body Serums
Typically, body serums are applied after cleansing and before using a heavier moisturizer. As a rule of thumb, you should layer the product with the least amount of oil first (typically a serum) and work your way up to the product with the most amount of oil (typically a lotion, body butter, oil, or balm). This allows products with smaller molecules to properly absorb fully into the skin and avoids them being blocked by products with larger molecules (typically oils). Pro tip: Regular exfoliation can enhance the serum's absorption by removing the layer of dead skin cells on the surface.
Who Can Use a Body Serum
Some body serums can irritate skin in the name of overnight results, especially those containing potent active ingredients like retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). Our body serums are formulated for all skin types, but as with any product, if you have sensitive skin, a patch test is recommended.
How to Choose a Body Serum
If you’re considering a body serum, you’ve come to the right place. We have two to choose from. Hyaluronic Body Serum is our ultra-hydrating daily treatment, and Dream Bio-Retinol Body Serum is our overnight firming serum. Each plays a unique role in your routine—the difference is truly night and day.

Hyaluronic Body Serum
When to use it: Use day and night
Best for: Dry or sensitive skin types, or people looking for an everyday lightweight hydrator
How to use it: Use alone or layer under OSEA body moisturizer of choice
Inspired by our bestselling Hyaluronic Sea Serum for face, our Hyaluronic Body Serum delivers all of the hydrating benefits of our facial serum but is formulated specifically for the skin on your body. This lightweight, fast-absorbing serum is clinically shown to instantly boost hydration and improve the skin’s natural moisture barrier for visibly healthy, smooth skin everywhere. It’s an excellent choice for daytime, delivering weightless hydration that layers effortlessly under any body moisturizer. Packed with five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, aloe, vegan peptides and nutrient-dense seaweed, this full-body treatment delivers 24 hours of multi-surface hydration. It’s also dermatologist tested and has been recognized by the National Eczema Association (NEA) with the Seal of Acceptance™.
This Allure Best of Beauty Winner is the perfect option for all skin types, including sensitive skin. The formula glides on like water and absorbs almost instantly, without a sticky, or tacky afterfeel. The result? Soft, smooth, ultra-hydrated skin.

Dream Bio-Retinol Body Serum
When to use it: Nighttime / Bedtime
Best for: Visible signs of stress: loss of firmness, dullness, dryness, and people looking for a soothing ritual before bed
How to use it: Use alone or layer under OSEA body moisturizer of choice
Drift off to your dream skin with our Dream Bio-Retinol Body Serum, our overnight treatment, and the latest member of The Dream Collection family. This dreamy, creamy bedtime treatment, formulated with a holistic blend of algae-derived bio-retinol + red seaweed, visibly firms, smooths the look of lines and wrinkles on the body, hydrates, improves elasticity and boosts radiance—all while you sleep. This isn’t your ordinary bio-retinol product; it’s the first-of-its kind body serum designed to target the visible effects of stress on skin, including lack of firmness, dullness and dryness. And the results don’t stop there. Infused with magnesium to soothe and lavender to promote a sense of serenity for a restful night, this restorative formula is the ultimate wind-down ritual for your whole body.
Dream Bio-Retinol Body Serum uses a proprietary blend of algae-derived bio-retinol plus red seaweed to mimic the firming, line-smoothing effects of retinol with less potential for irritation. It puts skin stress to bed so you can wake up to softer, smoother, more radiant skin.

Wellness While You Sleep
This luxurious overnight serum envelops skin in a soothing and familiar lavender scent–the same you know and love from our Dream Night Cream and Dream Night Serum. The unique milky formula has a creamy yet lightweight texture that absorbs quickly and blankets skin in comforting care. Made with soothing magnesium, it feels incredible as you massage it in. One of the best ways to encourage a restful night’s sleep is with a consistent bedtime routine. Whether yours includes a warm shower, aromatherapy, a sleepy girl mocktail or a cup of chamomile tea, our new body serum is the perfect addition to any wind-down ritual.
How to Build Your Body Serum Routine
As we mentioned above, body serums are meant to be layered on first, followed by your favorite OSEA body moisturizer to lock in moisture. However, for some skin types, the intense hydration of our Hyaluronic Body Serum may be enough for the warmer months. Layering your body serums correctly is key to maximizing results – especially when it comes to serums, which have a lightweight texture. A daily dose of these powerful treatments can take your body care to the next level.
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