Nestled in the serene luxury of Sydney’s Intercontinental Hotel Double Bay, I experienced the exclusive Golki Fusion facial—a treatment designed by the celebrated Australian facialist, April Brodie. Known for her pioneering approach in combining Eastern and Western skincare methodologies, April’s latest creation goes beyond the conventional. Golki Fusion promises not only to lift and sculpt but also to relax and rejuvenate, embodying the meticulous beauty rituals inspired by traditional Korean therapy. For anyone serious about skincare, this premium, waitlisted experience is an unforgettable journey in facial innovation.
After my session, I noticed a striking harmony in my complexion, a glow that persisted for days. As April describes, “Golki Fusion was very much inspired by rising K-Beauty trends and their meticulous dedication to skincare. But I wanted to dig deeper for myself, which meant travelling to Korea and really immersing myself in their beauty culture. This personal research is what truly shaped Golki Fusion.”
A Fusion of Ancient and Modern Skincare Science
Golki Fusion is rooted in the Golgi massage, a unique Korean bone therapy that involves stimulating the bones and fascia to improve circulation and promote youthful skin. Though the technique is only 50 years old, it draws on the heritage of traditional Korean healing. The result is what April describes as “a deep tissue remedial massage for the face.” Far from the gentle, surface-level treatments typical of many facials, Golki Fusion involves intense work on every sinew, bone, and ligament. It is a full 90 minutes of meticulously applied pressure, designed to redefine the facial structure while restoring balance to the skin.
“When I experienced this technique in Korea, I knew it would elevate my practice,” April explains. “Every sinew, every bone, every ligament in your face—from the inside of your nose to the tips, your orbital bone, scalp, forehead, and temples—receives attention.” Each phase of the treatment is choreographed to enhance blood flow, reduce tension, and sculpt the face.
The Phases of Golki Fusion: A Two-Hour Journey to Radiance
April has perfected a choreography within Golki Fusion, starting with a four-part cleanse that primes the skin while beginning to release facial tension. “The cleansing process is like a dance,” she shares, “and each stage has a purpose.” The facial incorporates three phases of massage within the cleansing alone, using different methods and pressure points to activate the skin’s response.
Following the cleanse is the core of the Golki Fusion treatment—a series of massages crafted from April’s years of experience in Eastern and Western techniques. As she describes, “Some of the techniques I developed myself, some are layers of European techniques I’ve been building on, and some are directly from my Korean training.” The treatment culminates in a final gua sha phase, which April calls “that final release,” designed to bring calm and clarity to the skin.
“The Koreans are meticulous about cleansing,” April explains, “and I added my own variation to their four-part cleanse.” From lymphatic drainage techniques to gentle brushwork, each phase is deliberate and effective. “The brush isn’t just for lymphatic drainage; it resets the nervous system before we dive into the massage rounds.”
The Role of Exclusive Ingredients: The S Serum
An integral part of Golki Fusion is the infusion of the S Serum, crafted in Korea by renowned French facialist Sophie Carbonari. April was drawn to the formula’s combination of active ingredients, which include vitamin C, gotu kola, hyaluronic acid, argan oil, cumin oil, vine flower, and wild narcissus. This cocktail of ingredients is designed to elevate skin quality, tone, and resilience. “Partnering with April Brodie for Golki Fusion is a milestone for us,” Sophie Carbonari says. “April’s dedication to holistic, transformative skincare aligns perfectly with the philosophy behind our S Serum.”
April layers this serum with other products from her exclusive range, as well as with the Rationale products she swears by. “The S Serum is made in Korea and is incredible,” she notes. “It brings together elements of both worlds—Eastern skincare principles and advanced Western science.”
Golki Fusion: Sculpting and Defining, Inside and Out
A defining feature of Golki Fusion is its structural impact, targeting the skeletal structure to lift and sculpt the face. “When clients look in the mirror, they often say it feels like the face they used to have,” April shares. By working on bone reabsorption and aligning facial contours, the treatment provides a more defined and lifted appearance.
The technique is more than skin-deep. “The Koreans developed many methods to reshape facial structures,” April observes, “but some of their techniques don’t apply to Western faces. It took a blend of anatomical knowledge, physiology, and hands-on experience to adapt this for my clients.” The facial also takes a holistic approach, with April checking clients’ overall health before proceeding. “I ask about their aches and pains because all of that impacts the face and the way we look,” she says. For April, skincare is an all-encompassing ritual that considers the body, mind, and spirit.
A Harmonious Result
After my own session with April, I felt more than rejuvenated. My skin was luminous, with a newfound definition that seemed to reframe my entire face. “My job is to lift and refresh,” April says with a smile. Golki Fusion is a reminder that true skincare goes beyond the surface, touching on the structural and energetic layers of beauty. For skincare aficionados who seek more than a routine facial, Golki Fusion offers an experience as transformative as it is luxurious—a two-hour immersion that leaves your skin in a state of harmony.
As April herself notes, “It’s a big ask for a client to give you two hours, but when they come away transformed, I know I’ve done my job.”
