To the average person, an afternoon spent looking at ultra-high-definition, close-up photos of their skin doesn’t exactly sound like self-care. So, it’s a testament to the team at Hud that they’ve made the process feel both relaxed and rejuvenating. As part of its Cellular Reset Facial, Hud offers an advanced skin analysis, designed to customise and maximise your skincare plan.

The facial package is one of many offered at Hud’s brand new Northcote clinic. Founded by Norwegian skin expert Gry Tømte, the award-winning clinics offer tailored skincare solutions, specialising in advanced treatments with a “no-BS”, science-backed approach. Hud’s new clinic not only offers new state-of-the-art medical devices, it’s also introducing the latest in Larimedical peels from Spain, which have a range of formulas tailored to specific skin goals.

Having never experienced a facial before, I was the perfect candidate at Broadsheet to try the peels and see the dramatic results for myself. I visited the Northcote clinic for a full Cellular Reset package (hard day at work, I know) and was amazed by the both the process and the outcome. If, like me, you’re a facial first-timer, here’s what you can expect.

Upon arrival, your first stop is the light and tranquil reception room. Rather than replicating its sister clinic in St Kilda, Hud wanted to create something special in Northcote, embracing the north-side vibe. The space is a minimalist, Scandi-style oasis, with light timber floors, warm lighting, and earthy walls in shades of beige and burnt orange.

After a warm welcome by a Hud team member, you’ll enjoy a freshly brewed green tea or mineral water. Then, you’ll meet your friendly dermal clinician and head upstairs for your facial scanning. This part of the process feels a bit like a spa retreat crossed with a sci-fi film.

Placing your head inside a black fabric hood, you’ll come face to face with a high-definition camera, surrounded by a bright ring light. The Observ 520x skin analysis technology will then photograph your face from different angles, creating the blueprint for the next step.

Over to the treatment room now. Softly lit and soundtracked by gentle music, the space immediately invites you to unwind. Your dermal clinician will do an in-depth consultation, figuring out the best treatments for you. They’ll talk you through your facial analysis, which shows your skin with various filters to highlight texture, pigmentation, UV effects and more.

While I’ve always been a bit of a skincare fanatic, religiously applying my 50 SPF+ and vitamin C during the day and serums and retinol at night, this process definitely took things to a new level. Despite my best efforts at home, my dermal clinician was able to identify that my skin would benefit from improved oil control and increased water levels, which she was able to show me up close on-screen.

With the analysis done, it’s time to lie back on the treatment bed and let the expert get to work. First, you’ll enjoy a deep, relaxing cleanse. Next come the Larimedical peels, customised to target your skin concerns. Because these peels leave your skin barrier intact, there’s no downtime necessary afterwards.

Following the peel, a hydrating sheet mask is applied, paired with the option of a head massage (which I would absolutely recommend). To finish, there’s 15 minutes of Healite LED therapy, which almost feels like lying on the beach on a sunny afternoon. After your treatment’s complete, you’ll head home with a small ampoule of post-peel serum, which you’ll apply for the next three nights.

Back in the office a few days later, my co-worker remarks that I have a glow about me. I’ve noticed my face is certainly looking brighter, feeling smoother, and I’m experiencing less blemishes and irritation. For optimal results, regular visits are recommended every four to six weeks, and I’m already thinking about my second facial.

To celebrate the opening of Hud’s new clinic, we’re giving away a Cellular Reset Facial package to five lucky Access members. For your chance to enter, join today.