Photo: Courtesy of Alessandra Ricchizzi
When in Milan, do as Dua Lipa does: Drink vino with friends, see good interior design, eat piatto after piatto of pasta, and visit her favorite face-sculpting facialist.
Based in the charming Navigli district of downtown Milan, Alessandra Ricchizzi is one of Europe’s most sought-after beauty facialists. (She counts Italian pop stars, models, and Chiara Ferragni among her clients.) The first time Lipa visited was in 2023, where she underwent Ricchizzi’s signature Manual Lifting treatment. Developed by Ricchizzi, the facial stimulates the internal and external facial muscles to create a lifted and sculpted effect that’s completely noninvasive.
“My philosophy is based on the idea that the face is not just about aesthetics, but an expression of internal balance,” Ricchizzi tells Vogue. The facial is bespoke for each individual face; Ricchizzi first studies a client’s facial expressions and posture and their “facial memory” (which she defines as everything from fine lines to texture that develops as we age).
“There are three facial axes through which memory passes: the first is the central, vertical axis, which I work on during the first appointment; then, during the second or third appointment, I work on the horizontal axis, and finally, on the oblique axis,” she explains. “The final result is a lifting and repositioning effect of 0 to 6 centimeters [about 2.3 inches].”
Ricchizzi describes her style as “profound yet delicate,” and she is an advocate for natural, noninvasive skin care. “I started massaging dolls at age eight and haven’t stopped since,” she says. “After years of training in advanced aesthetics and manual techniques, I felt the need to develop a more personal approach, combining effectiveness with a deep understanding of the face. Thus was born my AR Lifting method.”
What does that look like? The facial begins with a series of manual sculpting and lifting movements that define the face contours and release tension (super nice if you suffer from TMJ or routinely clench your jaw) using a “lifting glove.” Just like you see being used on Lipa, it’s a glove consisting of red LED fingertips that promote “antigravity” action, stimulating the facial tissue and muscles. At the same time, it deeply works in products to promote luminous, hydrated, plumped, and toned skin. Lipa also enjoyed the treatment on the rest of her body for a snatched effect, which mimics the same effects of a lymphatic drainage massage.
Other benefits? Immediately, less puffiness and bloating, and later, reduced inflammation, improved circulation, better digestion, and boosted energy.
Can’t make it to Milan (or Switzerland) to see Alessandra Ricchizzi? Facial massage—from gua sha to lymphatic drainage—is an easy and accessible way to address everything from nasolabial folds to undereye bags and jowls. “Even a few minutes a day can make a difference,” affirms Ricchizzi. “I recommend always starting with well-cleansed skin, especially in the evening. Always work from the bottom up with medium-pressure movements, divide the face in two, and release pressure toward the ear.” She advises keeping movements simple, like short and sharp upward motions along the cheeks and neck that lightly drain pressure and lift, as well as small pinches along the same areas to encourage circulation: “Consistency is key; a little each day is better than intensive but sporadic treatments.”
This article was originally published on Vogue.com.
