When in Milan, do as Dua Lipa does: drink wine with friends, admire her great taste in interior design, eat plate after plate of pasta, and visit her favorite facialist for a face-sculpting treatment.

Based in the charming Navigli district of downtown Milan, Alessandra Ricchizzi is one of Europe’s most in-demand beauty facialists. (Her other clients include Italian pop stars, models, and Chiara Ferragni.) Dua Lipa first visited her in 2023, when she tried Ricchizzi’s signature “Manual Lifting” treatment. Developed by Ricchizzi, this facial works the internal and external facial muscles to create a lifted, sculpted look—completely noninvasive.

“My philosophy is based on the idea that the face isn’t just about looks, but also reflects inner balance,” Ricchizzi tells Vogue. The facial is customized for each person; Ricchizzi starts by studying a client’s facial expressions, posture, and “facial memory” (which she describes as everything from fine lines to texture that develops as we age).

“There are three facial axes through which memory passes: first, 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, the oblique axis,” she explains. “The final result is a lifting and repositioning effect of 0 to 6 cm [about 2.3 inches].”

Describing her style as “profound yet delicate,” Ricchizzi is a strong advocate for natural, non-invasive skincare. “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. That’s how my ‘AR Lifting’ method was born.”

Dua Lipa receives Alessandra Ricchizzi’s Manual Lifting massage in 2023.
Photo: Courtesy of Alessandra Ricchizzi

What does the treatment look like? It starts with a series of manual sculpting and lifting movements that define the face’s contours and release tension (great if you have TMJ or tend to clench your jaw), using a “lifting glove.” Just like you’ll see on Lipa, this glove has red LED fingertips that promote an “anti-gravity” effect, stimulating facial tissue and muscles. At the same time, it works products deep into the skin for a luminous, hydrated, plumped, and toned look. Lipa also enjoyed the treatment on the rest of her body for a snatched effect, similar to a lymphatic drainage massage.

Other benefits? You’ll notice less puffiness and bloating right away, and over time, reduced inflammation, better circulation, improved digestion, and more 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 under-eye bags and jowls. “Even a few minutes a day can make a difference,” Ricchizzi says. “I recommend always starting with well-cleansed skin, especially in the evening. Work from the bottom up with medium-pressure movements, divide the face in two, and release pressure toward the ear.” She suggests keeping movements simple, like short, sharp upward motions along the cheeks and neck to lightly drain pressure and lift, as well as small pinches along the same areas to boost circulation. “Consistency is key: a little each day is better than intensive but sporadic treatments.”

Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs based on the topic Dua Lipas favorite facialist shares her beauty secrets written in a natural conversational tone with clear answers

BeginnerLevel Questions

1 Who is Dua Lipas favorite facialist
Answer Her name is Sofia Tess Shes a celebrity facialist based in New York and London known for her holistic noninvasive approach to skincare

2 What is the main beauty secret Sofia Tess swears by
Answer Consistency and lymphatic drainage She believes that moving fluid and reducing puffiness in the face is more important than using a dozen expensive products

3 Does Dua Lipa get any special celebrity treatments
Answer Not really Sofia focuses on simple manual techniques Duas routine is built around gua sha facial massage and keeping the skin barrier healthyno lasers or harsh peels

4 What is lymphatic drainage and why does it matter
Answer Its a gentle massage technique that helps your body flush out excess fluid and toxins It reduces puffiness defines your jawline and gives your skin a glow without any needles

5 Is this routine expensive to follow at home
Answer No Sofias core advice is affordable You mainly need a gua sha tool or your own hands a good facial oil and 5 minutes a day

Advanced Practical Questions

6 What specific facial massage technique does Sofia Tess recommend
Answer She recommends a 3step manual routine 1 Sculpting strokes 2 Pinching the brows and 3 Draining the neck

7 Does Sofia Tess use a specific skincare product line
Answer She is the founder of her own line called Sister Seek However she often says you dont need her products She prefers simple hydrating formulas with ingredients like squalane ceramides and glycerin