Fractional microneedling radiofrequency provides deep dermal coagulation, thereby inducing collagen synthesis and tissue tightening. The addition of platelet-derived lyophilized growth factors may add to the effect of fractional microneedling radiofrequency.

A new study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology evaluated and compared the efficacy and safety of fractional microneedling radiofrequency alone or combined with lyophilized growth factors in the treatment of striae alba.

This comparative study selected 25 patients suffering from striae alba of the abdomen who received four sessions of fractional microneedling radiofrequency—with lyophilized growth factors (LGF) on one side and with saline (as placebo) on the other side, at four-week intervals. Photographic and biopsy documentation of the progress of the striae alba was carried out before the initiation of the treatment and four weeks after the last session.

The results demonstrated significant improvement in striae alba width after treatment, in both, LGF and placebo sides—the LGF being superior. Patient satisfaction was more on the LGF side. Erythema and hyperpigmentation were less on the LGF side. Histopathologically, both showed improvements with no difference between LGF and placebo, with respect to epidermal thickness, collagen content or elastin content.

Therefore, it was concluded that the combination of fractional microneedling radiofrequency and lyophilized growth factors improves striae alba outcome.

Source: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2020 Apr 23. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13447.