Biodermogenesi for Striae Distensae: A Combined Clinical and Histopathological Assessment

Author(s): Batista Castro Zenia, Benitez Roig Virginia, Broekhuizen Benitez Javier, Reig Monzón María Inés, Busoni Maurizio

Background and objectives: Striae distensae (SD), particularly their atrophic form striae albae (SA), remains therapeutically challenging. Biodermogenesi is a non-invasive technology combining electromagnetic fields, vacuum, and electrical stimulation (also called V-EMF therapy). We evaluated its clinical and histological effects in chronic SA.

Study design/materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective open-label study in 20 adults with long-standing SA (≥10 years) and Fitzpatrick phototypes III–IV. All patients received 10 sessions of Biodermogenesi (V-EMF therapy) with the Bi-One® LifeTouchTherapy device. Clinical outcomes were assessed via standardized photography, the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), and patient Likert satisfaction. Digital morphometry (thickness, length, area) was performed using Fiji/ImageJ. In 6 patients, skin punch biopsies were obtained before treatment and 30 days after the final session. Histology included morphometric and semiquantitative assessments of the epidermis, dermal–epidermal junction (DEJ), collagen, vascularity, and fibrosis.

Results: All patients showed visible improvement, including smoother texture and reduced lesion size. Clinical morphometry demonstrated mean reductions of 27% in striae thickness and 34% in area. Histology revealed increased epidermal thickness with reappearance of rete ridges, denser collagen, and enhanced vascularity. Although morphometric changes did not reach statistical significance, semiquantitative analysis supported tissue remodeling. No adverse events occurred. Patient satisfaction correlated with physician GAIS (p=0.037).

Conclusion: Biodermogenesi achieved clinical and histological improvement in chronic SA, including in darker phototypes (III–IV). The therapy appears safe and effective, supporting further randomized studies with longer follow-up.