Microneedling for the Treatment of Striae Alba: An Evidence-
Based Case Report
Case Study: Microneedling for Striae Alba
Grade: 8 / Evidence-Based Practice (EBP Focus)
Abstract
Striae alba are mature dermal scars that present a therapeutic challenge due to
reduced vascularity and collagen disorganization. Microneedling has emerged as a
minimally invasive intervention aimed at stimulating dermal remodeling through
controlled micro-injury. This case report evaluates the effectiveness and safety of
microneedling for striae alba using an evidence-based practice (EBP) framework.
Clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and current scientific evidence are
reviewed. The findings suggest that microneedling is a safe and moderately
effective treatment option for improving the appearance of striae alba,
particularly when applied in multiple sessions and guided by patient-centered care
principles.
1. Introduction
Striae distensae, commonly referred to as stretch marks, are linear dermal scars
that occur following rapid skin stretching due to pregnancy, puberty, weight
changes, or hormonal influences. They are classified into striae rubrae (early,
erythematous lesions) and striae alba (mature, hypopigmented, atrophic scars).
Striae alba are characterized by epidermal thinning, loss of dermal collagen and
elastin, and reduced vascularity, making treatment outcomes less predictable and
often limited.
, Various therapeutic approaches have been proposed, including topical agents,
laser therapy, radiofrequency, and chemical peels. However, these modalities may
be costly, invasive, or associated with prolonged downtime. Microneedling has
gained attention as a cost-effective and minimally invasive alternative that
promotes collagen induction through controlled mechanical stimulation. This case
report explores microneedling for striae alba within an evidence-based practice
framework relevant to skin and laser therapy education.
2. Case Description
2.1 Patient Characteristics
The patient presented with bilateral striae alba located on the lateral thighs. The
striae had been present for several years and were described as hypopigmented,
atrophic, and asymptomatic. No active dermatological conditions or
contraindications to microneedling were reported. The patient’s primary
treatment goal was cosmetic improvement in texture and visibility.
2.2 Intervention
Microneedling treatment was performed using a medical-grade microneedling
device. Treatment parameters were selected according to current clinical
guidelines for scar remodeling. Multiple treatment sessions were administered at
regular intervals to allow sufficient dermal healing and collagen synthesis between
sessions. Standard pre- and post-treatment protocols were followed to minimize
adverse effects.
2.3 Outcome Measures
Clinical outcomes were assessed using:
• Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for perceived improvement
• Patient satisfaction scores
• Visual inspection of skin texture and striae depth
Follow-up assessments were conducted after completion of the treatment series.
Based Case Report
Case Study: Microneedling for Striae Alba
Grade: 8 / Evidence-Based Practice (EBP Focus)
Abstract
Striae alba are mature dermal scars that present a therapeutic challenge due to
reduced vascularity and collagen disorganization. Microneedling has emerged as a
minimally invasive intervention aimed at stimulating dermal remodeling through
controlled micro-injury. This case report evaluates the effectiveness and safety of
microneedling for striae alba using an evidence-based practice (EBP) framework.
Clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and current scientific evidence are
reviewed. The findings suggest that microneedling is a safe and moderately
effective treatment option for improving the appearance of striae alba,
particularly when applied in multiple sessions and guided by patient-centered care
principles.
1. Introduction
Striae distensae, commonly referred to as stretch marks, are linear dermal scars
that occur following rapid skin stretching due to pregnancy, puberty, weight
changes, or hormonal influences. They are classified into striae rubrae (early,
erythematous lesions) and striae alba (mature, hypopigmented, atrophic scars).
Striae alba are characterized by epidermal thinning, loss of dermal collagen and
elastin, and reduced vascularity, making treatment outcomes less predictable and
often limited.
, Various therapeutic approaches have been proposed, including topical agents,
laser therapy, radiofrequency, and chemical peels. However, these modalities may
be costly, invasive, or associated with prolonged downtime. Microneedling has
gained attention as a cost-effective and minimally invasive alternative that
promotes collagen induction through controlled mechanical stimulation. This case
report explores microneedling for striae alba within an evidence-based practice
framework relevant to skin and laser therapy education.
2. Case Description
2.1 Patient Characteristics
The patient presented with bilateral striae alba located on the lateral thighs. The
striae had been present for several years and were described as hypopigmented,
atrophic, and asymptomatic. No active dermatological conditions or
contraindications to microneedling were reported. The patient’s primary
treatment goal was cosmetic improvement in texture and visibility.
2.2 Intervention
Microneedling treatment was performed using a medical-grade microneedling
device. Treatment parameters were selected according to current clinical
guidelines for scar remodeling. Multiple treatment sessions were administered at
regular intervals to allow sufficient dermal healing and collagen synthesis between
sessions. Standard pre- and post-treatment protocols were followed to minimize
adverse effects.
2.3 Outcome Measures
Clinical outcomes were assessed using:
• Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for perceived improvement
• Patient satisfaction scores
• Visual inspection of skin texture and striae depth
Follow-up assessments were conducted after completion of the treatment series.
