Anyways, getting back on topic...
Especially for a human, who can't start with a strength score of 16, wringing as much damage as possible out of those fists is extremely important. Strength, you can easily boost later to hit your augmented max. Bone lacing is a more permanent measure, much more difficult to build upon, and once you have it, you're cut off from the more potent option.
Bone lacing goes up to rating 3. Bone density goes up to 4, and costs less essence. Yes, even alpha grade bone density 4 will cost you more than one essence, but that +4P to your unarmed attacks is irreplaceable. Add in either two or four striking calluses (either each hand, or each hand and each foot, depending on how Runner Hub rules), and it's worth the two lost points of magic, easily, since when you add in Critical Strike, you're doing STR+7P damage. If you're genetically optimized with exceptional attribute: strength and at your augmented maximum for 12 strength, you'd hit your limit at 19P baseline damage for a punch.
At normal grade, bone density 4 (restricted gear), plus four striking calluses, plus genetic optimization would run you 1.9 essence. Worth it.
