Very often users and even some physicians advise against the use of Finasteride and Minoxidil in the frontal area by pointing out that these drugs work only in the crown (or cleric) area.
This is incorrect in our opinion. Both drugs also work in the frontal area always and when there is still hair to be saved in that area that has not reached the last stage of miniaturization. Although the mechanisms of action are different both Propecia (finasteride) and Minoxidil act to thicken hair no matter what area of the scalp they are in.
Scientific studies demonstrating efficacy
There are publications demonstrating the efficacy of finasteride in the frontal area after 1 and 2 consecutive years of use (Leyden et. al., JAAD, 1999)
The reason for the confusion on the issue is also related to the fact that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported the efficacy of both drugs only in the crown area in the fact sheet of both Propecia and Rogaine (Minoxidil). This was because Upjohn (the first manufacturer of industrial Minoxidil) and Merck (the pharmaceutical company that launched Propecia) tested the drug only in that area of the scalp during medical trials.
The mechanism of action of DHT
Using logic, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) also causes alopecia in the frontal area, and finasteride acts by blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT, which explains why the drug also acts in the frontal area. One of the side effects of Minoxidil is a growth of hair in the facial area and this would not happen if the drug did not work in the frontal area.
It is unfortunate that many patients and some doctors think that these drugs do not work in the frontal area of the scalp. Very little research has been done to dispel this myth.
Minoxidil and Finasteride act on the frontal
The definite answer, then, is that both drugs work in the frontal area of the scalp either to prevent hair loss or, for example, to thicken a miniaturized hairline.
It is important to remember, however, that neither drug can regrow hair on a totally bald scalp or, for example, allow us to achieve a hairline lower than the one that already exists. It is necessary that hair follicles still exist for the drug to act. It is also important to point out that there are many studies that prove that the best results are obtained with the combined action of finasteride and minoxidil.
