Finasteride, from what me and Rob at perfecthairhealth.com see it, stops DHT from causing fibrosis in the blood vessels and scalp.
"
DHT appears to induce a signaling protein called transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB-1). DHT + TGFB-1 is what appears to lead to scar tissue development. "
Finasteride would at least help stop the progression of atherosclerosis/
vasculitis in the blood vessels of the scalp
The problem with finasteride is it removes the 5ar enzyme, thus lowering important brain chemicals and DHT, plus DHT metabolites that play positive roles in your health.
For minoxidil, I've shown that it also reduces the 5AR enzyme and messes with androgen receptors. It also can cause heart issues, lowers collagen production (which reverses/stops fibrosis as well), and for many stops working after a year.
I don't think min is that effective and whether you want its side effects for its effects is up to the user