If you’re serious about fitness, you’ve likely heard of creatine. This naturally occurring compound in your muscles helps generate quick energy and is one of the most thoroughly studied supplements for building strength, enhancing performance, and supporting muscle growth.
Yet alongside these benefits, a common question arises: could creatine contribute to hair loss?
Read on as we provide a clear, evidence-based perspective: separating myth from fact, reviewing what science actually shows, and offering practical guidance so you can decide whether creatine belongs in your routine, without unnecessary worry about your hair.
Index
What Is Creatine?
Creatine is an organic compound that our bodies naturally produce to supply energy to our cells, especially to energy-hungry muscle cells.
We can also get creatine from our diet, particularly from foods like red meat, fish, and seafood.
Taking creatine supplements increases the amount stored in our muscles, helping them generate more energy during intense workouts.
Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?
The link between creatine and hair loss comes mainly from a small 2009 study on rugby players, which observed a temporary rise in DHT.
DHT can attach to hair follicles and, in individuals who are genetically sensitive, may gradually contribute to thinning or hair loss.
So far, no solid research shows that creatine directly causes hair loss, and any effect on DHT appears to be minor and short-lived.
In reality, hair loss is multifactorial, influenced far more by genetics, stress, illness, and nutrient deficiencies than by creatine use.
Creatine Hair Loss Evidence: What Studies Show
The 2009 Creatine–DHT Study Explained
In the 2009 creatine study, participants completed a short-term creatine loading phase followed by maintenance dosing. Researchers observed roughly a 56% increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels after the loading phase.
DHT is a potent androgen hormone that can contribute to androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness) in individuals who are genetically predisposed.
However, the study had notable limitations:
- It involved a small group of athletes.
- It was conducted over a short duration.
- It measured hormone levels, not actual hair shedding.
No follow-up or large-scale studies have confirmed these findings. It’s also important to remember that higher DHT alone does not guarantee hair loss; genetic sensitivity plays a critical role.
New Research on Creatine and Hair Loss
While the 2009 study suggested a possible hormonal change, subsequent research has not shown consistent effects on DHT, nor any evidence of increased hair shedding.
That said, there are still gaps in the research. Larger, longer-term randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to determine whether creatine has any lasting impact on hormone levels or hair health.
For now, the evidence indicates that creatine’s influence on hormones, and by extension on hair loss risk, is likely minimal to nonexistent.
Does Creatine Monohydrate Cause Hair Loss?
While its performance benefits are well-established, any effects on hair remain unproven, with no clinical data demonstrating a causal link between creatine monohydrate and hair loss.
In fact, creatine monohydrate is the most studied and reliable form for improving strength, power, and muscle growth.
When to See a Dermatologist for Hair Loss
You should consult a dermatologist if you notice red flags, including:
- A widening hair part
- Sudden or rapid shedding
- Scalp symptoms such as itching, redness, or flaking
A dermatologist can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including reviewing your medical history, conducting a physical exam with pull tests to assess shedding, and ordering lab tests to check for nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances.
Based on the findings, they can recommend first-line treatments such as hair supplements or lifestyle and nutritional adjustments. Early evaluation often improves outcomes and helps identify underlying causes beyond genetics.
FAQs
Will I stop losing hair if I stop taking creatine?
There is no solid evidence that creatine causes hair loss, so stopping it is unlikely to affect genetic or other forms of shedding. Monitor your hair over a few months and focus on broader factors such as nutrition, stress, and overall health.
Is creatine good for your hair?
Creatine is well-established for strength, power, and muscle performance, but there is no strong evidence that it directly benefits hair. Hair health is primarily influenced by genetics, nutrition, stress, and scalp care.
What are the negatives of creatine?
Creatine is generally well-tolerated. Possible side effects include mild gastrointestinal upset, water retention, or occasional muscle cramps. People with kidney disease or other medical conditions should consult a doctor before use.
Final Thoughts
So, does taking creatine cause hair loss? Current evidence suggests it likely does not, though more research is needed to fully understand any potential link.
If you’re noticing hair loss, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional to explore all possible factors, from genetics and stress to nutritional deficiencies or underlying medical conditions. Many causes of hair loss are treatable, and early intervention can make a real difference.
If you’re looking to support healthy hair growth, Goldie Locks® Hair Supplements provide key nutrients to help maintain strong, healthy hair as part of a comprehensive hair care routine.