Creatine is one of the most popular supplements among athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts. It’s widely used to improve strength, muscle mass, and workout performance. However, a lingering concern keeps surfacing in forums, locker rooms, and even clinical conversations: does creatine cause hair loss?

This article explores the link between creatine and hair loss, including what the science says, what’s still unclear, and how it may (or may not) affect your hairline. If you’re worried about creatine supplementation and hair thinning, here’s what you need to know—without the fluff.

Quick Insights

• No solid evidence proves creatine causes hair loss, despite a 2009 study showing increased DHT levels.

• DHT is linked to male pattern baldness, but creatine’s effect on long-term DHT remains unclear.

• Hair loss from creatine is not confirmed or permanent, especially without genetic predisposition.

• Other factors like genetics, stress, and training intensity may play a bigger role in hair thinning.

• Creatine supplements are generally safe and effective for fitness, with minimal impact on hair health.

What Is Creatine and How Does It Work?

Before jumping to conclusions, it’s essential to understand what creatine supplements actually do. Creatine is a compound found naturally in the body, primarily stored in muscles. It plays a critical role in producing energy during high-intensity workouts.

Key Points:

• Creatine helps regenerate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), your body’s energy currency.

• Supplementation increases muscle strength, endurance, and recovery.

• Found in red meat, fish, and produced naturally by the liver and kidneys.

There is no doubt that creatine supplementation works for physical performance. But does it mess with your hormones—and ultimately, your hair?

The 2009 Study That Sparked the Concern

The link between creatine and hair loss mostly traces back to a 2009 study conducted on a group of rugby players. Researchers observed a significant increase in DHT (dihydrotestosterone) levels after 21 days of creatine use.

Study Highlights:

• Participants took a 25g loading dose for 7 days, followed by 5g daily for 14 days.

• Results showed a 40% increase in DHT, a hormone linked to male pattern baldness.

• However, no participants actually experienced hair loss during the study.

This study is frequently cited, yet it has major limitations:

• Small sample size (only 20 participants)

• No long-term follow-up

• DHT levels were observed, but no direct link to actual hair loss

So while the creatine hair loss study raised important questions, it didn’t provide definitive answers.

What Is DHT and Why Does It Matter for Hair Loss?

To understand the potential link, we need to talk about dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It’s a potent androgen derived from testosterone, and it plays a key role in triggering male pattern baldness in genetically predisposed individuals.

DHT’s Impact on Hair:

• Shrinks hair follicles over time

• Shortens the hair growth cycle

• Leads to thinning, receding hairlines, and eventual baldness

If creatine effects on DHT levels are real and sustained, that could theoretically impact those sensitive to DHT—but that’s still up for debate.

Does Creatine Actually Increase DHT Long-Term?

Current evidence is limited. Aside from the 2009 study, there is little scientific data supporting a long-term rise in DHT due to creatine supplementation.

What We Know:

• No conclusive studies show consistent increases in DHT from creatine across large populations.

• Most research finds creatine safe with no reported link to hair loss.

• Anecdotal claims about creatine and hair loss remain common but unverified.

The jump from “creatine raises DHT” to “does creatine cause hair loss?” isn’t proven—especially for people without a family history of baldness.

Is Hair Loss from Creatine Permanent?

There’s no clinical evidence that hair loss from creatine is permanent—or that creatine directly causes it at all.

Things to Consider:

• If you’re genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness, DHT may already be affecting your hair regardless of supplements.

• Stopping creatine won’t reverse genetic baldness, but may ease concerns if you believe it’s accelerating loss.

• Hair shedding could be linked to training intensity, stress, or other supplements—not just creatine.

Still, if you’re noticing unusual hair thinning after starting creatine, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.

Other Common Side Effects of Creatine Supplements

Although creatine supplements are widely regarded as safe, some users may experience side effects unrelated to hair loss.

Common Side Effects:

• Water retention

• Digestive discomfort

• Muscle cramping (rare)

• Increased body weight due to water in muscle tissue

None of these have a proven connection to hair follicles or hormone imbalances.

FAQs

What does creatine do to your hormones?

Creatine may slightly influence hormone levels like testosterone or DHT in some individuals, but current research doesn’t show a significant or lasting hormonal disruption. Most studies confirm that creatine is safe and well-tolerated with no direct hormonal side effects in healthy individuals.

How can I tell if creatine is causing my hair loss?

If you’ve recently started creatine and noticed hair shedding, track timing, dosage, and other changes like stress, diet, or sleep. Consult a dermatologist to rule out underlying causes. No clinical tool currently exists to confirm creatine as the direct cause of hair loss.

Why do people associate creatine with hair thinning?

The link mainly stems from a 2009 study that showed increased DHT levels after creatine use. Since DHT is linked to male pattern baldness, people assume creatine may trigger hair thinning. However, no study has directly shown that creatine causes hair loss.

Who should avoid creatine if concerned about hair loss?

Those with a strong family history of androgenetic alopecia or who are already experiencing pattern baldness might consider avoiding creatine if concerned. While not proven to cause hair loss, cautious use or professional guidance may be helpful in high-risk individuals.

How does creatine differ from anabolic steroids in affecting hair?

Unlike anabolic steroids, creatine is not a hormone or hormone booster. It doesn’t mimic or disrupt endocrine functions the way steroids do. While steroids directly raise testosterone and DHT levels, creatine’s impact—if any—is minimal and indirect.

What’s the safest way to take creatine with hair concerns?

Stick to a maintenance dose (3-5g daily), avoid high-dose loading phases, and monitor your hair condition over time. Pair creatine use with a balanced lifestyle and proper scalp care to minimize any perceived risks.

Will stopping creatine reverse any potential hair loss?

If creatine contributed to hair thinning (which is unconfirmed), stopping it may stabilize hair fall. However, if the hair loss is due to genetics or other factors, discontinuing creatine likely won’t reverse it. Hair regrowth depends on the root cause.

Where can I find more studies on creatine and hair loss?

You can search peer-reviewed medical databases like PubMed or visit trusted health platforms like Cleveland Clinic, Healthline, or NIH.gov. Currently, there’s limited research, and only one study directly explores creatine’s effect on DHT and hair health.

What other supplements might impact hair loss?

Some supplements like DHEA, testosterone boosters, or high doses of vitamin A may trigger hair shedding. Always research and consult with a medical professional before combining performance supplements if you’re prone to hair loss.

How does DHT specifically affect hair follicles?

DHT binds to receptors in hair follicles, causing them to shrink and produce thinner hairs over time. In genetically predisposed individuals, this leads to male pattern baldness. Blocking DHT can slow or prevent this process, but it must be done carefully.

Conclusion: Should You Worry About Creatine and Hair Loss?

At this point, the concern that creatine causes hair loss isn’t backed by strong evidence. The infamous creatine hair loss study only suggests a possible short-term spike in DHT—and even that hasn’t been replicated or tied directly to balding.

If you’re genetically prone to male pattern baldness, it’s wise to monitor your hair and be cautious with any hormonal triggers. But for the average user, creatine is still considered safe and effective for its intended purpose: boosting strength and performance.