If you’ve started taking creatine and noticed a few more hairs in your brush, it’s natural to feel a little concerned. You’re not alone in wondering if there’s a connection. Creatine is one of the most researched and trusted supplements for improving strength and muscle gains, so the idea that it could cause hair loss is a topic that generates a lot of discussion and confusion online.
Let’s look at where this idea comes from and what the science actually says. The concern isn’t about creatine itself directly attacking your hair follicles. Instead, it centers on a hormone called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT.
The Link Between Creatine and DHT
The entire debate stems from a single, often-cited study from 2009. In this research, college rugby players took a creatine loading protocol for several weeks. The researchers found that levels of DHT, a potent form of testosterone, increased in the creatine group compared to the placebo group.
DHT is a key player in male pattern hair loss. In people who are genetically sensitive to it, DHT can bind to receptors in the hair follicles on your scalp, causing them to shrink over time and eventually stop producing hair. So, the theory is that creatine might increase DHT, which could then accelerate hair loss in those who are predisposed to it.
What the Broader Research Shows
It’s crucial to put that one study into perspective. This is the only study that has ever shown a link between creatine supplementation and an increase in DHT. No other research has replicated this finding. Many other studies on creatine have looked at a wide range of health markers and have not reported hair loss as a side effect.
Furthermore, the increase in DHT observed in the 2009 study remained within the normal clinical range. For most experts, the current evidence is simply not strong enough to say that creatine causes hair loss. The connection remains a theory based on very limited data.
What This Means for You
If you have a strong family history of male or female pattern baldness, you might be more aware of any potential triggers. Based on the current science, the risk of creatine accelerating hair loss appears to be very low, if it exists at all. For the vast majority of people, creatine remains a safe and effective supplement.
Hair loss is complex and is usually caused by a combination of genetics, hormones, age, and other health factors. If you are experiencing significant hair thinning, it’s always a good idea to speak with a doctor or dermatologist. They can help you identify the true root cause.