Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?
The Myth vs The Facts
Reviewed by Dr Epameinondas Bonaros
Creatine is one of the most studied supplements for boosting athletic performance and muscle strength. Yet common concerns still arise, like “Does creatine cause hair loss?”
A 2009 study fueled this belief by suggesting a potential link between creatine supplementation and elevated levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone connected with hair loss in individuals with a genetic predisposition.
However, a 2025 double-blind study on creatine and hair loss shifts this perception.
Does creatine increase DHT? Read on as we uncover scientific evidence and explore the origin of the creatine hair loss myth.
Table of Contents
Creatine & Hair Loss
Does creatine cause baldness, and what is the efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise?
Let’s examine the scientific evidence to address these common questions and misconceptions.
What is Creatine?
Creatine is a chemical structure that your body produces naturally in the liver, kidneys and pancreas. It is stored in your skeletal muscle, also known as striated muscle, which is a type of muscle tissue that attaches to bones and is responsible for movement and posture. You also obtain it from eating animal proteins, such as red meat, fish and poultry.
It functions as a rapid energy source for your muscles by helping to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which fuels your cells for energy.
This protein supplement is most effective for short spurts of high-intensity exercise, such as weightlifting or sports that require quick movements, like tennis or football. However, creatine monohydrate supplementation (one of the most common forms of creatine available) does not significantly enhance endurance performance in activities like long-distance running.
Your body typically makes enough creatine for daily functions, so supplementation isn’t necessary for general health. However, athletes commonly use creatine supplements to enhance their workout performance and training capacity.
Origin of the Misconception About Creatine Supplementation
In 2009, a study published in the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine examined the effects of creatine monohydrate on the DHT-to-testosterone ratio among 20 male rugby players.
The findings indicated that DHT increased significantly after creatine supplementation, sparking theories that creatine may accelerate hair loss by increasing DHT, which is known to contribute to male pattern baldness.
From this, large-scale misconceptions about DHT and creatine’s effects circulated in exercise and sports performance and sports nutrition circles. However, this study did not directly assess hair loss. This led to speculative conclusions and the premature linking of creatine to baldness.
The 2025 Double-Blind Randomised Study:
Shedding New Light
A study published in 2025 in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition provided direct evidence regarding the effect of creatine on hair follicle health.
Spanning 12 weeks, the double-blind, randomised study involved 38 resistance-trained males. They were either assigned to a creatine monohydrate group or a placebo group. Contrary to the 2009 study, the 2025 research found no meaningful changes in DHT levels or any other androgenic effects that could negatively impact hair health.
Study Methodology
Participants in the creatine group received 5g/day of creatine monohydrate. The researchers monitored their androgen levels and assessed hair follicle health using advanced imaging technology.
Findings
The results showed no significant differences between the creatine and placebo groups in terms of hair growth parameters, DHT levels, or the DHT-to-testosterone ratio. All hormonal changes remained within normal physiological limits. Thus, there was no increased risk of hair loss from taking creatine. Hair loss stems primarily from genetic and hereditary factors.
Is Hair Loss & Creatine Linked?
The 2025 study provides strong clinical evidence against the notion that creatine causes hair loss. While creatine can increase DHT, these levels remain within normal ranges and are unlikely to trigger hair loss beyond what is genetically predisposed.
Possible Side Effects of Creatine While creatine is widely considered safe for most healthy individuals when taken at recommended doses, it’s essential to be aware of any possible side effects. You should be especially diligent if you have pre-existing health conditions.- Water retention: This is the most commonly reported side effect, particularly during the first week of creatine. This is due to the creatine pulling water into your muscles along with sodium. However, experts believe this water gain balances out as your muscle mass increases, meaning your overall body water levels stay proportionate over time.
- Kidney Function: One of the most common concerns is kidney function. Although there’s no strong evidence linking creatine to kidney damage in healthy people, those with chronic kidney disease or renal dysfunction should be cautious. It’s best to consult your doctor before starting creatine supplementation.
- Muscle camping and dehydration: There have also been anecdotal reports of muscle cramping and dehydration. However, studies on this are conflicting, and there’s no consistent scientific proof that creatine directly causes these issues.
- Liver health: Some worry about its impact on liver function, especially with high doses. While research hasn’t confirmed a link between creatine and liver damage in healthy individuals, it’s wise to stay within recommended doses and monitor your health.
Get expert insights on hair loss, including topics like creatine and DHT, in our free, easy-to-read resource library.
Dr Bonaros: Glasgow’s Effective Hair Restoration Expert
At the Dr Bonaros Hair Transplant Clinic, we deliver professional and responsible treatments tailored to each patient’s circumstances. Dr Bonaros and the teams prides themselves on their expert knowledge and compassionate approach to all hair restoration patients.
Dr Bonaros maintains membership with the British Association of Hair Restoration Surgery (BAHRS) and stands as Scotland’s only member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS). His diplomate certification with the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (ABHRS) represents the sole recognised board qualification in specialised hair restoration.
For more questions like “Does creatine cause hair loss?” and how to start your journey to curb hair thinning, book your consult today.