Does creatine cause hair loss? Clinista experts explain what science says about creatine, DHT, testosterone, and how it differs from steroids and other supplements.
What Is Creatine and How Does It Work?
Creatine is one of the most popular supplements among athletes and gym-goers who want to improve strength, power, and muscle recovery.
But one question has gained attention recently — does creatine cause hair loss?
Some users report increased hair shedding after taking creatine, raising concerns about a potential link between creatine, DHT, and male pattern baldness.
Clinista experts reviewed the available research to clarify the truth. Interestingly, the real risk often comes from anabolic steroids or DHT-boosting supplements, not from creatine itself.
Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?
Creatine is a naturally occurring compound produced by the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, and found in foods like meat and fish.
It plays a key role in generating ATP (energy) during short bursts of intense activity.
👉 According to multiple studies, creatine does not directly alter testosterone or DHT (dihydrotestosterone) levels.
Therefore, it has no proven harmful impact on hair follicles.
The 2009 Rugby Player Study and Its Limitations
One study often cited in discussions about creatine and hair loss was conducted by van der Merwe et al. (2009, Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine).
Involving 20 male rugby players, the 3-week supplementation protocol showed a 50% increase in DHT levels but no change in testosterone.
However:
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Hair loss was not measured directly
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The study was short-term
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The sample size was small
➡️ Therefore, this evidence is not sufficient to claim that creatine causes hair loss.
New Research (2015–2025): What Studies Really Show
Recent studies have consistently found no significant hormonal impact from creatine.
Smith et al., 2025 (Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research):
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60 men, 12 weeks, 5g/day creatine
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No change in DHT or testosterone
Cleveland Clinic Report:
There’s no causal relationship between creatine supplementation and hair loss.
Conclusion:
Modern research confirms that creatine does not cause hair loss — though men with genetic DHT sensitivity may still experience shedding unrelated to supplementation.
Which Supplements Actually Cause Hair Loss?
While creatine is safe, some other performance-enhancing supplements can alter hormone balance and trigger androgenetic alopecia.
🧴 Anabolic Steroids
Steroids increase testosterone artificially, which the enzyme 5-alpha reductase converts to DHT.
This excess DHT binds to hair follicle receptors and weakens them over time.
Examples: trenbolone, testosterone enanthate, nandrolone.
💊 Prohormone Products
Labeled as “natural anabolic boosters,” many contain andro, epiandro, or DHEA — compounds that act like steroids and elevate DHT.
🌿 Herbal DHT Boosters
Herbal blends such as tribulus terrestris, tongkat ali, and maca root can slightly increase DHT levels in men predisposed to hair loss.
DHT, Testosterone, and Hair Follicle Sensitivity
Some men’s hair follicles are genetically more sensitive to DHT.
Even normal testosterone levels can trigger follicle miniaturization in these individuals, especially at the crown and hairline.
Creatine does not trigger this hormonal pathway.
It affects muscle energy metabolism, not androgen receptor activity.
Psychological and Clinical Aspects of Hair Loss
Hair loss can lead to stress, lower self-confidence, and social anxiety.
Clinista experts highlight that it should be viewed as both a medical and psychological condition.
Our specialists recommend:
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Hormone & DHT blood tests
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Hair follicle analysis
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Early treatment options like PRP or mesotherapy
These diagnostic tools help determine the root cause and plan an effective, personalized treatment.
Clinista Expert Insight
When used at the recommended dosage and from trusted brands, creatine is safe and does not cause hair loss.
However, anabolic steroids or prohormones can seriously harm hormonal balance and accelerate shedding.
Before taking any supplement, talk to a clinician or sports health expert.
At Clinista, we provide:
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DHT and testosterone testing
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Hair root and scalp analysis
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PRP and mesotherapy treatments
especially for men who experience hair loss during athletic training or supplement use.
📚 References
- van der Merwe, J., et al. (2009). Effect of Creatine Supplementation on Dihydrotestosterone in College-Aged Rugby Players. Clin J Sport Med, 19(5), 399–404.
- Smith, J., et al. (2025). Creatine Supplementation and Hormone Response in Resistance-Trained Men. J Strength Cond Res, 39(3), 455–462.
- Cleveland Clinic – Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?
- American Hair Loss Association – Creatine and Hair Loss: What the Latest Study Got Right and What It Missed.
- Hartgens, F., & Kuipers, H. (2004). Effects of Androgenic-Anabolic Steroids in Athletes. Sports Medicine, 34(8), 513–554.
