Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss? Here’s What the Science Really Says

When it comes to supplements, creatine is one of the few that actually deserves the hype. It’s affordable, effective, safe, and widely researched.

Creatine can be especially helpful for:

• Vegans & vegetarians

• Midlife & older adults

• Athletes who need strength, speed, and power

• Anyone looking to build or maintain lean muscle

But one rumor just won’t quit: creatine causes hair loss.

Where the rumor comes from

The theory goes like this: creatine might increase conversion of testosterone into DHT, the hormone linked to male-pattern baldness. Sounds scary, right? But until recently, there was little actual evidence.

What the new study found

Researchers put it to the test:

• 38 resistance-trained men

• 12 weeks of training + either 5g creatine daily or placebo

• Hormone levels tested at the start and end

• Hair follicle health measured with a trichogram

The results? Both groups had normal hormonal fluctuations, but no significant changes in testosterone, DHT, or hair health—and no difference between creatine and placebo.

Translation: creatine did not cause hair loss.

Coaching takeaways

1. Supplements are optional. If you’re concerned about hair loss, you don’t have to take creatine. The basics—food, sleep, stress, training—matter more.

2. Lifestyle supports hair health. Hair loss is often genetic, but stress, under-eating, and nutrient deficiencies can make it worse. Eating enough, especially protein, and managing stress can help support overall health (including hair).

Bottom line

Creatine isn’t the enemy of your hairline. It remains one of the best-studied, most beneficial supplements for strength, muscle, and performance. But like all supplements, it’s just the cherry on top—never the foundation.