Creatine is one of the most widely used and extensively researched nutritional supplements in the world. It is popular among athletes, gym-goers and those looking to support strength, recovery and overall performance. However, for many patients attending HRBR, a common question still arises: does creatine cause hair loss?
This concern is understandable. Hair loss is deeply personal, and misinformation—particularly online—can spread quickly. In this article, I want to clarify where this concern came from and what the science actually shows.
What is creatine?
Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in small amounts in foods such as red meat and fish and is also produced by the body. It plays a key role in energy production within muscle cells, particularly during short bursts of high-intensity activity. For most healthy individuals, creatine monohydrate is considered safe when taken at recommended doses and has been extensively studied in sports and medical research.
Where did the hair loss concern come from?
The idea that creatine may cause hair loss stems almost entirely from one small study published in 2009 involving rugby players. This study reported an increase in blood levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) during a short creatine supplementation period. Importantly, the study did not measure hair loss, hair shedding or scalp hair density at any point. It measured hormone levels only.
Despite this, the findings were widely misinterpreted online. Over time, the assumption that increased DHT automatically equals hair loss became accepted in forums and social media—without clinical evidence to support it.
Understanding DHT and hair loss
DHT is a derivative of testosterone and plays a role in androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern hair loss). Crucially, DHT only causes hair loss in individuals whose hair follicles are genetically sensitive to it. Many people have normal or even elevated DHT levels and never experience hair thinning.
Hair loss occurs when genetically susceptible follicles undergo miniaturisation over time. This process is determined by genetics and follicular sensitivity—not by short-term hormonal fluctuations alone.
What does more recent research show?
Since 2009, creatine has been subjected to far more rigorous investigation. Most notably, a 12-week randomised controlled trial published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition directly examined hormone levels and hair follicle health in resistance-trained men.
The study found no significant change in DHT levels, no difference in hair density, follicular unit count or cumulative hair thickness, and no evidence that creatine supplementation caused or accelerated hair loss.
Why do some people notice shedding?
Many individuals begin creatine supplementation at the same time as other lifestyle changes such as intensified training, dietary restriction or weight loss. Any of these factors can trigger a temporary increase in hair shedding, known as telogen effluvium. This is often mistaken for pattern hair loss, but it does not indicate permanent follicular damage.
The HRBR perspective
Hair loss medicine must be evidence-based. There is currently no robust clinical evidence that creatine causes or accelerates hair loss. The original concern arose from a misinterpreted hormone study, while more recent, higher-quality research measuring hair outcomes has found no adverse effects.
Final thoughts
Creatine is one of the most studied supplements available. While ongoing research is always welcome, current evidence does not support the claim that creatine causes or worsens hair loss.
If you are concerned about hair thinning, the most important factors to address are genetics, early diagnosis and appropriate medical management—not unnecessary avoidance of safe, well-researched supplements.
About the Author
DR Maurice Collins
Consultant Surgeon
MB, B.Ch, BAO, DLO, FRCSI, FRCS, FRCSEd.
Registered with the Medical Council of Ireland
Dr Collins is Medical Director and Team Principal of Hair Restoration Blackrock. He was educated at Belvedere College Dublin and did his undergraduate medical studies at University College Dublin. After graduating as a doctor he trained in General Surgery and received his Fellowship (FRCSI) in this specialty from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
Find out more about DR Maurice Collins and our team of doctors and surgeons.
