Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?

If you take creatine for workouts, you may have heard it causes hair loss. This concern has been around since 2009. But what does the science actually say?

Where Did This Concern Come From?

In 2009, a small study of college rugby players found that creatine increased a hormone called DHT by 56% after one week. DHT is linked to male pattern baldness in people who are genetically prone to it. This single study started the hair loss concern.

However, that study had only 20 people and did not measure actual hair loss. The DHT levels also stayed within normal range.

What Does Current Research Show?

A 2025 clinical trial was the first to directly test whether creatine affects hair. Researchers followed 45 men for 12 weeks who took either creatine or a placebo. They measured hormone levels and hair health including density, thickness, and follicle count.

The results: no change in DHT levels, testosterone, or any measure of hair health. The study found no link between creatine and hair loss.

Additionally, 12 other studies have looked at creatine and hormones. None found significant increases in DHT or testosterone that would cause hair loss.

What About Genetic Hair Loss?

Male pattern baldness is mostly genetic. If your father or grandfather lost their hair, you may be at higher risk. Some experts say that people with a strong family history of hair loss may want to be cautious with any supplements.

The 2025 study did not include people with diagnosed hair loss conditions. So we still need more research on people who are already losing hair.

The Bottom Line

Based on current evidence, creatine at standard doses (3-5 grams per day) does not cause hair loss in healthy people. The concern comes from one small 2009 study that newer, better research has not confirmed.

If you have concerns about hair loss or a family history of baldness, talk to a dermatologist before starting any supplement.