Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?

Creatine is one of the most studied sports supplements, especially among athletes and people who do resistance training. But a common question persists: can creatine cause hair loss or baldness? Here’s what the latest research shows, who may be at higher risk, and when to see a dermatologist.

What the Research Shows

A new randomized controlled trial (2025) followed resistance-trained men (ages 18–40) who took 5 g/day of creatine for 12 weeks. The study measured testosterone, free testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and hair follicle health (density, follicular unit count, and hair thickness).

Findings: There were no significant differences between the creatine and placebo groups in hormone levels or hair outcomes.¹ This provides the strongest evidence to date that creatine does not negatively impact scalp hair in healthy men over a 12-week period.

By contrast, an older 2009 study of male rugby players using a short “loading phase” reported increased serum DHT levels.² Because DHT is linked to androgenetic (pattern) hair loss, this study fueled speculation—but it did not measure hair loss itself.

Since then, multiple reviews and trials have failed to replicate the DHT increase or show any negative impact on hair when creatine is taken at standard doses (3–5 g/day).³⁴

👉 Bottom line: Current evidence shows creatine does not cause hair loss in healthy people without genetic predisposition.

Why the Concern?

• DHT link: DHT is strongly implicated in male pattern baldness and some cases of female hair thinning. Because of the 2009 study, creatine remains under scrutiny.²
• Genetics: If you already have a family history of androgenetic alopecia, even minor hormonal shifts may accelerate thinning. Creatine has not been proven to cause hair loss in people without predisposition.
• Duration: Most studies are short-term (weeks to months). Long-term effects (years of supplementation) are less well studied.
• Individual variability: Stress, illness, nutrition, medications, and scalp conditions often play a greater role in hair loss than supplements.

FAQs

Q1: Could creatine cause permanent hair loss?
No strong evidence shows creatine causes permanent hair loss. If shedding were to occur, it may reverse when supplementation is stopped.⁵

Q2: Does everyone who takes creatine lose hair?
No. Most people in studies do not experience hair loss. The risk appears very low, especially without a genetic predisposition.³

Q3: Do higher doses or a loading phase increase risk?
Possibly. The 2009 rugby study using a loading phase showed increased DHT, but no hair loss was measured. Standard doses (3–5 g/day) have not demonstrated a harmful effect.²,³

Q4: What if I already have thinning hair or family history of baldness?
You may want to be cautious. Since the 2025 study excluded people with diagnosed hair loss disorders, it doesn’t fully answer this question. Consulting a dermatologist is a good idea.

Q5: Who should check with a provider before using creatine?
Anyone with endocrine conditions, scalp disorders, hair loss disorders, or a strong family history of baldness should consult a healthcare provider before starting creatine.

Our CT Offices & How We Can Help

At Dermatology Physicians of CT, with offices throughout Fairfield, New Haven, New London, Norwalk and many more CT locations we offer:

• Dermatology consultations to assess scalp and hair follicle health
• Hair and scalp evaluations including density testing and scalp imaging
• Personalized plans with topical treatments, nutrition and supplement advice, and lifestyle strategies
• Ongoing follow-ups to monitor progress and adjust treatment

If you Connecticut and worried about hair thinning, schedule a consultation. We can help determine whether hair loss is genetic, hormonal, nutrition-related, stress-related, or due to other causes.

Bottom Line

The most recent, high-quality evidence shows creatine supplementation at standard doses does not cause hair loss in healthy young men. Earlier concerns stemmed from a single study showing hormonal changes, not hair loss itself. If you are concerned—or if you already have thinning hair—talk with a dermatologist to create a personalized plan.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting or changing supplements, especially if you have existing medical conditions, are on medication, or are experiencing hair loss.

References

1. Forbes SC, Candow DG, Smith-Ryan AE, et al. Creatine supplementation does not affect hair loss or serum hormones in resistance-trained males. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2025;22(1):45. doi:10.1186/s12970-025-00745-3
2. van der Merwe J, Brooks NE, Myburgh KH. Three weeks of creatine monohydrate supplementation affects dihydrotestosterone to testosterone ratio in college-aged rugby players. Clin J Sport Med. 2009;19(5):399-404. doi:10.1097/JSM.0b013e3181b64e6c
3. Candow DG, et al. Effectiveness of creatine supplementation for health and performance outcomes: an umbrella review. Nutrients. 2022;14(6):1285. doi:10.3390/nu14061285
4. Forbes SC, et al. Effects of creatine supplementation on testosterone and DHT: a systematic review. J Strength Cond Res. 2021;35(12):3456-3464. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000003390
5. Medical News Today. Does creatine cause hair loss? Updated 2024. Accessed September 16, 2025. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-creatine-cause-hair-loss