Creatine does not directly cause hair loss, but there is some debate and confusion around this topic. Creatine is a widely used ergogenic aid that enhances muscle strength and lean mass. However, concerns have been raised about the potential role in promoting hair loss by increasing dihydrotestosterone (DHT). All medical studies to date have not demonstrated any direct link between creatine supplementation and actual hair loss.
Study
The National Institute of Health (April 2025) recently posted an abstract on this randomized controlled trial. The purpose was to determine the effects of 12 weeks of creatine supplementation on androgen levels and hair follicle health in healthy young males.
Methods
Forty-five resistance-trained males (ages 18-40 years) were recruited and randomly assigned to either a creatine monohydrate (5 g/day) or placebo (5 g maltodextrin/day) group. Participants maintained their usual diets and exercise routines. Blood samples were collected at baseline, and again after 12-weeks, to measure total testosterone, free testosterone, and DHT. Hair follicle health was assessed using the Trichogram test and the FotoFinder system (hair density, follicular unit count, and cumulative hair thickness). Board-certified Dermatologists conducted these hair assessments to ensure high accuracy and reliability in the evaluation process.
Results
Thirty-eight participants completed the study, with no significant differences in baseline characteristics between groups. There were no significant differences in DHT levels, DHT-to-testosterone ratio, or hair growth parameters between the creatine and placebo groups.
Conclusion
This study was the first to directly assess hair follicle health following creatine supplementation, providing strong evidence against the claim that creatine contributes to hair loss. Creatine may increase DHT slightly in some people, but it doesn’t mean hair loss.
There have been a number of independent scientific studies, and the current body of medical evidence does not show that creatine supplementation increases testosterone, DHT, or causes hair loss and/or baldness. Hair loss depends more on genetics, rather than on creatine intake.
Dr. Paul J. McAndrews is a world-renowned expert in hair loss and hair restoration, and one of only two physicians to have served as President of both the ISHRS and ABHRS. He is a Clinical Professor at USC/LAC Medical Center and an Expert Medical Reviewer for the California Medical Board. Known for his artistic, patient-focused approach, Dr. McAndrews performs one hair transplant per day to ensure exceptional, individualized results.