Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss? What the Research Says
Creatine and hair loss: understanding the evidence
A clear look at where the concern came from, how DHT works and what research measuring hair health has found.
By Evolution Supplements · Updated 13 October 2026
Creatine and hair loss is a common talking point online. If you are considering adding creatine to your training routine, you may have wondered whether there is any truth behind it.
Current research does not support the claim that creatine causes hair loss. A controlled study published in 2025 directly assessed hair health and found no significant differences between participants taking creatine and those taking a placebo.
Where did the concern come from?
Much of the discussion traces back to a small study published in 2009 involving male rugby players. Researchers reported an increase in dihydrotestosterone, commonly called DHT, following a creatine loading phase and maintenance period.
DHT is a hormone formed when the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase converts testosterone into DHT. This conversion takes place in tissues throughout the body, including the scalp.
DHT plays a role in hereditary male pattern hair loss, particularly in people whose hair follicles are genetically sensitive to it. The hormone finding led to speculation about creatine and thinning hair.
However, the study did not measure hair loss, hair density or changes to the participants’ hairlines. It reported a hormone change, rather than demonstrating that taking creatine caused hair loss.
Does higher DHT automatically mean hair loss?
A rise in blood DHT does not automatically mean hair loss. Hereditary male pattern hair loss involves how sensitive particular hair follicles are to DHT, alongside local hormone activity within the scalp.
Greater 5-alpha-reductase activity can increase the conversion of testosterone into DHT. The enzyme’s activity is one part of the process, rather than a simple predictor of whether someone will lose hair. DHT has already undergone this conversion; it does not need to be converted again by that enzyme to act on hair follicles.
In susceptible follicles, DHT can contribute to gradual miniaturisation: hairs become finer as their growth cycles change. A blood DHT measurement alone cannot show how much of this is happening in the scalp.
This is why research measuring hair density and thickness gives more direct evidence about hair loss than a hormone measurement on its own.
What did the newer study find?
In 2025, researchers investigated the question more directly in a 12-week randomised controlled trial. Forty-five resistance-trained men were enrolled, and 38 completed the study.
Participants took either 5g of creatine monohydrate daily or a placebo. Researchers assessed hormone levels and measurements of hair health, including:
Hair density.
Hair thickness.
Follicular unit count.
There were no significant differences in DHT levels or the measured hair outcomes between the creatine and placebo groups.
The findings are reassuring. This was a relatively small, 12-week study in men; longer studies would help build on these results.
Other factors that can affect your hair
Genetics, stress, illness, significant weight loss and low iron can all contribute to hair changes. If you notice persistent thinning or unusual shedding, your GP can help you understand what is behind it.
Creatine and hair loss FAQs
Did the original rugby study show hair loss?
No. The 2009 study measured hormones, rather than hair loss or changes in hair density. Its findings sparked a theory that required further investigation.
Does a higher DHT level guarantee hair loss?
No. Follicle sensitivity and local scalp hormone activity also matter. Blood DHT levels alone do not determine whether someone will experience hereditary hair loss.
Do these findings apply to every creatine formulation?
The trial used creatine monohydrate at 5g daily. Other formulations and doses were not tested in this study.
Explore more about creatine
Our main guide covers creatine’s role in training, different formats, serving instructions and building a consistent routine.
General information for adults. Follow product directions and seek qualified advice about suitability if you have a medical condition, take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding.
