From the Guidelines
Creatine supplementation does not have a strongly supported direct link to causing or exacerbating male pattern baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia), despite theoretical concerns about its potential to increase dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels. The relationship between creatine and hair loss is largely speculative, with most research on creatine focusing on its performance benefits rather than its effects on hair loss. According to the most recent study available, 1, Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common condition affecting 58% of men by age 50, but there is no direct evidence linking creatine supplementation to an increased risk of AGA.
Key Points to Consider
- Theoretical concerns about creatine increasing DHT levels, which could potentially exacerbate male pattern baldness, have not been consistently supported by research.
- Creatine is widely studied for its performance benefits, with dosages of 3-5 grams daily being typical for athletic performance enhancement.
- Individuals with a family history of male pattern baldness may want to monitor their hair shedding when starting creatine supplementation as a precaution, although this is based on speculative rather than definitive evidence.
- The mechanism by which creatine might influence DHT conversion from testosterone remains speculative and requires further investigation to be confirmed.
Evidence and Recommendations
Given the current state of evidence, the use of creatine supplements at recommended dosages (3-5 grams daily) is unlikely to cause significant hair loss in most individuals. However, as with any supplement, individual responses can vary, and those with specific concerns about hair loss should consult with a healthcare professional. The study on 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors 1 provides insight into the management of conditions related to DHT levels but does not directly address the relationship between creatine supplementation and hair loss. Therefore, monitoring for any changes in hair shedding and maintaining good hair care practices are prudent for individuals starting creatine supplementation, especially if they have a family history of male pattern baldness.
From the Research
Creatine Supplementation and Hair Loss
- There is a common misconception that creatine supplementation can cause or exacerbate male pattern baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia) by increasing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels 2.
- However, a 12-week randomized controlled trial found no significant differences in DHT levels, DHT-to-testosterone ratio, or hair growth parameters between the creatine and placebo groups, providing strong evidence against the claim that creatine contributes to hair loss 3.
- The study, which involved 45 resistance-trained males, found that creatine supplementation did not affect hair follicle health, as assessed using the Trichogram test and the FotoFinder system 3.
- Other studies have also found that creatine supplementation is safe and well-tolerated in healthy individuals, with few adverse effects reported 4, 5, 6.
- The current evidence suggests that creatine supplementation does not cause hair loss, and any concerns about its potential role in promoting hair loss are unfounded 3.
Key Findings
- A 12-week randomized controlled trial found no significant differences in hair-related outcomes between creatine and placebo groups 3.
- Creatine supplementation does not affect DHT levels or DHT-to-testosterone ratio 3.
- Hair follicle health is not affected by creatine supplementation, as assessed using the Trichogram test and the FotoFinder system 3.
- Creatine supplementation is safe and well-tolerated in healthy individuals, with few adverse effects reported 4, 5, 6.