Creatine is a popular supplement, especially among athletes and bodybuilders, because it helps boost muscle strength and improve exercise performance. It’s naturally found in small amounts in foods like red meat and fish, and our bodies also produce it in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. When you take creatine as a supplement, it increases the availability of ATP, which is the main energy source for muscles during intense activities like weightlifting or sprinting.
But despite its benefits, some people worry that creatine might cause hair loss. So, does it? The short answer is not directly. Creatine doesn’t cause hair to fall out, but it might play a role in a process that can lead to hair thinning.
This concern comes from the fact that creatine may increase a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is linked to hair loss in people who are genetically prone to it. Higher DHT levels can make hair follicles shrink, making it harder for hair to grow, which can eventually lead to hair thinning or loss.
How fast does creatine cause hair loss?
The speed at which creatine might lead to hair loss can vary greatly from person to person. Since creatine itself doesn’t directly cause hair loss, the timeline depends more on how your body reacts to changes in hormone levels, specifically DHT.
For some people, any increase in DHT could potentially trigger hair thinning relatively quickly, possibly within a few weeks to a few months of starting creatine. However, this isn’t the case for everyone. If you’re genetically predisposed to hair loss, you might notice hair thinning sooner. On the other hand, if you don’t have a strong genetic tendency toward hair loss, you might not notice any changes at all, even with long-term creatine use.
It’s also important to remember that hair loss is a gradual process. Even if creatine does contribute to it, the effects are likely to happen slowly over time rather than overnight.
Frequently asked questions about hair loss
Does creatine cause hair loss in everyone?
No, creatine does not cause hair loss in everyone. It may contribute to hair thinning in those genetically predisposed by increasing DHT levels, but it doesn’t directly cause hair loss.
How does creatine affect DHT levels and hair loss?
Creatine may increase DHT levels, a hormone linked to hair loss. Elevated DHT can shrink hair follicles, potentially leading to hair thinning in those prone to it.
Can you prevent hair loss while taking creatine?
To help prevent hair loss while taking creatine, consider monitoring your hair, using DHT-blocking shampoos, and consulting your pharmacy for personalised advice.
