Creatine has become one of the biggest trends in the wellness world, with Google searches for the popular performance supplement rising by 74% in just 12 months. But as more people add it to their daily routines, questions are emerging about its wider effects on the body, including whether it could be linked to hair thinning.
Dr Abdulaziz Balwi, medical director at Elithair, reveals how creatine affects the hair, what the science says, and whether users should be concerned.
Dr Abdulaziz Balwi, medical director at Elithair says:
What is creatine and how does it affect the body?
“Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in the muscles that helps the body produce energy during short bursts of intense activity, such as weightlifting or sprinting. As a supplement, it increases the amount of creatine stored in the muscles, helping to improve strength, exercise performance and muscle growth.
It is one of the most widely researched sports supplements and is generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses.”
Can creatine cause hair loss?
“There is currently no strong scientific evidence that creatine directly causes hair loss. Concerns around creatine and thinning hair come from a small study that suggested it may increase levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with genetic hair loss. However, the study did not measure actual hair loss, and more research is needed to confirm whether there is any meaningful link.
For most people, taking creatine as recommended is unlikely to cause hair thinning. However, those who are already genetically predisposed to male or female pattern hair loss may want to monitor any changes in shedding or hair density and seek advice from a hair specialist if they notice a difference.
It is also important to remember that hair loss is usually influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, hormones, stress, nutrition and lifestyle, so it is unlikely to be caused by a single supplement alone.”
Can any other performance supplements contribute to thinning hair?
“Some performance supplements can potentially contribute to hair thinning, particularly those that affect hormone levels. Anabolic steroids and certain bodybuilding supplements containing androgenic compounds can increase levels of hormones such as DHT, which may accelerate hair loss in people who are genetically susceptible.
More common supplements, such as protein powders and creatine, are not generally linked to hair loss when used correctly. However, excessive supplementation, extreme dieting or nutritional deficiencies during periods of intense training can affect the hair cycle and contribute to increased shedding.
If someone notices changes in their hair after starting a new supplement, it is worth reviewing their wider routine, including diet, training intensity, stress levels and any other health changes, rather than assuming the supplement alone is responsible.”
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