It is unlucky if you are suffering hair loss. To have a good cure for your hair problem, you have to identify the main reason causing hair loss. You may hear or read somewhere that creatine can cause hair loss and baldness. So does creatine cause hair loss? Are there any relationships between creatine supplementation and hair shedding? Is creatine hair loss reversible? Reading on to learn more about creatine, its benefits, and its connection to hair loss.

What is creatine?

If you spend any time researching creatine through online boards, you know that it is a sports supplement. People widely use it as a muscle-builder, increasing muscle mass and boost the performance of athletes. When taking this supplementation, you realize that it produces more energy. 

Creatine is naturally found in most animal products like red meat and fish. Numerous studies indicate that creatine works to increase strength, muscles, as well as improve recovery after your physical activity. You can easily find this supplementation out there, in a variety of forms, including tablets, powders, and liquids. Creatine monohydrates hair loss is the most common type and works more effectively than others. 

Still, some say that taking creatine also leads to hair loss. You have big muscles but a shiny and bald head. So let’s dig a bit deeper. 

What researches say about creatine and hair loss

There is no scientific evidence show indicate that creatine cause hair loss. The converse of that is also true: there is no scientific evidence that rules out a bald head like an unwanted effect of taking creatine supplementation.

However, a 2009 study, published in the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine, showed the connecting creatine to hair loss. The study followed 20 rugby players at the age of college when they took supplementation for 3 weeks. They took about 25 grams a day while the typical recommendation is just 5 grams daily. 

The study found that consuming creatine supplementation increase the dihydrotestosterone (DHT) hormone level. DHT hormone is derived from testosterone – a hormone that you may have heard. But it’s important to note that researchers did not notice hair loss symptoms in the study participants. 

“My husband consumed creatine supplementation but he stopped it when noticing his hair got thinner.” “I knew this one guy who used creatine supplementation and was bald after several years.” There are numerous comments similar to this when you search about creatine on the Internet. They are stories based on personal experience. Creatine hair loss, they may or may not be connected. 

About creatine DHT hair loss

A 2009 study found that taking creatine increase 50% levels of DHT during the loading period. The increase of DHT levels may put you at risk. When DHT connects to specific hormone receptors in hair follicles, it leads to briefer hair growth and your strands get thinner. Gradually, hair falls out. If you are genetically predisposed to hair loss, you should consider it before consuming creatine.

So, can creatine cause hair loss? Overall, more research is needed into creatine side effects hair loss. Further research to find out whether creatine supplementation promotes hair loss. 

Does creatine have side effects?

The most common unwanted effects of this sports supplement is water retention. Besides, you can see other possible symptoms, including muscle cramps, dizziness, dehydration, and nausea. Please find medical treatment if you notice them. Here are some potential side effects of creatine you should be aware of: 

Water retention

Creatine is a popular nutritional and sports supplement that supplies more energy to help you get big muscles. Still, it causes water retention, leading to temporary weight gain. It is not good for athletes as it is likely to lead to dehydration and cramps. This side effect is short-lived and insignificant. 

Kidney concerns

Some reviewed that creatine is not safe for those with kidney disease or other underlying kidney problems. 

However, a 2018 study showed that creatine supplementation had no negative effects on the kidney and liver on healthy individuals. Other studies also found no evidence that creatine has side effects on these organs. 

Digestive issues

Like most supplements and medications, excessive doses of creatine may cause some digestive problems. As we stated, the recommended dose is set at 5 grams daily. But if you increase the dose, a 10-gram, may put you in the risk of diarrhea. Hence, you have to purchase hair loss creatine in a trustworthy place. 

Finally, there is a creatine hair loss myth that the supplementation is just for men, not for women, children, and the elder. But there is no research to cover the negative effects of creatine. It has been given to adolescents in some medical conditions, such as muscle loss or neuromuscular disorders. 

For these reasons, if anyone considering the use of creatine supplements, you should always consult your doctor or medical professional first.

When to see medical professional

As discussed above, taking creatine does not directly result in your hair shedding or baldness. Still, if you are still going through this hair concern, don’t hesitate to ask professional. Besides, make an appointment with a doctor if you are undergoing sudden or patchy hair loss. 

Different hair loss causes are treatable. Find the main cause of your hair problem and the right treatment for you. 

Final thoughts

Creatine has been widely used with benefits for muscle. But does creatine cause hair loss? Creatine itself does not directly cause hair loss. Over 500 researches support its effectiveness and safety.  

This supplementation now is used in many medical settings to treat an array of diseases. Furthermore, it is among the cheapest and most effective supplements available. 

Additionally, what if you are experiencing hair loss already? You cannot wait for the hair regrow. Stop taking creatine and consider wearing hair extension instead. Many exquisite hair systems are available on the hair market, and they are natural-looking. Don’t hesitate to try it. 

Take a look at our hair extension on the website or contact us to get consulted. And don’t forget to share this post.