The fear that creatine and hair loss causes hair loss has kept countless men from using the most-studied and effective supplement in fitness. It stems from a single 2009 South African study on rugby players. But does the science actually support this fear? Let’s look at what we know — and what we don’t.
The Evidence: One Study vs Everything Else
The 2009 study (van der Merwe et al.): 20 college-age rugby players took creatine for 3 weeks. Their DHT levels increased by 56% during the loading phase. DHT is the hormone linked to male pattern baldness. But here’s what matters: The study didn’t measure hair loss — only DHT levels. DHT alone doesn’t cause hair loss; you also need genetic sensitivity (DHT-sensitive follicles). No other study has replicated these DHT results. 12+ subsequent studies on creatine and hormones found no significant DHT increase. The International Society of Sports Nutrition states creatine does not cause hair loss based on current evidence.
The Bottom Line
If you’re NOT predisposed to male pattern baldness: Zero concern. Take creatine freely. If baldness runs in your family AND you’re already noticing thinning: The theoretical risk is very small, but not zero. If you’re worried, monitor your hair over 3-6 months of use. If you notice increased shedding, discontinue and reassess. Reality check: Millions of men take creatine daily with no hair loss. If it were a significant cause, we’d have mountains of evidence by now — not one unreplicated study from 2009.
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Axel is the founder of ReadySleek and has spent over 5 years researching and testing men’s grooming products, skincare routines, and hair loss treatments. His work combines hands-on product testing with insights from dermatologists and trichologists to deliver evidence-based grooming advice.
He specializes in men’s skincare (including ingredient analysis of retinol, niacinamide, and SPF), hair loss science (minoxidil, finasteride, hair transplants), men’s fragrance (with 80+ colognes personally tested), and body grooming techniques.
When he’s not reviewing the latest grooming products, Axel focuses on making complex grooming topics accessible and actionable for everyday guys.
