Creatine supplements have gained popularity among individuals seeking to enhance stamina, develop strength, and increase muscle mass.
While naturally present in our bodies as an organic acid, creatine is often consumed by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to improve concentration, strength, and performance.
Rumors have circulated about a creatine side effect - hair loss.
Is there any truth to these claims? Can creatine cause hair loss?
Summary
The answer to "Does creatine make you lose hair?" is the same for male and female, no. There is no strong scientific evidence supporting a direct relationship between creatine and hair loss.
We are also not denying this possibility, as future research might. So, if your question is "Will creatine cause hair loss?", the answer is it's possible.
However, if you're experiencing hair loss while taking creatine supplements, consult your dermatologist to identify the underlying cause and explore potential solutions we presented.
Debunking the creatine hair loss myth
Several hair loss myths can circulate fast, and it is essential to rely on accurate information and scientific research to make informed decisions about supplement use.
The "creatine hair loss" rumor gained traction following a 2009 study involving 20 rugby players who took creatine supplements daily for three weeks. The study found that creatine might indirectly increase the level of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair thinning and loss.
However, no definitive link between creatine and balding has been established.
DHT and its impact on hair
DHT interacts with hair follicles, causing them to shrink and eventually stop producing hair. Creatine has been suggested to increase DHT levels by converting testosterone to DHT in the presence of enzyme 5-alpha-reductase.
DHT is a major contributing factor in androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness, which affects both men and women.
However, there is insufficient evidence to support the notion that creatine directly enhances testosterone levels, leading to hair loss.
Does creatine cause hair loss?
There is no direct evidence linking creatine to hair loss, but it may be a contributing factor in some cases.
There is some evidence that creatine may contribute to hair loss. A study published in semanticscholar.org found that certain supplements, including creatine, can negatively affect hair loss through various metabolic pathways.
Creatine hair health concerns persist, but scientific research is still ongoing.
Is creatine safe for hair health?
According to the International Society of Sports Nutrition, creatine is safe, effective, and ethical to consume under proper guidelines. Nonetheless, research is ongoing to understand its long-term effects on hair health and overall well-being.
Can hair loss due to creatine regrow?
If your hair loss is attributed to creatine, it will likely grow back when you discontinue the supplement. However, if creatine has exacerbated your genetic predisposition to hair loss, regrowth may not occur. To know exactly which case you are, you can either look at the signs of balding or talk to a hair expert.
How to prevent hair loss while taking creatine?
The obvious first step is to stop creatine. However, if you don't want to, you still have plenty of options.
First of all, you need to maintain a healthy hair care routine and follow hair care tips from professionals. This helps keep hair healthy.
Hair growth products can only be so effective - your body is ultimately in control of your hair growth.
Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine
We know you're working hard to achieve those fitness goals, and creatine has been your trusty companion. But what about the rumors of creatine-induced hair loss? It might be a myth, but your hair loss is still there!?
Fear not, for Scandinavian Biolabs is here to help you combat hair loss with our scientifically-backed Hair Growth Routine.
Our innovative Bio-Pilixin® formula, a blend of nature and science, has been clinically tested to deliver impressive results:
- Hair loss reduction for 93% of users
- 73% experienced increased hair density
- 97% enjoyed less hair loss overall
Our Hair Growth Routine combines three scientifically-designed steps for a healthier scalp and hair growth:
- Hair Growth Serum: Our Bio-Pilixin® Activation Serum strengthens, thickens, and stimulates hair growth daily for a thriving scalp.
- Hair Strength Shampoo: Infused with naturally-derived ingredients like Capilia Longa and amino acid complex, our shampoo nourishes and prepares your scalp for optimal growth.
- Hair Recovery Conditioner: Lock in moisture and essential nutrients with our botanical conditioner for strong, vibrant hair.
But don't just take our word for it.
In a recent survey, Scandinavian Biolabs stood out among the competition:
- 85% of users preferred our products over all other solutions
- 78% chose us over conventional drug-based products
- 92% favored us over caffeine shampoos alone
Continue your fitness journey with confidence, knowing you're backed by proven results and a money-back guarantee.
Biotin supplements
Also known as Vitamin H, biotin stimulates hair growth and contributes to healthy skin, hair, and nails.
You would usually find biotin shampoo in your local cosmetic store, which is our recommended way - topical application. Taking biotin orally is not a bad choice, but it means hair growth can come in areas where you don't want it to.
DHT blocker shampoos
It's only logical to say that if creatine increased your DHT, using a DHT blocker shampoo can help reduce the hair loss.
However, be aware of DHT blocker shampoo side effects.
Minoxidil
A topical solution that increases the anagen phase and blood supply to the hair follicles, effectively treating hair thinning and reducing hair fall.
Don't expect instant results here as minoxidil results might take up to a year to show.
See minoxidil before and after to know what to expect
Finasteride
An inhibitor of 5-alpha-reductase that helps convert testosterone to DHT, stimulating hair regrowth and treating hair loss in men. In other words, a DHT blocker.
Finasteride is an FDA-approved treatment, which means it has been extensively studied for effectiveness and safety. Finasteride results might take up to a year to develop.
Still, since finasteride interfere with your hormones, it might cause some DHT blockers side effects.
See finasteride before and after to know what to expect
Hair Nutrient Tablets
The Hair Nutrient Tablets contain zinc for the maintenance of normal hair, as well as niacin and riboflavin for the maintenance of normal skin.
Maintaining scalp health is also crucial for hair growth, as it provides a healthy environment for hair follicles to thrive - which is why these tablets are important to helping hair grow back after creatine-induced hair loss.
Conclusion
While creatine offers numerous benefits for athletic performance and overall health, there is no strong scientific evidence to support a direct link between creatine intake and hair loss.
If you're concerned about hair loss while taking creatine supplements, consult your dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
Always prioritize your health and well-being by adhering to proper guidelines for supplement use and seeking professional guidance when needed.
Read more:
- 15 Best Hair Growth Products In UK To Buy In 2023
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