The popularity of creatine continues to grow as more people are looking to maximise the results of their workouts with supplements. When it comes to creatine, however, many ask, ‘Does creatine cause hair loss?’ worried that their gains will come with side effects that are detrimental to hair growth.
In this Hairburst guide, we’ll debunk myths about creatine and hair loss and address fears surrounding the supplement. So, keep reading for Hairburst’s science-backed insights on the debate.
What is Creatine?
Creatine is a dietary supplement often taken by gymgoers looking to improve performance and build muscle strength. While the compound can be found in proteins like red meat and fish, many enjoy protein in a powdered form, mixed with water, milk, or even smoothie blends.
Creatine works to help users maintain their energy supply while working out by accelerating ATP regeneration. It also speeds up muscle recovery, so people can return to their workouts sooner than before.
Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?
The side effects of creatine are widely discussed amongst the gym community, with many fearful that creatine can cause hair loss or even kidney damage. However, creatine is widely considered safe, with the only key side effect being temporary water retention. So, where did the myth begin?
A 2009 study argued that creatine increased the body’s production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone famously known to encourage hair loss. This study, however, only found a temporary rise in DHT and didn’t actually monitor hair loss. Since then, several studies have found absolutely no link between creatine and hair loss.
How Does Hair Loss Work?
Let’s talk about how DHT can cause thinning hair in men and hormonal hair loss in women.
A byproduct of testosterone, DHT often results in hair loss by shrinking hair follicles and shortening their growth phase. For men, many are genetically predisposed to hair loss, with sensitivity to DHT often hereditary, manifesting as thinning at the crown or along the hairline. As for women, DHT-related hair loss can begin during menopause as estrogen levels begin to drop.
It’s important to note that if you’re not genetically predisposed to hair loss, a small and temporary spike in DHT from creatine usage is not likely to cause hair loss.
How to Reduce Hair Loss with Hairburst
A number of factors can cause hair loss. So, if you’ve noticed a significant change in hair density, you may be looking for hair loss solutions that strengthen your hair. The first step in addressing hair loss, however, is understanding why.
Whether you’re dealing with stress hair loss, postpartum hair loss, or hormonal hair loss, Hairburst boasts a selection of products that strive to make you feel confident in your hair again.
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Shampoo and conditioner: Hairburst’s selection of shampoos and conditioners encourages people to elevate their hair care routine, with science-backed products that nourish the scalp with every single wash. You’re going to be washing your hair anyway, so why not use products designed to maintain your hair’s health?
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Hair treatments: If you’re looking to give your hair that extra level of TLC, our hair treatments deeply repair and protect the hair from the root to the tip. Take one of our best hair products, for example - the Advanced+ Hair Formula.
Hair Vitamins: Reduce hair loss from the inside out with Hairburst’s empowering hair vitamins. These vitamins deliver essential vitamins and nutrients directly into your system, promoting fuller, healthier hair growth.
Order Hairburst Products Online Today
So, does creatine cause hair loss? Our verdict is that it’s safe as far as your scalp is concerned. If you’re experiencing hair loss while using creatine, the chances are that other factors are at play. Instead, we’d recommend shifting your focus to your scalp health or other lifestyle factors that may be impacting hair fullness.
Consider introducing some of Hairburst’s best hair products to your haircare routine today to support healthy hair growth. Explore our science-backed collection online today.