You should know that the connection between creatine supplementation and hair loss is still a subject of debate and research. What about the creatine hair loss myth?
One study found that creatine supplementation is associated with an increase in DHT, a hormone that can contribute to hair loss. Yet, the link between creatine and hair loss is still not well-established, and there is limited scientific evidence supporting a direct connection.
So, what do we really know about creatine’s side effects on hair? Does creatine cause hair loss or not?
Here is some key information about creatine and hair loss from the article:
- NOT ENOUGH RESEARCH SUPPORTS THE ARGUMENT THAT CREATINE SUPPLEMENTATION RESULTS IN HAIR LOSS
- CREATINE IS GENERALLY CONSIDERED SAFE WHEN TAKEN IN RECOMMENDED DOSES
- DIRECT CONNECTION BETWEEN CREATINE AND DHT (DIHYDROTESTOSTERONE) IS NOT SUPPORTED BY ENOUGH STUDIES
- THERE ARE MANY USEFUL TIPS AND TRICKS TO PREVENT HAIR LOSS
Does Creatine Actually Cause Hair Loss?
Creatine might cause hair loss in case you are genetically predisposed. In this case, creatine supplementation can trigger your male pattern baldness.
Some research suggests that creatine can increase DHT levels. Also known as dihydrotestosterone, this hormone is typically associated with male pattern baldness. If you experience a genetic male pattern hair loss, consuming creatine may accelerate the balding process by increasing DHT levels.
So, can we say that among creatine’s side effects is hair loss? Well, the idea that the effects of creatine supplementation will cause hair loss is not supported by enough scientific evidence. Meaning, that if you don’t have a genetic predisposition, there is only anecdotal evidence that you will experience hair loss.
What Does Creatine Do to Your Body?
Creatine is already produced in our bodies. The synthesis happens through two organs: the liver and the kidney. The liver produces the creatine and the other needed elements for synthesis are produced in the kidney. Taking creatine supplements increases the amount of creatine you already have.
Another hormone that is produced in the liver is DHT. One study shows that creatine supplementation can indirectly increase the conversion of testosterone to DHT. Increased DHT and hormone disruption lead to hair loss.
Can Hair Loss Be Linked to Kidney Dysfunction?
If you have an existing liver and kidney problem, using creatine is not safe for you and if you consume too much creatine, because of liver function, you may experience hair loss.
The suggested amount of creatine (5 mg) does not affect the kidneys badly for those who have a healthy kidney. However, if you are prone to kidney disease, taking creatine may lead to kidney dysfunction.
Kidney dysfunction is either directly or indirectly related to some health problems which can lead to hair loss. These problems are:
- Imbalances in nutrients and minerals
- Anemia
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
People with kidney disease often take certain medications, which can have potential side effects, including hair loss. Among such medications are immunosuppressants and blood pressure drugs.
Does Dehydration Affect Hair Loss During Your Creatine Intake Period?
Water cleanses the liver. That’s why consuming more water during creatine intake is very important.
Dehydration also might affect liver function. Normally the average amount of water a person needs to consume is 2 liters (67.6 oz). When taking creatine you need to consume additional 250-500 ml of water for every 5 grams of creatine you take.
During creatine supplementation, dehydration will exhaust the liver and the kidneys and this will indirectly lead to hair loss.
Hair follicles already need a constant supply of nutrients and moisture. They need it to function properly.
Dehydration can reduce the blood flow to your scalp. As a result, weaker hair follicles can start shedding.
How Does Creatine Increase DHT?
According to one study from 2009, creatine supplementation might partially act through an increased rate of conversion of testosterone to DHT. Yet, there is still not enough strong evidence to support that. The relationship between creatine and DHT is still not fully understood.
The strongest point of the study was the creatine synthesis and the function of the liver and kidney. As the synthesis happens in the liver and the kidneys and the DHT hormone is produced in the liver, the study showed an indirect relation.
How Much Does Creatine Increase DHT?
In the rugby team players’ study levels of DHT increased by 56% after 7 days of creatine supplementation. They stayed at 40% above baseline after 14 days of creatine usage.
Some believe that creatine may increase the activity of enzymes like 5-alpha reductase. It handles converting testosterone into DHT. Yet, this theory is not universally accepted.
There is limited research examining the direct relationship between creatine supplementation and DHT. Responses to creatine supplements vary. Some people can experience hormonal imbalances, while others may not see any significant changes.
How Does DHT Increase Affect Hair Growth Cycle?
DHT, derived from testosterone, plays a major role in hair growth and loss. It happens especially if you have a genetic predisposition to male pattern baldness.
There are several ways in which DHT can affect the hair growth, and they include:
- MINIATURISATION OF HAIR FOLLICLES
- SHORTENING OF THE ANAGEN (GROWTH) PHASE, WHICH LEADS TO SHORTER AND THINNER HAIR
- INCREASED NUMBER OF HAIR ENTERING THE TELOGEN PHASE AT THE SAME TIME, RESULTING IN SHEDDING AND THINNING
- PATTERN BALDNESS ASSOCIATED WITH ANDROGENETIC ALOPECIA (MALE-PATTERN BALDNESS)
- GENETICAL PREDISPOSITIONS TO BE MORE SENSITIVE TO DHT
Is The Hair Loss Permanent After Creatine Intake?
It depends. If you have a genetic condition for hair shedding, then creatine consumption may result in permanent hair loss.
If you do not have a gene responsible for male pattern baldness, hair shedding will only affect the hair that was supposed to fall out anyway. For this reason, your hair loss will only be temporary.
If hair loss is potentially caused by creatine, shedding typically starts approximately two months after starting the supplement. So, if creatine is causing hair thinning or loss, hair will regrow once you stop taking it.
Can Hair Transplant Help with Creatine Hair Loss?
Hair transplantation addresses hair loss caused by genetic factors.
If you suspect that your hair loss is related to creatine supplementation, make a consultation with your doctor. They may suggest other treatments and recommend you stop creatine supplementation.
In case you are genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness, they may suggest and discuss hair transplantation with you.
What to Use to Prevent Hair Loss
Hair loss is common, especially in older adults. So far the most typical cause of hair loss is genetics. Yet, you may try to prevent hair loss to some extent.
Preventing hair loss may include lifestyle changes, gentle hair care, and sometimes medical treatments. Here are some useful strategies to take into consideration when it comes to your hair health and scalp health:
- A DIET RICH IN PROTEINS, VITAMINS, ESPECIALLY BIOTIN AND VITAMIN D, AS WELL AS MINERALS
- DELICATE SHAMPOOS, CONDITIONERS, AND GENTLE MASSAGES FOR YOUR SCALP CARE
- PROPER HAIR COMBING AND BRUSHING, AVOIDING TIGHT HAIRSTYLES
- AVOIDING HEAT AND CHEMICALS ON YOUR HAIR
- PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS SUCH AS MINOXIDIL OR FINASTERIDE
- MEDICAL TREATMENTS IN CASE OF UNDERLYING MEDICAL CONDITIONS LIKE THYROID ISSUES
If you are concerned about your hair loss, talk to your dermatologist for more guidance about your symptoms and potential treatment.
Does Creatine Cause Beard Growth?
Since DHT and creatine are related, there is a misconception that creatine promotes facial hair, although there are no scientific studies to support this idea. Especially when it comes to facial hair, creatine won’t promote beard growth.
However, you can consider an alternative treatment, such as a beard transplant.
References:
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