Discover the Truth Behind Hair Loss When Using Creatine: What Does Science Say?

Creatine is one of the most popular supplements in the world, known for its muscle-building benefits and athletic performance support. Yet, one persistent myth persists: does creatine cause hair loss ? Let’s explore this question by reviewing scientific findings and separating fact from fiction. Plus, we’ll explain why Faunus Nutrition’s creatine (made from Creapure®) is the best choice for those seeking the highest quality creatine.

What is Creatine and How Does it Work?

Creatine is a natural substance, produced by the liver and kidneys, that supplies energy to muscles. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts use creatine to improve strength, muscle mass and recovery. The most researched and effective form is creatine monohydrate – the variant we offer at Faunus with Creapure® from Germany, known as the purest and best tested creatine worldwide.

Creatine for Seniors and the Medical Sector

In addition to its benefits for athletes, creatine can also play an important role in supporting older adults. As we age, we gradually lose muscle mass and strength, which can lead to reduced mobility and even falls. However, research shows that creatine, when combined with strength training, helps slow the decline in muscle mass and improve muscle strength, which is essential for overall health and independence in old age.

Additionally, creatine may offer benefits for cognitive function in older adults. Some studies suggest that the supplement may support mental clarity and concentration, contributing to a better quality of life and possibly playing a preventive role in cognitive decline.

Within the medical field, creatine is also being studied as a support for conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS and Parkinson’s. Creatine may have a positive effect on muscle function and strength, which is crucial for patients with these conditions. While more research is needed, creatine offers hope as an adjunct to treatments aimed at maintaining muscle function and quality of life.

Myth: Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?

The origin of this myth comes from a single study that measured elevated DHT (dihydrotestosterone) levels in men taking creatine. Since DHT is associated with genetic hair loss in men , the conclusion was drawn that creatine may be causing hair loss. However, as multiple studies have since shown, there is no direct link between creatine use and hair loss . Researchers such as Antonio et al. (2021) have emphasized that there is no scientific evidence that creatine causes hair loss.

What does the science say? According to Antonio and colleagues’ comprehensive review published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition , there is no evidence that creatine directly causes hair loss or elevated DHT levels. No side effects related to hair loss have been reported with long-term creatine use.

Other Frequently Asked Questions About Creatine

In addition to hair loss, there are other common questions and misconceptions about creatine. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

1. Does Creatine Cause Water Retention? Yes and no. Creatine can initially cause water retention in muscle cells , but this effect usually stabilizes with long-term use without leading to swelling.

2. Is Creatine an Anabolic Steroid? No, creatine has a completely different chemical structure than anabolic steroids and does not increase testosterone levels.

3. Harmful to the Kidneys? Research by Antonio et al. and Forbes et al. has shown that creatine, when used in recommended dosages, has no negative impact on healthy kidneys.

4. Safe for Seniors? Absolutely! Creatine may actually provide benefits, such as improved muscle mass and strength, especially when combined with exercise.

5. Is Creatine Only for Men? No, creatine also offers benefits for women and is used safely by both male and female athletes worldwide.

Why Faunus Nutrition's Creapure® Creatine is the Best Choice

At Faunus Nutrition we offer Creapure® creatine monohydrate, the only creatine from European manufacturers . Creapure® is produced in Germany and undergoes strict quality controls to ensure a pure, safe and effective creatine. This makes our creatine ideal for those looking for reliable and high-quality creatine without impurities .

Conclusion: Creatine and Hair Loss – What Does Science Say?

The myth that creatine causes hair loss is not supported by science. Antonio et al. (2021) emphasize in their study that creatine does not lead to increased DHT levels and therefore does not cause hair loss.

For those looking for a safe and effective way to improve muscle strength and mass, without worrying about hair loss, creatine is an excellent choice. And with Faunus Nutrition's Creapure® creatine, you can be confident that you are using the highest quality creatine, which has been extensively tested and comes from the best producer in Europe.

So, is creatine safe? Absolutely!

Sources

• Antonio, J., Candow, D.G., Forbes, S.C., Gualano, B., Jagim, A.R., Kreider, R.B., Rawson, E.R., Smith-Ryan, A.E., VanDusseldorp, T.A., Willoughby, D.S., & Ziegenfuss, T.M. (2021). Common questions and misconceptions about creatine supplementation: what does the scientific evidence really show? Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 18, 13. https : //doi.org /10.1186 /s12970 -021 -00412 -w

• de Guingand, D., Palmer, K. R., Bilardi, J. E., & Ellery, S. J. (2020). Acceptability of dietary or nutritional supplementation in pregnancy (ADONS) – Exploring the consumer's perspective on introducing creatine monohydrate as a pregnancy supplement. Midwifery, 82 , 102599. https : //doi.org /10.1016 /j.midw.2019.102599

• Forbes, S.C., Candow, DG, Ostojic, S.M., Roberts, M.D., & Chilibeck, P.D. (2021). Meta-Analysis Examining the Importance of Creatine Ingestion Strategies on Lean Tissue Mass and Strength in Older Adults. Nutrients, 13(6), 1912. https ://doi .org /10.3390 /nu13061912

• Muccini, A. M., Tran, N. T., de Guingand, D. L., Philip, M., Della Gatta, P. A., Galinsky, R., Sherman, L. S., Kelleher, M. A., Palmer, KR, Berry, M. J., Walker, D. W., Snow, R. J., & Ellery, S. J. (2021). Creatine Metabolism in Female Reproduction, Pregnancy and Newborn Health. Nutrients, 13, 490. https : //doi.org /10.3390 /nu13020490