Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Creatine: More Than Just Muscle Fuel
3. The Origin of the Hair Loss Concern: The DHT Hypothesis
4. Dispelling the Myth: What Modern Science Says
5. Creatine's Broader Wellness Benefits
6. Beyond Creatine: Holistic Approaches to Hair Health
7. Choosing Your Supplements Wisely: The BUBS Naturals Difference
8. Integrating Creatine into Your Wellness Routine
9. The BUBS Naturals Commitment: Adventure, Wellness, and Giving Back
10. Conclusion
11. FAQ

Introduction

In the vibrant world of fitness and wellness, certain supplements rise to prominence, celebrated for their ability to support strength, endurance, and overall vitality. Among these, creatine monohydrate stands out as a highly researched and widely used compound, revered by athletes and active individuals alike. But alongside its well-documented benefits for physical performance, a persistent question often surfaces, sparking curiosity and sometimes concern: does creatine help hair grow, or could it potentially contribute to hair loss? This intriguing intersection of performance nutrition and personal well-being merits a closer look, moving beyond speculation to uncover the science.

The conversation around creatine and hair health gained significant traction following a particular study, leading many to pause and reconsider their supplement choices. However, as with any nuanced topic in health, the full picture is often more complex than initial headlines suggest. At BUBS Naturals, we believe in a no-BS approach, offering clean, science-backed supplements that genuinely support your adventures and wellness goals. Our commitment, inspired by the enduring legacy of Glen “BUB” Doherty, extends to providing accurate, comprehensive information so you can make informed decisions. In this post, we’ll dive deep into what creatine is, explore the scientific evidence surrounding its relationship with hair health, and contextualize these findings within a broader understanding of overall wellness. Our aim is to clarify misconceptions and empower you with the knowledge to pursue your active lifestyle with confidence, ensuring you understand exactly how supplements like our Creatine Monohydrate fit into a balanced routine.

Understanding Creatine: More Than Just Muscle Fuel

Creatine is a naturally occurring organic compound synthesized in the body from amino acids—arginine, glycine, and methionine—primarily in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. While we obtain some creatine from our diet, mainly through red meat and fish, our body also produces it. Its primary role in human physiology is to facilitate the rapid regeneration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), often referred to as the body's energy currency. During high-intensity, short-duration activities like weightlifting or sprinting, ATP is quickly depleted. Creatine, stored as phosphocreatine in muscle cells, donates a phosphate group to adenosine diphosphate (ADP), swiftly converting it back into ATP, thereby providing a quick burst of energy to sustain muscular contractions.

This fundamental mechanism explains why creatine is a cornerstone supplement for those looking to enhance athletic performance. Regular supplementation with a high-quality product like our Creatine Monohydrate can lead to increased muscle strength, power output, and improved exercise performance. It supports the capacity to perform more repetitions, lift heavier weights, and recover more efficiently between sets. Beyond these immediate effects on physical exertion, creatine also contributes to muscle growth by increasing cell volumization—drawing water into muscle cells—and potentially stimulating protein synthesis. This makes it an invaluable tool not just for elite athletes, but for anyone looking to optimize their fitness journey and build a more resilient body.

At BUBS Naturals, we understand the importance of fueling your body with the best. That’s why our Creatine Monohydrate is a clean, single-ingredient formula, rigorously tested for purity and potency. We believe in providing only what you need, without unnecessary fillers, to help you perform at your best, reflecting our "no-BS" commitment to quality and effectiveness. The profound impact of creatine on energy metabolism underscores its significance, not just as a performance enhancer, but as a foundational nutrient for active individuals seeking to maximize their physical potential and support their overall wellness.

The Origin of the Hair Loss Concern: The DHT Hypothesis

The link between creatine supplementation and hair loss primarily stems from a single, widely referenced study published in 2009. This research, conducted on a group of male rugby players, investigated the effects of creatine monohydrate supplementation on the ratio of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to testosterone. Participants underwent a seven-day creatine loading phase (25g/day creatine with glucose) followed by a 14-day maintenance phase (5g/day creatine with glucose). The study reported that serum DHT levels increased by 56% after the loading phase and remained 40% above baseline during the maintenance phase. The DHT:T ratio also saw significant increases.

For those concerned about hair loss, these findings immediately raised a red flag. DHT is a potent androgen derived from testosterone, and it plays a well-established role in androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness. In individuals genetically predisposed to this condition, DHT can bind to androgen receptors in susceptible hair follicles on the scalp. This binding can cause the follicles to miniaturize, shrink, and eventually lead to a shorter hair growth cycle, resulting in thinner, weaker hairs that ultimately stop growing. Therefore, any substance perceived to increase DHT levels naturally sparks concern among individuals predisposed to or experiencing hair thinning.

However, it's crucial to examine the 2009 study with a critical lens. While the observed increase in DHT was statistically significant, the study had several limitations. Firstly, it involved a small sample size of only 20 participants, which can make it difficult to generalize the findings to a broader population. Secondly, while DHT levels increased, they reportedly remained within the normal physiological range for healthy adult males. The study also noted no change in total testosterone levels, and free testosterone was not measured. Furthermore, the baseline DHT levels in the control group were notably lower than the creatine group to begin with, which could have influenced the observed changes.

The concern that this single study ignited has resonated across fitness communities for over a decade. It became the primary piece of evidence fueling the "creatine causes hair loss" narrative. However, sound scientific inquiry demands replication of results and a broader body of evidence to confirm any causation. The speculation, though understandable given DHT's known role in hair thinning, requires careful scrutiny against subsequent research to establish a comprehensive understanding. As we continue to uphold our commitment to science-backed information at BUBS Naturals, it's vital to differentiate between an initial observation and a well-established scientific consensus.

Dispelling the Myth: What Modern Science Says

Since the 2009 rugby study, numerous researchers have sought to replicate its findings and further investigate the relationship between creatine supplementation and androgen levels, particularly DHT. The overwhelming consensus from subsequent studies has largely failed to confirm the initial observation of a significant increase in DHT levels attributable to creatine. Many studies have found no significant changes in total testosterone, free testosterone, or DHT levels in response to creatine supplementation. In cases where minor increases were observed, these levels consistently remained within normal physiological ranges and were not associated with adverse effects on hair.

A recent and particularly significant development in this area is a 2025 randomized controlled trial, the first to directly assess hair follicle health following creatine supplementation. This rigorous 12-week study, involving 38 resistance-trained males, aimed to determine the effects of daily creatine monohydrate (5g/day) versus a placebo on androgen levels and, critically, on various measures of hair follicle health using advanced assessment systems. The findings were clear and provided strong evidence against the claim that creatine contributes to hair loss. Researchers observed no significant differences in DHT levels, the DHT-to-testosterone ratio, or any hair growth parameters (including hair density, follicular unit count, and cumulative hair thickness) between the creatine and placebo groups. This study fills a crucial gap in the literature by directly examining hair health, rather than just hormonal markers, offering a comprehensive and reassuring conclusion.

The implication of this modern research is profound: the long-standing concern linking creatine to hair loss, primarily based on a single, unreplicated study, appears unfounded. While anecdotal reports of hair loss coincident with creatine use might occur, current scientific evidence suggests that creatine itself is not the direct cause. Hair loss is a complex issue influenced by a myriad of factors, including genetics, stress, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and underlying medical conditions. Attributing it solely to creatine, without considering these broader influences, would be an oversimplification.

At BUBS Naturals, we are committed to providing you with supplements that are not only effective but also backed by robust science. Our Creatine Monohydrate is a testament to this philosophy, delivering pure, high-quality support for your strength and performance goals without the unsubstantiated concerns. We prioritize transparency and empower our community to make choices grounded in reliable data, ensuring that your pursuit of wellness is supported by truth and integrity.

Creatine's Broader Wellness Benefits

Beyond its widely celebrated role in supporting athletic performance, creatine offers a spectrum of benefits that extend to overall wellness, reinforcing its status as a multifaceted supplement. Its fundamental mechanism of enhancing ATP production—the cellular energy currency—has far-reaching implications across various physiological systems. While often associated with skeletal muscle, creatine is also vital for other high-energy demand tissues, including the brain and heart.

For cognitive function, creatine supplementation has shown promise in supporting mental clarity and brain health. Research suggests it may help improve short-term memory and reasoning skills, particularly in situations of stress, sleep deprivation, or in specific populations with lower creatine stores, such as vegetarians. By ensuring optimal energy supply to brain cells, creatine helps maintain neuronal function and may contribute to sustained cognitive performance throughout your day, whether you're tackling a challenging work project or navigating a busy adventure. This boost in brain energy can be especially valuable for those leading demanding, active lifestyles, aligning perfectly with the spirit of adventure we champion at BUBS Naturals.

Moreover, creatine's ability to support cellular energy extends to general vitality. Adequate creatine levels contribute to overall energy metabolism, potentially helping to reduce fatigue and support the body's natural resilience. This can be particularly beneficial for recovery, not just from intense workouts, but from the everyday demands of an active life. Supporting cellular energy means supporting the body's capacity to repair, rejuvenate, and maintain optimal function across the board.

It's also worth noting that while the primary mode of creatine consumption for performance is oral supplementation, there is emerging research into its topical applications for skin and hair health. Studies suggest that creatine, when applied topically, can penetrate the skin, contributing to cellular energy revitalization, reducing cellular stress from oxidative and UV damage, and supporting skin protection and moisturization. This "cell energizing" effect has been linked to increased cell vitality and protein synthesis, including collagen, potentially leading to improved skin firmness and a reduction in the appearance of aging. While these topical benefits are still an area of active research, they hint at the compound's broader biological significance beyond just muscle and brain.

At BUBS Naturals, our commitment to supporting your holistic wellness journey means offering products like our Creatine Monohydrate that contribute to your vitality from multiple angles. We believe in harnessing the power of clean, functional ingredients to help you live a life of adventure and purpose, feeling your best from the inside out. For a comprehensive approach to foundational wellness, consider pairing your creatine with other supportive supplements like our Collagen Peptides, which naturally support skin, hair, nail, and joint health, or exploring our Boosts Collection for other targeted support like Vitamin C, essential for collagen formation and antioxidant activity.

Beyond Creatine: Holistic Approaches to Hair Health

While we’ve established that creatine does not appear to cause hair loss based on current scientific evidence, maintaining healthy hair involves a multi-faceted approach. Just like overall wellness, hair health is a reflection of various internal and external factors. Understanding these elements can empower you to adopt holistic practices that truly support luscious, strong locks.

One of the most critical factors is nutrition. Your hair follicles are highly active metabolic units that require a consistent supply of nutrients to produce strong, healthy strands. A diet rich in protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals is paramount. Specifically:

• Protein: Hair is primarily made of a protein called keratin. Adequate protein intake is vital for hair growth and strength. Look for lean meats, fish, eggs, and plant-based protein sources.
• Vitamins and Minerals:
  • Biotin (Vitamin B7): Known for its role in keratin infrastructure, biotin is often touted for hair, skin, and nail health.
  • Vitamin D: Research suggests a link between Vitamin D deficiency and hair loss.
  • Iron: Iron deficiency (anemia) is a common cause of hair loss, particularly in women.
  • Zinc: Plays a crucial role in hair tissue growth and repair.
  • Vitamin C: An essential antioxidant, Vitamin C is also vital for the production of collagen, a structural protein found in hair. We offer a high-quality Vitamin C supplement, making it easy to support your body's natural collagen formation.
• Essential Fatty Acids: Omega-3s found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts contribute to scalp health and hair sheen.

Hydration is another often-overlooked component. Just as your body needs sufficient water to function optimally, so do your hair cells. Dehydration can lead to dry, brittle hair that is more prone to breakage. Ensuring you drink enough water throughout the day, especially when active, is fundamental. Our Hydration Collection offers delicious, sugar-free electrolyte blends like Hydrate or Die – Lemon and Hydrate or Die – Mixed Berry to support fast, effective rehydration and muscle function, which is critical for an adventurous lifestyle and overall cellular health.

Stress management also plays a significant role. Chronic stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding. Incorporating stress-reducing practices like mindfulness, exercise, or sufficient sleep can greatly benefit hair health. Moreover, genetics are a primary determinant of hair type, growth patterns, and susceptibility to conditions like androgenetic alopecia. While you can't change your genes, understanding your predisposition can help you make proactive choices.

Finally, proper hair care practices are essential. Gentle washing, avoiding excessive heat styling, and using appropriate hair products can prevent damage and maintain hair integrity. At BUBS Naturals, we focus on providing foundational wellness support that complements these practices. Our Collagen Peptides, for instance, are a fantastic addition to support your body's natural collagen production, which is a building block for healthy hair, skin, and nails. By addressing these various aspects of health, you can cultivate an environment where your hair can thrive, supporting your overall vibrant and adventurous life.

Choosing Your Supplements Wisely: The BUBS Naturals Difference

In a crowded market brimming with wellness products, making informed decisions about what you put into your body is more crucial than ever. The efficacy and safety of any supplement hinge on its quality, purity, and the transparency of its sourcing and manufacturing. This is where the BUBS Naturals difference truly shines, guided by our unwavering commitment to clean, functional, and science-backed supplements. We believe that supporting your body’s natural functions shouldn't come with a side of questionable ingredients or unverified claims.

Our "no-BS" approach means we meticulously select only the highest quality, natural ingredients. Take our Creatine Monohydrate as a prime example. It’s a single-ingredient supplement, free from unnecessary fillers, artificial flavors, or sweeteners. We understand that for those leading active lives, every ingredient matters. You deserve to know that what you're consuming is pure, effective, and supports your body as intended.

A cornerstone of our quality assurance is third-party testing and certifications, most notably our NSF Certified for Sport® status. This rigorous certification program ensures that our products are tested for over 270 banned substances, verifying ingredient integrity and guaranteeing that what's on the label is precisely what's in the product, and nothing more. This commitment to purity and safety is paramount for athletes and anyone who prioritizes clean living, offering an unparalleled level of confidence and peace of mind. It means you can focus on your performance and wellness goals, trusting that your supplements are working for you, without unwanted surprises.

Our dedication to quality is woven into the fabric of BUBS Naturals, reflecting the straightforward, honest nature of Glen “BUB” Doherty, whose legacy inspires us. We craft our products to support active lifestyles, ensuring they mix effortlessly into your daily routine—whether it's a post-workout shake or your morning coffee with an MCT Oil Creamer – 10 oz Tub.

Choosing BUBS Naturals means opting for supplements that are:

• Clean: Simple, natural ingredients, no artificial additives.
• Functional: Designed to effectively support your body’s natural processes and performance goals.
• Science-Backed: Formulated based on robust scientific understanding, ensuring tangible benefits.
• Transparent: What you see is what you get, with comprehensive testing for purity and safety.

When considering a supplement like Creatine Monohydrate, or any other product from our diverse portfolio, you're not just investing in your wellness; you're choosing a brand that stands for integrity and impact. Every purchase not only fuels your adventure but also contributes to a greater purpose, as we proudly donate 10% of all profits to veteran-focused charities in honor of BUB. This commitment to giving back is as integral to our brand as the quality of our products, making your wellness journey a part of something larger and more meaningful.

Integrating Creatine into Your Wellness Routine

Embracing creatine as part of your daily wellness regimen is a straightforward process, designed to seamlessly fit into even the most dynamic and adventurous lifestyles. The beauty of a clean, unflavored supplement like our Creatine Monohydrate lies in its versatility and ease of use, upholding our "one scoop, feel the difference" philosophy.

For most active individuals, a daily dose of 3-5 grams of Creatine Monohydrate is generally recommended to effectively increase muscle creatine stores. While some individuals opt for a "loading phase" (higher doses for a short period) to saturate muscles quickly, consistent daily supplementation at the recommended dose achieves the same benefits over a slightly longer timeframe. The key is consistency, ensuring your muscles consistently have the creatine they need to support ATP regeneration.

One of the most appealing aspects of Creatine Monohydrate is its neutral taste and excellent mixability. You can effortlessly blend one scoop into virtually any beverage without altering its flavor. Consider adding it to your:

• Morning Coffee: Elevate your morning ritual by stirring it into your coffee, perhaps alongside our MCT Oil Creamer – 10 oz Tub or Butter MCT Oil Creamer – 10 oz Tub for sustained energy and mental clarity. Our Creamers Collection offers convenient options for home or on-the-go with travel packs like the MCT Oil Creamer – 14 ct Travel Pack.
• Post-Workout Shake: Combine it with your protein shake after a strenuous workout to support muscle recovery and replenishment.
• Water or Juice: A simple, refreshing way to consume your daily dose anytime.
• Smoothies: A perfect addition to your favorite blend of fruits and vegetables.

The timing of your creatine intake is less critical than consistency. While some prefer to take it pre- or post-workout, taking it at any time of day will contribute to saturating your muscle stores over time. The most important thing is to make it a habit that works for you. Remember to also maintain adequate hydration, especially when supplementing with creatine, as it draws water into muscle cells. Our Hydrate or Die – Bundle offers a great way to stay well-hydrated and support muscle function, particularly if you’re engaged in intense physical activity.

At BUBS Naturals, we design our products to fit seamlessly into your active life, supporting your performance and wellness goals with minimal fuss. Integrating Creatine Monohydrate into your daily routine is a simple yet powerful step towards enhancing your strength, power, and overall training performance, allowing you to conquer every adventure that comes your way.

The BUBS Naturals Commitment: Adventure, Wellness, and Giving Back

At BUBS Naturals, our journey is rooted in a profound commitment to a life of adventure, wellness, and purpose. This commitment is not just a marketing slogan; it's the very foundation of who we are, inspired by the indomitable spirit and unwavering integrity of Glen "BUB" Doherty. BUB was a man who lived life to the fullest, embracing every challenge with courage and a deep dedication to his country and comrades. His legacy fuels our mission to bring you supplements that are as honest and reliable as he was.

We believe that true wellness is about empowering your body and mind to meet the demands of an active life, whether that's summiting a mountain, excelling in your daily workout, or simply navigating the bustling pace of modern living with sustained energy and focus. That's why every product we offer, from our foundational Collagen Peptides Collection to our targeted Boosts Collection like Creatine Monohydrate and Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies for digestive support, is crafted with the highest standards of purity and functionality. Our ingredients are clean, natural, and rigorously tested, with many products being NSF Certified for Sport®, ensuring you receive nothing but the best—no compromises, no BS. This commitment to quality isn't just about efficacy; it's about trust and empowering you to make choices that truly support your body's natural functions and long-term health.

But our purpose extends beyond providing exceptional supplements. A core tenet of BUBS Naturals, and a direct reflection of BUB’s selfless nature, is our 10% Rule. We proudly pledge to donate 10% of all profits to veteran-focused charities. This unwavering dedication allows us to honor BUB’s memory and support the courageous men and women who have served our nation. When you choose BUBS Naturals, you're not just fueling your own wellness journey; you're becoming a part of a larger movement that gives back, supporting those who have sacrificed so much. It's a way to transform your personal pursuit of health into a powerful force for good, embodying the spirit of community and mutual support that BUB exemplified.

In every scoop of our Creatine Monohydrate or any other BUBS Naturals product, you're embracing a philosophy that champions bold living, intentional wellness, and meaningful contributions. We believe that by making informed choices about your health, you empower yourself to live a life filled with purpose, ready for any adventure, and capable of making a difference—just like BUB.

Conclusion

The question of whether creatine helps hair grow, or indeed causes hair loss, has been a significant point of discussion in the wellness community. Based on the most current and robust scientific evidence, including recent randomized controlled trials directly assessing hair follicle health, the concern that creatine supplementation leads to hair loss appears to be largely unfounded. While an older study initiated this speculation by noting increases in DHT, subsequent research has not replicated these findings or shown any adverse effects on hair parameters. Creatine remains a safe, effective, and extensively researched supplement, celebrated for its ability to support strength, power, and overall training performance.

At BUBS Naturals, we are dedicated to empowering you with accurate, science-backed information and clean, functional supplements that support your adventurous life and wellness goals. We believe in cutting through the noise with a "no-BS" approach, ensuring that every product, like our premium Creatine Monohydrate, is rigorously tested and certified for purity and potency. Your journey towards optimal wellness and peak performance should be built on trust and reliable knowledge.

For those looking to enhance their athletic performance, support cognitive function, and contribute to overall vitality, Creatine Monohydrate offers a powerful and well-validated solution. We encourage you to focus on a holistic approach to hair health and overall well-being, prioritizing balanced nutrition, adequate hydration, stress management, and consistent, high-quality supplementation.

Ready to fuel your next adventure with confidence? Explore the benefits of clean, science-backed support. Discover how our Creatine Monohydrate can support your strength, power, and training performance, allowing you to push your limits and live a life of purpose. Feel the BUBS difference today.

FAQ

Does creatine directly cause hair loss or baldness?

No, current scientific evidence, including recent comprehensive studies, does not support the claim that creatine directly causes hair loss or baldness. While a 2009 study suggested an increase in DHT (a hormone linked to hair loss) after creatine supplementation, subsequent research has largely failed to replicate these findings or show any significant adverse effects on hair follicle health. Hair loss is a complex issue influenced by genetics, nutrition, stress, and other factors, rather than creatine use.

Can creatine improve hair growth or health?

While creatine is primarily known for its benefits in muscle strength and performance, research into its direct impact on hair growth is limited. However, some studies on topical applications suggest creatine may support cellular energy in skin cells, which could theoretically extend to hair follicles, aiding in vitality and protection. For comprehensive hair health support, we recommend focusing on a holistic approach that includes a nutrient-rich diet and supplements like our Collagen Peptides and Vitamin C, which contribute to the building blocks of healthy hair, skin, and nails.

How much creatine should I take daily for general wellness and performance, and how should I take it?

For general wellness and performance support, a daily dose of 3-5 grams of Creatine Monohydrate is commonly recommended. Consistency is key to saturating muscle stores over time. Our Creatine Monohydrate is unflavored and mixes easily into any beverage, such as water, juice, smoothies, or even your morning coffee with an MCT Oil Creamer – 10 oz Tub. Remember to maintain adequate hydration throughout the day, especially when supplementing with creatine.

What sets BUBS Naturals' Creatine Monohydrate apart from other brands?

Our Creatine Monohydrate embodies the BUBS Naturals commitment to clean, functional, and science-backed wellness. It is a single-ingredient formula, free from artificial additives, and rigorously tested by third parties for purity and potency. Many of our products, including those in our Boosts Collection, are NSF Certified for Sport®, ensuring they are free from banned substances and contain exactly what the label states. Furthermore, every purchase supports our 10% Rule, where we donate a portion of all profits to veteran-focused charities, honoring Glen "BUB" Doherty's legacy.