Does Pre-Workout Cause Hair Loss? (According to a Doctor)

No, pre-workouts do not cause hair loss. Claims suggesting otherwise lack concrete scientific backing, as no study has proven direct causation between pre-workout supplements and male pattern baldness.

In my clinical practice, I've treated numerous fitness enthusiasts using pre-workout supplements without observing any direct correlation between these supplements and hair loss. Some ingredients, like caffeine and certain B vitamins, may actually help prevent hair loss.

“Male pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss in men. Hair at the temples and on the crown slowly thin and eventually disappear.”

- Tim Newman, Medical News Today

Now, to properly answer the question of whether pre-workouts cause loss of hair, let’s examine some common ingredients that you'll likely find in a pre-workout supplement:

• Caffeine
• Creatine Monohydrate
• BCAAs
• B-Vitamins
• Nitric Oxide precursors

Now, let's explore each ingredient in detail.

Caffeine is highlighted for enhancing physical and mental performance, improving focus and energy levels during workouts. While excessive use can cause jitters, anxiety, and insomnia, it doesn't contribute to hair loss [1].

Research Findings: A 2007 study in the International Journal of Dermatology found that caffeine actually promotes hair growth by blocking dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for hair loss [2].

The stimulant prolonged the anagen hair growth phase and promoted hair shaft elongation, resulting in broader, longer hair roots in both males and females.

Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)

Claims suggest high BCAA doses combined with exercise may increase testosterone levels, potentially impacting hair negatively. However, research in the First International Journal of Andrology found that testosterone production increases are independent of amino acids’ supplementation [3].

Clinical Observation: Patients consuming BCAAs show no signs of accelerated hair loss, aligning with the lack of scientific evidence connecting BCAAs to baldness.

Despite claims that creatine stimulates testosterone production, studies in the National Library of Medicine prove that even without strength training, creatine does not impact testosterone levels [4].

Clinical Experience: Patients report significant benefits from creatine for energy and muscle growth without any correlation to increased male pattern baldness.

B-vitamins

B vitamin deficiency, particularly B7 (biotin) and B12, has been linked to hair loss. However, using pre-workout supplements containing B vitamins doesn't cause hair loss - quite the opposite.

Research Evidence: The National Institutes of Health identifies only specific B vitamin deficiencies as hair loss contributors [5]:

• Riboflavin (B2)
• Biotin (B7)
• Folate (B9)
• Vitamin B12

While B12 deficiency may contribute to hair loss, supplementation doesn't necessarily boost hair growth. However, biotin supplementation benefits those with deficiencies [6].

On the other hand, research published by the National Library of Medicine has shown that supplemental biotin (B7) may be beneficial, but only in people with a deficiency [7].

Too much DHT often leads to:

• Hair loss
• Enlarged prostate
• Acne
• Increased sweating
• High blood pressure

Early detection allows for effective treatment interventions.

Reducing DHT Levels

When diagnosing patients with high DHT levels, I prescribe medications like finasteride and recommend dietary changes. These interventions often yield positive hair health outcmes, with studies in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology showing hair loss reversal potential [13].

Natural DHT Blockers:

• Spinach
• Kale
• Banana
• Green tea
• Flax seeds