SARMs & Hair Loss: How to Avoid It (New 2025 Findings)

Part of an authorised SARM clinical trial? Worried SARMs might make you lose your hair? You’re not alone.

Hair loss is one of the most searched concerns among UK-based SARMs clinical trial patients – especially men predisposed to male pattern baldness (MPB). But how real is the risk? Which compounds are most likely to cause shedding? And most importantly, can you prevent it?

In this article, we’ll break it down with facts, mechanisms, and real research – not fearmongering.

Key Takeaways

1. SARMs can trigger hair loss
   While SARMs don’t convert to DHT like steroids, they still activate androgen receptors, including those in scalp hair follicles. This can accelerate hair loss in genetically susceptible users.
2. Genetics play the biggest role
   If you’re predisposed to androgenetic alopecia (MPB), SARMs may speed up or unmask the process – even with “mild” compounds like Ostarine.
3. Some SARMs carry higher risk
   SARMs like RAD‑140, YK‑11, and LGD‑4033 are more commonly linked to shedding. Ostarine and S4 are considered lower risk, but not risk-free.
4. There’s no direct DHT conversion – but AR activation matters
   Hair loss is caused by androgen receptor overactivation, not just DHT itself. SARMs stimulate the same pathway that shrinks hair follicles over time.
5. Research is limited – but mechanistic evidence is solid
   While human trials on SARMs and hair loss are lacking, biological studies confirm that AR agonism can lead to follicle miniaturisation, especially in the scalp.
6. Hair loss isn’t always permanent
   If caught early (and the compound is discontinued), regrowth is possible. But prolonged cycles or high doses can lead to irreversible loss.
7. Prevention strategies exist – but they’re not perfect
   Using lower doses, limiting cycle length, and incorporating topical anti-androgens (like ketoconazole or low-dose finasteride) may help, but can also blunt muscle-building effects.
8. Always weigh the trade-offs
   For those prone to MPB, the muscle gains from SARMs might come at the cost of a receding hairline – a decision that deserves serious thought before starting a cycle.

Can SARMs Cause Hair Loss?

“In the scalp, where androgens have a different mechanism of action, excessive androgen levels cause male‑pattern baldness (alopecia).” PMC
This supports the general biological pathway: androgen/AR → hair follicle mini‑aturisation.

Short answer: Yes, they can – but it’s not guaranteed.
Unlike anabolic steroids, SARMs are selective in their action. But that doesn’t mean they’re completely free from androgenic effects.

Here’s what matters:

• SARMs do not convert to DHT, the hormone directly responsible for male pattern baldness.
• However, some SARMs may still indirectly increase DHT activity, or upregulate androgen-sensitive pathways in hair follicles.
• Individuals genetically prone to androgenic alopecia (AGA) are more likely to notice accelerated shedding – even on “mild” SARMs.

So while SARMs aren’t inherently “hair-killers,” they can trigger or speed up hair loss in susceptible users, especially at high doses or long cycles.

Further reading: Understanding the difference between SARMs & AAS

Which SARMs Are Most Linked to Hair Loss?

Let’s break it down based on receptor activity and anecdotal reports:

Compound	Hair Loss Risk (Relative)	Notes
RAD‑140 (Testolone)	★★★★☆	High potency SARM with strong androgenic binding. Most frequently reported for shedding.
LGD‑4033 (Ligandrol)	★★★☆☆	Strong anabolic, moderate androgenic potential. Some users report thinning.
S4 (Andarine)	★★★☆☆	Binds well to ARs; known for visual sides but also mild shedding in some.
MK‑2866 (Ostarine)	★★☆☆☆	Considered “mild” but still triggers hair loss in DHT-sensitive individuals.
YK‑11	★★★★★	Technically a myostatin inhibitor with androgenic activity – high risk for shedding.

⚠️ Genetics Matter: Some users report zero hair loss even after long cycles. Others shed after just 2 weeks. If MPB runs in your family, proceed with caution.

Further Guidance: SARMS Guide

The Science: How SARMs Might Affect Hair Follicles

“In general, AAS and SARMs enhance muscle growth primarily through androgen receptor (AR) agonism in target tissues.” kjsm.org
This reinforces that SARMs still act on AR, which is key in hair‑loss pathways too.

Hair growth is governed by a cycle of growth (anagen), rest (telogen), and shedding (catagen). Androgens, especially DHT (dihydrotestosterone), shorten the anagen phase and shrink follicles.

Here’s the catch:

• SARMs are non‑aromatising and don’t directly become DHT
• But they activate androgen receptors (ARs) in tissues like muscles, bones… and yes, scalp follicles
• In some people, this triggers the same miniaturisation process seen in steroid-induced hair loss

In other words: SARMs don’t need to convert to DHT to cause shedding – they just need to activate the wrong receptors in the wrong person.

How to Reduce or Avoid Hair Loss on SARMs while part of a authorised trial

Here’s what researchers and experienced users recommend:

1. Start Low, Stay Conservative

• Use the lowest effective dose prescribed to you
• Avoid taking other related SARM compounds, such MK-677

2. Support DHT Balance

• While SARMs don’t convert to DHT, suppressing overall androgenic sensitivity may help
• Some research-only users experiment with:
  • Topical finasteride (minimises systemic impact)
  • Ketoconazole shampoo (anti-DHT scalp support)

Important: DHT blockers may impact results. Blocking androgens too strongly can interfere with SARMs’ anabolic effect.

3. Monitor Shedding & React Early

• Notice sudden increased hair fall after 2-4 weeks? Consider stopping or lowering dose
• Shed hair often returns if caught early

4. Consider Genetics Before You Start

• If you already use minoxidil or finasteride, you’re likely at higher risk
• Think long-term: is faster muscle worth accelerating hair loss?

What If You’ve Already Experienced Shedding?

• Stop the trial participation early and allow hormone levels to stabilise
• Most users see partial or full regrowth if caught quickly
• Consider visiting a dermatologist or trichologist for scalp health support
• Address nutrient deficiencies (especially iron, zinc, biotin) that may worsen shedding

Trial conductor? Help your participants by choosing the best SARM reference standards in the UK

Common side of effects of SARMs in human trials

1. Hormonal Suppression

SARMs suppress the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, reducing testosterone, LH, and FSH. This is one of the most consistently reported effects.

“SARMs suppress endogenous testosterone production through negative feedback on the HPG axis.”
PMID: 37218811
PMCID: PMC10204391

2. Liver Toxicity (Hepatotoxicity)

Oral SARMs have been associated with liver enzyme elevations, cholestatic injury, and in some cases, acute liver failure.

“Drug-induced liver injury secondary to selective androgen receptor modulators is a growing concern in young, otherwise healthy individuals.”
PMID: 35211085
PMCID: PMC8929477

Further reading: SARMs & Liver toxicity

3. Mood Changes and Psychological Effects

Some users report irritability, aggression, mood swings, and anxiety-like symptoms. These may stem from hormonal imbalances or neurological AR activation.

“Psychological disturbances, including aggression and mood changes, have been reported with SARMs use.”
PMID: 25901041
PMCID: PMC6326857

4. Acne and Skin Changes

Due to androgenic receptor stimulation, SARMs can lead to increased sebum production, resulting in acne and oily skin.

“Androgen receptor modulators stimulate sebaceous gland activity, leading to acneiform eruptions.”
PMID: 34471228
PMCID: PMC6326857

5. Lipid Profile Alterations

SARMs have been shown to decrease HDL (“good” cholesterol), which may pose long-term cardiovascular risks.

“Reductions in HDL-C have been observed, raising concerns about long-term cardiovascular safety.”
PMID: 21369352
PMCID: PMC3059852

6. Testicular Shrinkage and Fertility Suppression

Suppression of endogenous testosterone can result in testicular atrophy and lowered sperm parameters.

“Decreased testicular volume and impaired spermatogenesis have been reported in male SARM users.”
PMID: 34471228
PMCID: PMC6326857

7. Visual Disturbances (Compound-Specific)

Notably reported with Andarine (S4), users have described night vision changes and a yellow tint to vision.

“Andarine (S-4) has been associated with reversible vision alterations, attributed to its partial AR agonism in ocular tissues.”
PMID: 19321390

Myth Busting: SARMs & Hair Loss

“SARMs don’t cause hair loss because they’re not steroids”
→ False. They still bind to androgen receptors, and receptor activity – not just hormones – is what matters.

“Only RAD-140 causes shedding”
→ Wrong. Even Ostarine has triggered loss in sensitive users.

“If you don’t shed after 1 week, you’re safe”
→ Shedding can occur weeks into or after a cycle, especially during hormone rebound.

“You can just block DHT and be fine”
→ DHT blockers come with their own risks – especially when combining with hormonal modulators.