A popular Christmas decoration could make your hair fall out if it touches the scalp, a leading hair transplant surgeon is warning.
Poinsettias are common fixtures in homes across the United Kingdom, but its sap can cause irritation and hair loss.
Sam Cinkir, CEO of skin and hair clinic Este Medical Group , said the sticky substance can have a similar effect to commercial hair loss products such as Veet.
He said: “Poinsettias are synonymous with Christmas and it’s common for us to display the distinctive red plants in our homes at this time of year.
“However, it’s important to be aware of the potential health hazards it can cause, including skin irritation and hair loss.
“The festive foliage’s sap contain chemicals that can have a depilatory effect and remove the hair shaft, meaning it could have the same dissolving effect as hair removal creams.
“While this is unlikely to happen without prolonged contact, it’s important to wash your hands thoroughly to avoid any chance of temporary hair loss.”
Poinsettias, with their vibrant red and green leaves, are indigenous to Central America and have become a firm symbol of Christmas since the last century.
They can grow up to 4m high, and their sap - or latex - can easily be seen if you snap one of the leaves in half.
Their star-shaped leaves are often associated with the Star of David, which led the Three Wise Men to Jesus.
However, the plants were used by the Aztecs for a number of purposes, including as a red dye for fabrics and as an ingredient in fever medicine.
