Over on YouTube there are hundreds of videos that recommend people rub chopped onions, chilli peppers, or spices into their scalp to promote hair growth. But doctors say this trick is not only ineffective, but could also cause further damage and hair loss… which is the exact opposite of what you’re after.

Leading hair transplant surgeon Dr Bessam Farjo is warning people not to risk injury by trying out these homemade concoctions. Dr Farjo, from Farjo Hair Institute, said: ‘It’s highly unlikely anyone who tries this will see any results. There is a risk of causing skin irritation and inflammation to the scalp and subsequent hair loss.’

Consultant Dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson Dr Sharon Wong, has also urged caution. She said: ‘Capsaicin is the active ingredient in chillies, and is known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, there is minimal evidence that Capsaicin can regrow hair. ‘Rubbing chilli in any of its forms directly onto the scalp can cause burning sensations, hypersensitivity and contact dermatitis. If severe enough these can potentially cause hair loss as a secondary effect.’

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