A magician almost lost his life when his head was set on fire on national television in the Dominican Republic.

American Wayne Houchin suffered severe burns when a man, thought to be the host, suddenly took a handful of cologne, set it on fire and threw it over the entertainer's head.

The show's crew rushed onto the set to douse the blaze, and Houchin was rushed to a nearby medical centre.

After receiving treatment, Houchin used Twitter to reveal his pain.

"While appearing on a TV show in the Dominican Republic, the TV host took a handful of Aqua De Florida, ignited it and intentionally dropped it on my head, setting me on fire. I was not aware he was going to do this," he wrote.

"This was not a stunt or part of an act - this was a criminal attack. The fast actions of the rest of our Curiosidades team saved my life. The fire was put out and I was rushed to the emergency room. I have bad burns on my head, face, neck and right hand.

"I am in pain, but am recovering. I will update you on the situation when I can."

Get well messages from fans indundated the micro-blogging site. Legendary magician David Copperfield got in touch to write:

@waynehouchin My thoughts are with you and your family. Best wishes on a swift and complete recovery.

— David Copperfield (@D_Copperfield) November 29, 2012

The substance Aqua de Florida, which Houchin claims was thrown on him, is also a voodoo cleansing agent popular with shamen and witch doctors in the Caribbean.

Magician Wayne Houchin Still in Hospital after Head Set on Fire on TV [VIDEO]