Science-Backed Facts You Didn’t Know About People With Red Hair

Science-Backed Facts You Didn’t Know About People With Red Hair

Redheads are more than just a hair color – they’re a force of nature! From their fiery personalities to the unique quirks that come with their genes, gingers stand out. There’s also some seriously cool science behind those crimson locks. Did you know they can produce their own Vitamin D? Or that they feel pain differently? Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of redheads, bust some myths, and celebrate a hair color that’s as rare as it is awesome.

1. They’re a genetic rarity.

Only around 2% of the world’s population are natural redheads, GQ reports. It’s a recessive gene, so both parents need to carry it for their kid to have a chance of those crimson locks. Basically, redheads are like shiny Pokémon – rare and awesome to have on your team.

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2. They make their own Vitamin D.

Their pale skin is super efficient at absorbing sunlight, which means they produce vitamin D faster than people with darker skin tones. Cool superpower, but they still need sunscreen! Think of them as solar-powered superheroes, but with a weakness to sunburn.

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3. They have a higher pain tolerance…

Studies suggest redheads are less sensitive to certain types of pain, like spicy food and dental procedures. Might explain why they always seem a bit feisty. They could probably win a hot-pepper-eating contest without breaking a sweat.

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4. … But they’re more sensitive to certain anesthetics.

That same gene mutation that affects pain perception also means they often need more anesthesia for it to be effective. Always let your doctor or dentist know you’re a redhead! Otherwise, that root canal might feel even less fun than it already is.

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5. Red hair might have been a Neanderthal trait.

Scientists found a Neanderthal gene that’s also linked to red hair and pale skin. Gingers could be channeling their inner caveman (or cavewoman) fierceness! Makes you wonder if they all had epic beards and excellent hunting skills too…

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6. Temperature changes hit them hard.

Redheads are way more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, thanks to that same gene variant affecting their pain receptors. Basically, they’re human thermometers. If a redhead complains about the room being too cold, don’t question them – just pass them a blanket!

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7. Bees are attracted to them.

Apparently, bees love the scent of red hair. Or maybe they’re just easily fooled, mistaking fiery locks for a giant, buzzing-friendly flower. Explains why picnics can sometimes be extra adventurous for gingers.

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8. Redheads don’t really go gray.

Instead of turning silver, their red hair fades to a pinkish-blonde, and then eventually a stunning white. Gingers basically rock every hair color throughout their lives. They’re like hair chameleons – but way cooler.

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9. Famous redheads rock history.

From Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I to Winston Churchill and Ed Sheeran, redheads have left their mark on the world. They ain’t called fiery for nothing! Imagine a meeting with those historical legends – the sass levels would probably be off the charts.

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10. They have their own festival in the Netherlands.

Roodharigendag celebrates everything ginger – think parades, food stalls, and tons of redhead meet-ups. It’s the ultimate party for embracing the fiery spirit. Imagine a whole town overflowing with redheads – it’d be like a giant, adorable ginger takeover!

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11. They tend to be left-handed.

While not always the case, there is a correlation between red hair and left-handedness. It just adds to their fascinating uniqueness! Redheaded lefties are a double-dose of quirkiness, making them even more special.

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12. Aristotle had some not-so-nice theories.

Back in ancient Greece, Aristotle believed redheads were prone to bad tempers. Clearly, he never met a sweet, fiery ginger soul! Ancient philosophers weren’t always known for their accuracy, and Aristotle definitely missed the mark on this one.

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13. Their red hair might disappear.

Scientists warn that due to the rarity of the gene, natural redheads could become extinct within a century. Let’s appreciate these fiery beauties while we’ve got them! Imagine a world without redheads – way less interesting to look at, that’s for sure.

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14. Scotland boasts the highest percentage of gingers.

About 13% of Scotland’s population are redheads, with Ireland following close behind. Must be something in that Celtic air that encourages those gorgeous fiery genes. Maybe it’s the bagpipes, or all that delicious haggis they eat…

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15. Redheads might have a stronger sex drive.

While unproven, a German study suggested a link between red hair and a more active libido. This one might just be an excuse, but hey, we won’t judge! If being a redhead makes you feel a little extra sassy, more power to you.

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16. Adolf Hitler reportedly banned redheads from marrying.

In a misguided attempt to create a “master race”, Hitler supposedly discouraged redheads from procreating. Because nothing screams “superior” like trying to control people’s hair color… Thankfully, his ridiculous beliefs didn’t stick, and redheads continue to thrive.

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17. “Gingerism” is a real form of prejudice.

Sadly, redheads face bullying and prejudice for their hair color. Remember, being unique is awesome, and those who judge are the ones missing out. Anyone who picks on someone for something as cool as red hair is clearly lacking good taste.

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18. National Love Your Red Hair Day exists!

Celebrated on November 5th, it’s a day to embrace the beauty and power of redheads everywhere. Rock those fiery locks, gingers! Mark your calendars and wear your brightest red outfit to show some ginger pride.

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Gail is Bolde's social media and partnership manager, as well as an all-around behind-the-scenes renaissance woman. She worked for more than 25 years in her city's local government before making the switch to women's lifestyle and relationship sites, initially at HelloGiggles before making the switch to Bolde.
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