On the occasion of Redheads Day: amazing facts about orange hair

Today (Saturday), January 12th, the world celebrates “Kiss the Redhead International” day, which aims to celebrate the uniqueness of people with red hair.

Red hair is a fairly rare phenomenon, found in only about one to two percent of the world’s population. But beyond the unique hair color, the redheads also have special health and medical properties that make them a unique and scientifically interesting group. Here is everything you should know about the redheads – from the skin to the character.

The origin of the red hair

The reason for the red hair color lies in a mutation in the MC1R gene. This gene is responsible for the production of melanin – a pigment that gives color to the skin, hair and eyes. In red-haired people, the mutation in this gene leads to an increased production of the pigment pheomelanin (pheomelanin), which gives hair its red hue, and to lower levels of eumelanin (eumelanin), which is responsible for dark colors.

Sun sensitive skin

Redheads tend to have particularly light skin, which leads to a higher sensitivity to UV radiation. As a result, they are at increased risk of skin diseases such as melanoma, a dangerous type of skin cancer. An essential recommendation for redheads: regular use of sunscreen, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, and periodic examinations by a dermatologist.

Unique ability to produce vitamin D

On the other hand, the fair skin of redheads gives them an important advantage: they can produce vitamin D more efficiently in areas with low solar radiation. Thanks to this advantage, redheads may be more protected from diseases caused by vitamin D deficiency such as rickets or osteoporosis.

Sensitivity to pain and anesthetics

Studies have found that redheads tend to experience increased sensitivity to pain and often require higher doses of anesthetics. Scientific studies have linked this to a mutation in the MC1R gene that affects receptors associated with the sensation of pain.

eye health

Red-haired people often tend to have green or blue eyes – a unique and less common combination in the population. However, their bright eyes are more sensitive to sunlight, so they may be at higher risk of eye damage, such as cataracts.

The relationship between hair color and character

Although this is largely a myth, redheads are sometimes considered to be “warm-blooded” or have a more boisterous nature. Some researchers have suggested a possible link between genes that affect hair color and levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain, which may explain tendencies toward more enthusiastic behavior.

The risk of ADHD

Some studies indicate that redheads may be at an increased risk of ADHD. Although there are no definitive conclusions, the researchers are investigating whether the unique genetics of redheads affects neurological characteristics.

Reduced risk of some diseases

While redheads are more sensitive to the sun and pain, some studies suggest that they may be more protected against certain types of headaches and certain diseases associated with chronic health problems.

Are the redheads extinct?

Despite a common myth that redheads are going extinct, scientists say there is no basis for this. The mutation in the MC1R gene may be rare, but it is inherited in a recessive manner and will remain in the population.

As mentioned, “Kiss the Redhead” day is a unique holiday that is celebrated every year on January 12 around the world, and is dedicated to people with red hair. The day was founded in 2009, with the aim of raising awareness of the beauty and uniqueness of redheads and breaking social stigmas associated with them. Today’s origin is an online initiative that gained momentum on social networks, and became an international event.

During this day, people tend to show appreciation and affection to redheads through friendly gestures, such as hugs, kisses (with consent of course), or compliments on their uniqueness. In countries such as the Netherlands, Ireland and Scotland, where there is a high concentration of redheads, there are also special celebrations that include community events and meetings of redheads. Over the years, the day has become not only a colorful celebration, but also an opportunity to raise awareness of medical and social issues related to this unique community.