Redheads are rare, striking, and endlessly intriguing. From their unique genetic makeup to the myths and legends that surround them, there’s so much more to red hair than meets the eye.
Whether you’re a redhead yourself, know someone with fiery locks, or are simply curious, you’ll be amazed by these little-known facts. From surprising biological traits to historical oddities, here are 17 strange and fascinating things about redheads that will leave you in awe.
They Are Exceptionally Rare
Only about 1-2% of the world’s population has natural red hair. It’s most commonly found in people of Northern or Western European descent, especially in Scotland and Ireland.
This rarity makes red hair one of the most unique physical traits in the world.
Their Hair Is Harder to Dye
Red hair is more resistant to dye because the pigment responsible for its fiery hue, pheomelanin, is incredibly strong. It requires more effort to strip the natural color and often leaves a reddish undertone, even after multiple processes.
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They Feel Pain Differently
Studies show that redheads have a higher tolerance for certain types of pain but are more sensitive to temperature-related pain. This is linked to a mutation in the MC1R gene, which not only affects hair color but also pain perception.
They Need More Anesthesia
Redheads often require higher doses of anesthesia during surgery. Research suggests that their unique genetic makeup can make standard doses less effective, leading doctors to adjust accordingly.
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They Have Fewer Hair Strands
On average, redheads have about 90,000 hair strands, compared to 110,000 for brunettes and 140,000 for blondes. However, their individual strands are thicker, which gives the appearance of fuller hair.
They Produce Their Own Vitamin D
Redheads are better at synthesizing vitamin D in low-light conditions. This ability helps them thrive in cloudy climates, particularly in regions like Scotland and Ireland, where red hair is most common.
They Are More Likely to Be Left-Handed
There’s a curious correlation between being a redhead and being left-handed. Both traits are influenced by recessive genes, and their rare occurrence makes the combination even more unique.
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They Don’t Gray the Same Way
Instead of turning gray with age, red hair tends to fade to a sandy blonde or silvery-white. This gradual shift is a striking feature that sets redheads apart from others.
They Were Feared in Ancient Times
In some ancient cultures, redheads were thought to be witches or possessed by spirits. Their rare and fiery hair was seen as otherworldly, leading to superstition and even persecution in extreme cases.
They Have a Unique Smell
The oils in a redhead’s scalp are slightly different from those of other hair colors, producing a subtle but distinct scent. It’s not something you’d notice without knowing to look for it, but it’s a scientifically observed phenomenon.
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They’re More Prone to Sunburn
Redheads are more likely to burn in the sun due to their lighter skin and reduced ability to produce melanin. This makes sunscreen and sun protection essential for them year-round.
They Are More Sensitive to Cold
Many redheads report feeling colder than others in the same environment. This sensitivity is also tied to the MC1R gene mutation, which affects their body’s ability to regulate temperature perception.
They Have Inspired Myths and Legends
From Cleopatra to Viking warriors, redheads have been central to countless myths and legends. Some cultures saw them as lucky charms, while others linked them to fiery tempers and otherworldly powers.
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They’re Less Likely to Go Bald
The thicker strands of red hair not only give it a fuller appearance but also make redheads less likely to experience severe hair loss or balding compared to brunettes or blondes.
Their Eye Colors Are Unique
Most redheads have blue, green, or hazel eyes—making the combination of red hair and green eyes particularly rare and striking. These combinations are often celebrated for their aesthetic beauty.
They Were Once Considered Vampires
In some medieval European folklore, redheads were thought to turn into vampires after death. Their pale skin and striking hair fueled these bizarre beliefs.
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They Are Seen as Good Luck in Some Cultures
While some myths painted redheads in a negative light, others saw them as symbols of fortune. In some cultures, spotting a redhead is still considered a sign of good luck.
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