Why do some people inherit red hair?

Quick Answer

Red hair is usually caused by variants in the MC1R gene, which affect how the body makes pigment. When this pathway shifts toward a pigment called pheomelanin, hair can turn red or strawberry blond.

The Full Story

Most red hair is linked to changes in the MC1R gene, which helps control the type of melanin produced by pigment cells. People with two altered copies of this gene often make more pheomelanin, the reddish-yellow pigment, and less eumelanin, the darker pigment. Red hair is most common in northern and western Europe, especially Ireland and Scotland, where the trait is relatively frequent. The same gene variants can also influence skin sensitivity to sunlight and a higher tendency to freckle.

Key Facts

1.MC1R is the key gene most often involved

2.Red hair is especially common in Ireland and Scotland

3.The trait is usually associated with more pheomelanin

YouTube Angle

Was this answer helpful?

Tap a reaction — it helps us pick what to cover next.