SCIENCE in your LIFE
The science behind red hair
By K.B.
Have you ever wondered why some people have red hair or where it comes from? The science behind it has to do with a mutation of a gene called the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R). This helps to make the pigment that gives red hair its red color, pheomelanin. Redheads are known for having many distinct features besides their red hair such as light skin, and freckles as well.
The mutation of the MC1R gene that gives people their red hair can also have different effects on the body. One reason would be that redheads appear to be more sensitive to pain. The MC1R gene codes for a receptor that is related to other receptors involved in feeling pain. Redheads may also require more anesthesia (is used to control pain during a surgery or procedure) due to their higher sensitivity to pain.
One of the most notable health risks associated with having red hair is the increased risk of getting sun burnt. Having fair skin alone will increase the chance of getting sun burnt, but the genetic mutation that redheads have may increase the risk even more. Studies have found that the mutation of the MC1R gene can also lead to an increased chance of skin cancer. It is very important redheads avoid ultraviolet (UV) radiation when possible.
Avoiding tanning beds and wearing sunscreen when outdoors is some of the best actions to take for protecting their skin.
Redheads also tend to have a lot more freckles than the average person. This is because the MC1R gene also causes freckles. When the skin is exposed to UV radiation, melanin will show up. Melanin is a pigment protein that protects the skin by darkening it when UV radiation hits the skin. Freckles form from thick specks of melanin.
Source: Healy, E., Flannagan, N., Ray, A., Todd, C., Jackson, I. J., Matthews, J. N., ... & Rees, J. L. (2000). Melanocortin-1-receptor gene and sun sensitivity in individuals without red hair. The Lancet, 355(9209), 1072-1073.
Please send any questions or comments to Dr. Spitzer (spitzern@marshall.edu )
Note: Any opinions expressed in these articles are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent those of Dr. Spitzer, the Department of Biological Sciences, or Marshall University.