Where+Red+Hair+Comes+From

[|Where Red Hair Comes From] February 11, 2010  This article is about where the gene for red hair comes from. Only about 2% of the American population has red hair. It is more commonly found in Europe, namely Scotland and Ireland, where up to 13% of the population has red hair. Red hair is commonly caused by a mutation of the Melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1r) gene on chromosome 16. The MC1r gene is involved in telling certain cells to make a dark, or brown-black type of melanin called eumelanin. The lack of MC1r would result in decreased production of eumelanin. People with a mutation in the MC1r gene, such as redheads, would instead make another type of melanin called pheomelanin. Other unknown genes must also play roles in producing red hair; studies have yet to determine what else may be involved.  The low concentration of eumelanin also contributes to light skin, which is why red hair and fair skin are commonly seen together. However, with less melanin, redheads are at a higher risk for skin cancer. Redheads should avoid tanning, because they lack the protection from eumelanin to prevent DNA damage from UV radiation. (that’s why I always get burned even when its cloudy). 3/14/10 Cwisler