Understanding the science behind our genes is quite interesting. The human body is fascinating when you take time to understand the way it works.
People from all over the world have the opportunity to bond over certain features that are present in their ethnicity. That being said, we often wonder if traits that are not common in a certain ethnicity are possible.
A common thought is whether black people have the possibility of having other textures aside from curly and also colors aside from black. This article will discuss whether black people can really have red hair, let’s take a look!
Can Black People Have Red Hair?
Mixing genes make just about anything possible! That’s the beauty in our body’s, they have the ability to create beautiful art. So, yes, black people can have red hair!
While this is not a common thing to see, the science behind our hair color does make this possible. A very small percentage of the world’s population has red hair, those that are black and have red hair are even smaller. Even though you may not personally know a black person with red hair, they’re out there.
While it’s rare for black people to have naturally red hair, you may be used to seeing their hair colored red. Red hair, especially shades that have a darker undertones are known to go well with darker skin. The shades complement each other.
What Causes Red Hair?
Red hair comes from pheomelanin being present in the hair strand. Typically melanin is what gives hair its color but pheomelanin gives off a red pigment instead.
Another cause of red hair is the genes themselves. The MC1R gene is what causes a red hair trait. Red heads have a mutation in the gene causing the red hair.[1]
This gene is a recessive genetic trait meaning it needs to be present in the parents in order for the child to receive it. This trait is known to skip generations making it even more difficult to have this trait present.
Why Do Black People Generally Have Darker Hair Shades?
The reason darker hair is generally present in black people is once again due to genes. There are dominant and recessive genes present. Recessive genes are more rare and not as common.
Dominant genes are more common and widely available, darker colors fall into this category. Even if a recessive gene is present in someone’s genes, the dominant gene will take over. Eumelanin is more dominant than pheomelanin.
This results in darker hair shades being more commonly seen around the world, not just in specific countries. All ethnicities have darker genes present.
Also read: Why Black People Have Curly, Kinky Hair?
Hair Tips for Redheads
- Keep hair looking vibrant – Color adding shampoo will keep your hair from looking faded whether naturally red or colored.. You can also invest in a gloss, this won’t alter the color but just add an overall shine.
- Condition your hair – Red hair is on the coarser side of the scale. Using conditioner regularly will help you to maintain a soft feeling throughout your styles and make your hair easier to manage overall.
- Protect – Protect your beautiful locks from both heat tools and the sun. Both can have a damaging effect on your hair if not properly cared for.
What Ethnicity Has Red Hair?
Typically, those from Northern Europe have the genetics that produce red hair. Red hair is more commonly called ginger hair. This specific color is one of the rarest colors and is found in a very low number of people. Although those from Northern Europe typically have fair skin with this ginger colored hair, when genetics mix or mutate, other ethnicities can also have this beautiful color.
What Is The Most Common Hair Color In America?
Brown is the most common hair color in the United States. This is due to the fact that brown is a dominant color. This also includes a variety of different shades ranging from light to dark. The different amounts of melanin present in a hair strand will affect the overall shade of the hair.
What Is The Rarest Hair Color?
Natural red hair also known as ginger hair is the rarest color hair. It has been said that as little as 2% of the entire world population has this hair color. The reason this hair is so rare is because red hair is a recessive genetic trait. That means both parents need to have the trait somewhere in their genes, even if they personally don’t have red hair.
Closing
While it is not the most common thing to find people of color with red hair, it is possible. Depending on your genes you may be in for a surprise.
Red hair is very flattering on darker skin tones making it another reason even if people aren’t naturally red, they decide to color their hair.
Whether you naturally have this beautiful color or decide to artificially add it, you are sure to be happy with the results and watch accordingly.