No, red hair is not more common. In fact, it is relatively rare.
Red hair is a recessive genetic trait caused by a mutation in the MC1R gene. This mutation leads to lower levels of eumelanin (dark pigment) and higher levels of pheomelanin (red pigment) in the hair.
Prevalence of Red Hair
- Global Percentage: Only about 1-2% of the world's population naturally has red hair. Some estimates put it as high as 4-5%.
- Geographic Concentration: Red hair is most common in Northern and Western European countries, particularly Scotland and Ireland.
- Scotland has the highest percentage of redheads, with around 13% of the population.
- Ireland is close behind, with approximately 10% of the population having red hair.
- Rarity Elsewhere: Red hair is significantly less common in other parts of the world, such as Africa, Asia, and South America.
Interesting Facts
- Blue Eyes and Red Hair: The combination of red hair and blue eyes is even rarer, as both are recessive traits.
- The MC1R Gene: People can carry the MC1R gene without having red hair themselves. If both parents carry the gene, there is a 25% chance that their child will have red hair.
In summary, red hair is a relatively uncommon trait, concentrated primarily in specific regions of Northern and Western Europe.
