Your hair likely looks ginger in the light due to the presence of pheomelanin, a type of pigment that produces red and yellow tones.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
-
Melanin and Hair Color: Hair color is primarily determined by the amount and type of melanin present. There are two main types:
- Eumelanin: Produces brown and black pigments.
- Pheomelanin: Produces red and yellow pigments.
-
Pheomelanin's Role: Even if you consider yourself a brunette or blonde, your hair still contains some pheomelanin.
-
Light's Effect: Certain types of light, especially sunlight or bright indoor lighting, can accentuate the red and yellow tones produced by pheomelanin. This is why you might notice a reddish or ginger hue in your hair under specific lighting conditions, even if your hair generally appears brown, blonde, or even black.
-
Genetics: The amount of pheomelanin your hair produces is genetically determined. If you have ancestors with red hair, you're more likely to have a higher concentration of pheomelanin, which can make the red tones more visible in the light.
-
Hair Damage: Damaged hair can also appear more red. The hair cuticle becomes raised, making it more porous. The exposure of the hair's inner layers can increase the visibility of underlying red/orange tones.
In short, blame it on the pheomelanin in your hair interacting with the light!
