Confessions of a Natural Red head



What is it like growing up with hair color that only 1-2% of the human population possesses? Well, it has had its share of ups and downs just like its popularity.  Some years red hair is in style and highlighted and admired by those who have it (and many who try to get it). During the Elizabethan era in England red hair was seen as noble and prized, and it influenced the fashion, art and poetry scene at that time. At other time periods red hair has been seen as “ghastly” or down right evil. Ancient cultures have feared red heads (thinking they were a sign of the devil) and some innocent red heads were even burned as witches in Salem, Massachusetts. Bloody Mary (Mary Queen of Scots) didn’t help with the reputation of the red head, nor did Lizzy Borden.  When out of fashion red hair has been depicted as brassy, frizzy and ugly, and when in style it is seen as golden, flaming and luscious. Fashion trends and famous celebrities can have an enormous influence on the popularity of red hair, often leading to a rise in coloring appointments. 

I have also observed that people are not on the fence about their feelings toward red hair; they either love it or hate it. I suppose that is because of its flamboyant, bright nature-it can’t be ignored or overlooked, and the reaction is almost as fiery and passionate as the color. I have come across a few haters in my life. Sometimes it is comical but sometimes it is just plain mean. In elementary school children would love to point out that I was a “carrot top” or “copper top” or even “a red headed woodpecker.” I remember boys on the schoolyard pretending to use their hoses to put out the fire on my head. I laughed it off and played along, but sometimes it got personal. I have been called “Chuckie” (the killer doll) and “Heat Miser,” (who I think is cute) and my own sister would say in anger, “better dead then red in the head!” 

The thing about red hair is that it is very rare. Many families only have one (like mine) so there is no safety in numbers or place to go where you blend in with the crowd. I haven’t heard of any red head support groups. The only times I have felt like I’ve “fit in” were in college (I attended an Irish, catholic school which probably had a 10-20% red head population), and in Ireland where I travelled while studying my ancestors. 

While roaming through the British Isles I began to wonder why there were so many red heads there and in other northern European countries? I found some pretty interesting answers.  Some scientists in Scotland believe the gene for red hair has helped people survive the cool climate. Their theory is that people with red hair generally have non-tanning skin and this helps them absorb Vitamin D even when sunlight is scarce.  They also believe that red heads retains heat better than those with darker skin.  Finally! A benefit to having red hair!  Well, maybe not now that global warming is upon us. Darn it. 

One conspiracy theory explaining why red heads are going extinct is that they believe the red head gene will no longer be needed or wanted if our earth warms up and the ozone layer is depleted. As harmful rays burst through the atmosphere we will need darker skin as a defense and light skin and hair may be selected against. Oh, no! 

Another theory states that fewer red heads are marrying red heads so the recessive gene is being dispersed and will eventually be extinct. I am happy to report that these theories have not been substantiated and that the red head population is not rapidly declining. 

It is true that there are a few medical issues distinct to natural red heads. I will give you a quick run down on my experiences: 

• Red heads are susceptible to skin cancer: It is correct that the skin of red heads makes us vulnerable to the ultraviolet rays, and there is a scary link between fair skin and red heads to melanoma cases.  I personally try to use lots of sunscreen and get checked by a dermatologist two times of year. Defense fellow red heads! 
• Red heads need more anesthesia: Yes, it is true I choked and squirmed through my first endoscopy and I begged my Dr. for more anesthesia during my colonoscopy so that I would not have a similar problem. I think I would be doing more than squirming if I didn’t have enough medicine for that! 
• Red Heads bleed more. Again, I say affirmative! I had a difficult time when I had my wisdom teeth removed and after all three children were born. 
• Red heads have high pain tolerances: You bet! I had my children in three different hospitals (and one in England) and the doctors were amazed at my ability to deliver with barely any medication. Another benefit to red hair!
• Red heads have short tempers and need anger management:  I hate to be five for five, but I must admit I am “passionate” about things and there have times when I have gotten a bit out of control. Perhaps that has saved many red heads using the “fight “or flight response. We choose to fight-look at all the famous Irish boxers! 

I can’t imagine that all the wonderful traits of being a red head will lead this gene to become extinct. (However, I wouldn’t mind people treating us red heads like we are an endangered species- a little more respect would be nice!) Natural red heads are found everywhere in the world and many of the extinction theories are hoaxes and not based on solid research studies. In fact, the emergence of red head festivals around the world is proving that red heads are alive and well (and ready to party!) Long live the Gingers!!!

Famous red heads: Mary Magdalene, Judas Iscariot, Cleopatra, Richard Lionheart, Christopher Columbus, Elizabeth 1, Mary queen of Scots, Galileo, Vivaldi, Vincent Van go, Winston Churchill, Thomas Jefferson, Emily Dickenson, Mark Twain, Amelia Earhart, Lucille Ball, Julia Roberts and of course, Prince Harry!