Top 5 Facts

1. CHARLES XAVIER MAY COME CALLING BECAUSE WE ARE MUTANTS

Our rufescence comes from a mutation in our MC1R gene. Both parents must carry this gene in order to produce ginger offspring, however, they do not necessarily need to be a redhead themselves.

2. IS IT OUR FIREY TEMPERS OR DO WE RESEMBLE A PLANT?

It is unknown when exactly the term "ginger" originated. Some believe that it is around the Old English period when Britain invaded Malaysia - where the Ginger plant is naturally grown, the flower of which is red. Others believe it relates to the firey taste of the ginger spice, as we are well known for our tempers (...no comment).

3. WE ARE SENSITIVE SOULS

Being a redhead is not only a wondrous gift, it is also a curse. We are more sensitive to temperature - keep us out of direct sunlight and let us wear your jumpers.

4. NO SUNNY-D FOR US

In relation to number 3, we are sensitive to UV and high temperatures (sunburn is a constant joy...), in spite of this we can produce more vitamin D ourselves than any other hair colour! This is probably because the sun is not our friend.

5. AS RARE AS THE DODO

Coppertops make up just 2% of the worlds population! This would explain why our hair is loved by little old women across the globe. It may be surprising to hear, but red hair can occur in any ethnicity! It is simply more common in Western Europe. According to the internet, however, we are becoming extinct due to global warming... appreciate us while you can people.