As a subject matter expert in genetics and population studies, I can provide you with an informed perspective on the rarity of red hair. Red hair is indeed considered rare, and it is the least common natural hair color in the world. The trait is determined by variations in the MC1R gene, which is associated with the production of the pigment melanin. Red hair is most commonly found in people of northern and western European descent, particularly in Scotland, Ireland, and Wales.

The frequency of red hair varies significantly across different regions. For example, in Scotland, around 13% of the population has red hair, which is the highest percentage globally. In contrast, the frequency drops to about 1% in the United States and Europe outside of the British Isles. It is even rarer in other parts of the world, such as Asia and Africa, where the occurrence is less than 1%.

The rarity of red hair is also influenced by the fact that it is a recessive trait, which means that both parents must carry the gene for a child to have red hair. Even if both parents carry the gene, there is only a 25% chance that any given child will have red hair, as the other possible combinations result in other hair colors.

In conclusion, while red hair is not as common as other hair colors, it is a distinctive and unique feature that is valued and celebrated in many cultures.

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Red hair is associated with the gene MC1R, a recessive and somewhat rare gene that occurs in only about 2 percent of the world's population, according to the National Institutes of Health. ... Rarest of all are redheads with blue eyes. The majority have brown eyes or hazel or green shades.read more >>