Yes, red hair does have pigment. The specific pigment responsible for red hair is called pheomelanin.
Here's a breakdown:
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Melanin: Hair color is determined by melanin, which comes in two main types:
- Eumelanin: Produces brown and black hair.
- Pheomelanin: Produces red and blonde hair.
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Pheomelanin's Role: People with red hair have a higher concentration of pheomelanin and a relatively lower concentration of eumelanin in their hair shafts.
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Genetic Basis: The production of pheomelanin is primarily determined by genetics, specifically variations in the MC1R gene.
In conclusion, red hair's distinctive color is due to the presence of the pigment pheomelanin.
