@woejak: Redheaded individuals carry a genetic mutation in the Melanocortin 1 Receptor (MC1R) gene. This specific mutation alters how skin cells produce melanin in response to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Instead of creating eumelanin, the dark, photoprotective pigment that absorbs UV rays and causes tanning, their bodies predominantly produce pheomelanin. Pheomelanin is a chemically unstable, reddish-yellow pigment that fails to shield cell DNA from radiation. Consequently, the skin lacks natural photoprotection, leading to immediate cellular damage, rapid erythema (sunburn), and heightened carcinogenic risk upon sun exposure. #facts #biology #wojak

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Monday 27 July 2026 22:50:11 GMT