What is is strawberry blonde ginger?

Strawberry Blonde: A Shade of Ginger?

While often considered a distinct hair color, strawberry blonde can be thought of as a variation or subset of ginger hair. Here's why:

• Pigmentation: Both strawberry blonde and classic ginger hair derive their reddish tones from the pheomelanin pigment. Eumelanin, the pigment responsible for brown and black hair, is present in low levels.

• Diluted Red: Strawberry blonde represents a lighter, more diluted form of red hair. Classic red/ginger has a higher concentration of pheomelanin.

• Genetic Connection: Genes that determine red hair (primarily variants of the MC1R gene) also influence strawberry blonde. Individuals with these genes may express the trait to varying degrees.

• Blonde Undertones: The key difference lies in the presence of blonde tones. Strawberry blonde features a blend of reddish hues with significant blonde highlights or overall lightness. This gives it a "strawberry" appearance.

In summary, strawberry blonde sits on a spectrum alongside traditional red hair, with the determining factor being the relative amount and interaction of pheomelanin, eumelanin, and blonde characteristics.