Are Redheads More Tolerant? What Science and Stories Say

The redhead myth: where did it even start?

Well, let’s be honest — redheads have always carried a bit of mystery, haven’t they? From fiery temper stereotypes to magical legends, there's something about red hair that sparks curiosity. But recently, I came across this quirky idea during lunch with my friend Jamie: “Do you think redheads are more tolerant?” And I froze. Like... what kind of tolerance are we even talking about? Pain? People? Cold weather?

Actually, there is some science behind it, but also a lot of misconception and generalization. So let’s unpack this idea properly, without turning it into another silly myth.

Redheads and pain tolerance: what research really says

The MC1R gene and pain perception

Here’s where it gets fascinating. Redheads often have a variation in the MC1R gene, which not only gives them their distinct hair color but also seems to impact how they respond to pain. Several studies (like one from the University of Louisville) suggest that redheads may be more sensitive to certain types of pain — particularly thermal pain — but less responsive to anesthetics, especially local ones.

I remember my redheaded cousin Sarah telling me she needed more anesthesia at the dentist and how no one believed her until she literally cried mid-filling. It wasn’t about being dramatic — her body just reacts differently.

So when it comes to pain tolerance, the answer is weirdly twofold: redheads might feel certain pain more acutely, but they also seem to handle it differently. Some show a higher threshold for specific discomforts like electric shocks (no joke). Others just have to grit their teeth harder because the meds don’t kick in the same way.

Redheads and temperature sensitivity

Another interesting (and kind of random) finding is that redheads may be more sensitive to cold temperatures. The same MC1R gene affects how the body processes temperature and regulates pain, which might explain why your ginger friend is always bundled up in three sweaters when you’re fine in a hoodie.

Are redheads more tolerant of people?

Emotional resilience and personality traits

Honestly, this part is a bit more fuzzy. There’s no solid scientific data that says redheads are universally more tolerant of others — as in, more patient or open-minded. That being said, a lot of redheads I've met (and I’ve met a few through college and work) do seem to develop a thick skin from early on.

I mean, let’s face it: being a redhead, especially as a kid, comes with teasing, weird assumptions, and sometimes even bullying. If you're different, you learn to cope, to brush it off, to keep your cool. That kind of lived experience might build tolerance, especially for social discomfort or judgment.

My coworker Ryan — classic Irish redhead — once told me that by the time he hit high school, he had “heard every joke in the book.” And instead of getting angry, he learned to joke back, to stay calm, to not let it mess with his mood. That's some solid emotional tolerance if you ask me.

Social conditioning or natural empathy?

There’s also this idea that because redheads are rare (less than 2% of the global population!), they might feel a bit “outside the norm” growing up. And that might foster a stronger sense of empathy or open-mindedness. Again, it’s not a guarantee — we’re not talking superpowers here — but life experience shapes personality in subtle ways.

Common myths vs. lived reality

Not all redheads are the same

Let’s be real — saying “redheads are more tolerant” is like saying “tall people are better drivers.” It’s way too broad. Redheads come in every shape, background, and personality type. Some are super chill, others... not so much (I dated a redhead once — lovely girl, but patience was not her thing).

So yeah, while some may have unique pain responses or be more emotionally resilient due to life experiences, that doesn’t mean red hair equals instant Zen master.

But some stereotypes aren’t entirely wrong

There is a grain of truth in some generalizations. The idea that redheads might be more resistant to painkillers or more sensitive to cold? Backed by data. The emotional stuff? Less scientific, more anecdotal — but still compelling.

I used to think all of this was just folklore until I saw how differently my redheaded friends handled things — whether it was pain, stress, or even just social awkwardness. There was a subtle, quiet strength in how they reacted. Not always — but often enough that it made me rethink the cliché.

So... are redheads really more tolerant?

Honestly? Sometimes. But not because of their hair color alone. It’s a combo of biology, environment, and personality — just like with anyone else. They might handle pain differently, they might build social resilience earlier, but at the end of the day, being a redhead doesn’t make you inherently more tolerant.

But if you ask me? The redheads I know could teach a masterclass in staying cool when life gets weird. And maybe, just maybe, that’s what we mean when we ask this question in the first place.

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.