Research has shown that people with red hair perceive pain differently than others. They may be more sensitive to certain types of pain and can require higher doses of some pain-killing medications. However, studies suggest that their general pain tolerance may be higher.

Do redheads feel pain different?

Summary: Humans and mice with red hair have a different tolerance for pain because their skin's pigment-producing cells lack the function of a certain receptor. Lack of this receptor function causes changes that tip the balance between pain sensitivity and pain tolerance.

Why do redheads feel less painful?

The research found that the cells that determine skin color — called melanocytes — play a large role in deciding how people experience pain. As fire-haired folks boast a faulty melanocyte, they can't process enough dark pigment to tan, which has the added effect of elevating their threshold for hurt.