A new survey has revealed that Ed Sheeran, Prince Harry, and Nicole Kidman are considered the most iconic redheads, according to fellow red-haired individuals. The research, which surveyed 500 red-haired adults, also found that many redheads feel celebrities like Geri Halliwell and Mick Hucknall have helped to break down the stigma surrounding their hair color.
Over 75% of those surveyed believe that public figures with red hair have played a key role in reducing negative stereotypes. However, the survey also revealed that nearly half (47%) of respondents had been bullied because of their hair color, with 48% admitting they had tried to dye their hair.
When asked about their younger years, 75% of participants said they wished they had a different hair color, although 69% now say they would never consider changing it. One in three redheads (34%) felt they truly embraced their hair in their early 20s, with many learning to appreciate standing out from those with blonde or brunette hair.
The research also showed that 71% of redheads believe their struggles with their hair in their youth have made them stronger. A quarter of them feel they’ve finally found a style that suits their unique look.
The study, commissioned by Roland DG, celebrates World Redhead Day on May 26. The company also launched the “50 Shades of Ginger” color index, which includes shades like Sheeran, Canyon, and Sunset, to help redheads find their exact match.
TV personality Jenny Ryan, a redhead herself, shared her own journey with her hair. “As a proud redhead, I’ve grown to truly love my red hair,” she said. “Growing up with a different hair color was challenging, but now I celebrate my redhead status.”
The survey revealed that 54% of redheads would never use the term “ginger” to describe their hair, with 28% feeling it has negative connotations. Instead, they prefer terms like dark burgundy, strawberry blonde, and bright auburn. Despite this, 77% of respondents believe that red hair is now considered very fashionable, and 80% agree that it’s important for younger redheads to have role models.
Lauren Swinnerton from Roland DG explained the company’s initiative, saying, “Our research showed that many redheads don’t identify with the word ‘ginger,’ which is why we created the ’50 Shades of Ginger’ index. Red hair is more than just a color—it’s a symbol of individualism, expression, and beauty.”
