Teenager With The Longest Hair In The World Does This To Maintain It...

The teenager from US claims his record by beating India's Sidakdeep Singh Chahal, whose hair was measured last year to be 146 cm.

The Guinness World Record holder visited a hair salon to get an accurate measurement of his hair. (Photo: Instagram/@guinnessworldrecords)

It takes a lot of effort and discipline to grow and maintain long and luscious hair, even if you are genetically blessed with it. For 17-year-old Reuben Looks Twice Jr, it is no different. The native American from South Dakota, US, has been recognised recently by the Guinness World Records for having the 'world's longest hair on a male teenager'. His hair is 161 cm long, or 5 feet 3.3 inches. According to the Guinness website, the teenager has not had a hair cut done since he was two years old. Interestingly, Reuben claims his record by beating India's Sidakdeep Singh Chahal, whose hair was measured last year to be 146 cm. Take a look at this video.

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Being Proud Of His Culture

Initially, Reuben's parents decided to let his hair grow because as a child he was afraid of hair clippers. But, as he grew older, he continued to grow his hair because of his tribe's tradition. He said, "Culturally, Lakota people have long hair. It's part of our Nagi (spirit). It is who I am. I feel proud to represent my family and the Lakota nation."

How Does He Maintain His Long Locks?

Reuben told Guinness that it takes him 20 minutes to wash his hair, and it takes an hour for the hair to dry. He apparently washes his hair every morning using shampoo and conditioner. After it is dry, he spends some more time -- 10 minutes or so -- to 'untangle, brush and braid'. The teenager usually wears his hair in a long braid.

He joked that the downside to having long hair is that it can get stuck in car doors, and also on the shower knobs. The positive aspect is that he inspires others to grow their hair, too.

How His Hair Was Measured

The Guinness World Record holder visited a hair salon to get an accurate measurement of his hair. At the salon, his hair was unbraided, washed, and brushed. It was then spread out on a table and the longest strand was identified and measured.

Interestingly, according to Guinness, there is no current record holder for 'longest hair on a living man'. Reuben, it appears, will qualify for the title when he turns 18.

He does not plan to cut his hair ever.