Indian teenager Lalit Patidar has secured a Guinness World Record (GWR) for the hairiest face on a male, with an official measurement of 201.72 hairs per square centimetre, according to a statement by Guinness World Records (GWR).
GWR described the 18-year-old as having a “one-in-a-billion werewolf syndrome,” scientifically known as hypertrichosis, a rare condition that results in excessive hair growth. The statement noted that “over 95 per cent of his face is covered in hair.”
Reacting to the recognition, Lalit expressed his excitement, saying, “I am speechless, I don’t know what to say because I’m very happy to receive this recognition.”
GWR highlighted the rarity of Lalit’s condition, stating that he is one of only around 50 documented cases worldwide since the Middle Ages, making him “one in a billion and certainly a special person.”
Despite achieving the record, Lalit has faced challenges, including ridicule and stares from others. The statement recounted his experiences, noting that his schoolmates were initially afraid of him.
“The other children at school were even scared of him when he arrived on his first day,” GWR stated.
Lalit recalled, “They were scared of me, but when they got to know me and started talking to me, they realised I was not so different from them. It was just my appearance that was different, but inside, I am the same.”
Although most people treat him well, he acknowledged that some have been less kind. In response to those who suggest he remove his facial hair, he said, “There is not much to say to people about that. I tell them that I like how I am, and I don’t want to change my look.”
Lalit has embraced his identity despite the challenges, drawing strength from his family and sharing his experiences online.
“Lalit fully embraces who he is and what makes him unique, even inviting others to follow his daily life on his YouTube channel,” GWR added.
His record was officially confirmed during a trip to Milan, Italy, where he appeared on GWR’s television show Lo Show dei Record. As part of the verification process, a trichologist assessed his facial hair by shaving small portions to determine the hairs per square centimetre.
