A Native American teenager has captured the world’s attention for having the world’s longest hair measuring an impressive 161 cm (5 ft 3.3 in).📏
Meet Reuben Looks Twice Jr.
Last Haircut at 2 years Old
Reuben’s parents decided not to cut his hair after 2 years old because he was afraid of hair clippers. Over time, this decision transformed into a deeper cultural commitment.
Did you know there’s a popular myth surrounding Native American hair and its use during the Vietnam War involving the belief that long hair provided Native American soldiers with enhanced tracking abilities.
There’s no wonder the native people have this close attachment to their locks!
Official Record Measurement
To achieve an official measurement for his record, Reuben visited a hair salon where his hair was unbraided, washed, and brushed out.
When hair is wet, it becomes more elastic and stretches more than when it is dry. This stretching can make the hair appear longer temporarily!
His hair was then laid out on a table, and three measurements were taken to ensure accuracy. The average of these measurements confirmed Reuben’s record at 161 cm.
Hair so long it could pass for a persons height!
Daily Hair Care Routine
Maintaining such long hair requires dedication and effort. Reuben usually wears his hair in a long braid, a style that not only manages its length but also honors his cultural traditions.
Protective styling is a god send for hair this length!
Each day, he spends around 20 minutes washing his hair with shampoo and conditioner, an hour to dry it, and an additional 10 minutes to untangle, brush, and braid it.
Reuben Looks Twice Jr. now holds the title for the longest hair on a male teenager, surpassing the previous record held by India’s Sidakdeep Singh Chahal, whose hair measured 146 cm (4 ft 9.5 in) last year.
Reuben’s achievement not only celebrates his personal commitment but also highlights the cultural significance of hair in his Lakota heritage.
The Downside to having the Longest Hair?
Despite the admiration he receives, there are some practical challenges. Reuben occasionally faces minor inconveniences, such as his hair getting caught in car doors or snagged on shower knobs.
Belonging to the Oglala subtribe of the Lakota people, Reuben views this record not just as a personal achievement but as a way to bring pride to his family and tribe. “It’s exciting to hold this record,” he says, reflecting on the significance of his accomplishment.