Zayn Malik's Bad-Boy Transformation Will Make Your Heart Race

Updated on 1/12/2016 at 12:15 PM

Over the years we've seen Zayn Malik successfully morph from innocent, dapper One Directioner to certified solo eye candy. The former group member has practically grown up before our eyes. His shag-free skin and side-swooped skater locks have been traded for mysterious scruff, trendy buzz cuts, and eyebrows that put ours to shame (damn you, Zayn!).

Whether you've been loving his bad-boy persona or fancy his former swag, there's no denying that Zayn isn't exceptionally easy on the eyes. In honor of his 23rd birthday, we've put together a memoriam montage of Zayn's sexiest scowls, smiles, and enviable arches. Keep on scrolling to see his evolution!

2012

So innocent, so young. Before he grew the beard, Zayn was still the most dapper dude in One Direction with his undercut style.

2012

This boy can smize better than Tyra Banks.

2013

Zayn is a prime example of the saying, "Your brows should be sisters, not twins." Or brothers in his case.

2013

You'll notice that he's perfected his pose for optimal brow exposure.

2013

The tousled hair, the wild arches, the stubble . . . Zayn is like the British cousin of Kevin Richardson from the Backstreet Boys.

2013

This sexy stare should be considered a deadly weapon. We're sure even the moms are fainting at concerts.

2013

We can't resist a man with a mustache.

2013

Someone has been watching Zoolander to perfect that "blue steel" stare.

2014

Move over, man bun; the messy man bangs are going to be the biggest hair trend for 20-something crooners pretty soon.

2014

Is it just us, or is this mohawk look giving off Elvis vibes?

2015

This dirty-blond mohawk looked like it was inspired by the flame emoji. Hot!

2015

This gray beanie was the icing on top of this sexy, shaggy, lived-in look.