Zayn Malik is almost unrecognisable without his beard

Former One Direction star Zayn Malik has shaved off his beard and the singer looks completely different.

The 24-year-old singing sensation was spotted in clean- shaven look when he stepped out for a drive in New York City, reported AceShowbiz.

The British hunk was joined by his pooch, a cute French bulldog.

Some of his fans have even dubbed him Benjamin Button, a popular movie character about a man who ages in reverse. It was played by Brad Pitt in the 2008 film "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button".

Malik previously also sent fans into a frenzy when he shaved his beard in September last year.