Pharrell Williams has stated that being a vampire is not the reason behind his youthful looks.

The US star is often the subject of internet jokes about how he has managed to age remarkably well over the last number of years.

The 40-year-old told Time Out, however, that contrary to internet humour, his looks are not down to being a vampire. He said:

"I'm willing to go on record as saying that I don't drink people's blood. How do I stay so young-looking for a 40-year-old? I wash my face."

Williams added that he is struggling to come to terms with his recent success, which has been accentuated by appearances on hit singles like 'Get Lucky' and 'Blurred Lines'.

He said: "Seriously, I find myself trying to be cool about it, but I'm really like... whoa! I've always produced music for artists who are going through this level of success, but I just didn't know it would be this crazy. I'm like a kid with a sweet tooth waking up in Willy Wonka's chocolate factory.

"Look, as a producer, I've always been the guy standing next to the guy, and I was happy with that. But the universe taps you on your shoulder and you realise that there's more in store for you. It's kind of like The Karate Kid."