Army Issues New Grooming Policy

The rules that address soldiers’ body composition, hairstyles, cosmetics, jewelry and standards for wearing the uniform and insignia are changing.

The service issued a directive that would focus on “discipline, professionalism and a commitment to the Army’s values,” the service said in a press release.

Soldiers will have until Oct. 15 to comply with the new regulations.

The list of changes that applies to female soldiers is considerably longer than that of their male counterparts’. Here are some key elements for women:

Hair:

• Ponytails must be no longer than six inches from the top of the collar and cannot be worn with dress or service uniforms;
• Braids, twists, locs and cornrows can be in a ponytail with up to two braids, each of which cannot exceed two inches in width.
• Styles with short sides and long tops cannot exceed two inches on top, and “must blend smoothly into the shorter sides.” Buns, braids, twists and ponytails are not permitted with this style.
• Hair coloring must be natural and “blend in a subtle manner.”
• False eyelashes and eyelash extensions are forbidden except for soldiers with medical exemptions.

Cosmetics:

Makeup must be conservative, with even skin tones and natural complexion. Any semi-permanent makeup must conform to makeup standards. Tattooed makeup and lipstick are forbidden, and only clear or skin-toned lip gloss is allowable.

Nails:

Cannot exceed a quarter inch in length and must be square or rounded in shape. Clear nail polish is allowed; colors are not.

Earrings:

Only one existing stud is allowed per earlobe. They must be plain and cannot exceed a quarter inch in diameter. Studs cannot be worn in the field, during deployment, or with PT uniforms.

Here are key elements for men:  

• Hair can be no longer than two inches on top and one inch on the sides.
• Hair coloring must be natural and “applied in a blended and subtle manner. Braids, twists, locs and cornrows are not permitted. Shaping or cutting designs into hair is also barred.
• Nails must be trimmed. Cosmetics and earrings are not allowed.

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