Army Announces New Grooming Standards for Uniformed Personnel
Updated Army regulations stipulate that women are prohibited from wearing lipstick or colored nail polish, and men must keep hair length to a maximum of two inches. (Photo illustration by Noga Ami-rav/Stars and Stripes)
In a move aimed at improving clarity and compliance, the Army has implemented new grooming standards for personnel in uniform. Key updates include restrictions on makeup and hair length, specifically emphasizing a more uniform appearance across the ranks.
Details of the New Regulations
The recent 14-page directive outlines specific guidelines for hair, nails, makeup, and earrings. Women are no longer permitted to wear nail polish in any color, while men are required to keep their hair to a maximum length of two inches. This change aims to address previously ambiguous regulations that made enforcement difficult.
Responses from Army Leadership
Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Weimer expressed that the previous regulations created confusion among soldiers. “The force is frustrated with ambiguous language, making it hard to enforce a standard,” he stated during a press briefing. The new rules are immediately effective but will not be enforceable for 30 days, giving soldiers time to adjust.
Hair Regulations and Guidelines
For female soldiers, hair must be arranged in a ponytail or in one or two braids not hanging more than six inches below the top of the combat uniform collar. If hair reaches the collar, it must be styled in a bun while wearing a dress uniform. This sets a clear, measurable guideline that can be easily observed.
Makeup and Nail Standards
Makeup is required to maintain a natural appearance, prohibiting colored lipstick. However, semi-permanent makeup is allowed. Women can wear only clear nail polish with nail lengths capped at a quarter inch, while men cannot exceed the length of their fingertips. Debates around nail products have reaffirmed that hardening solutions are permitted as long as they do not produce a shiny finish.
Earrings and Accessories
Earring regulations stipulate that only women may wear them, limited to one stud per earlobe made from gold, silver, diamond, or pearl. This further emphasizes the focus on uniformity and professionalism within the ranks.
Importance of Grooming Standards
While some may view the specifics of these regulations as trivial, Weimer emphasized their significance. “It’s about a commitment to standards,” he explained. Proper grooming reflects fitness, discipline, and readiness, essential qualities for troops both in garrison and in combat situations.
