How often do you have to cut your hair in the military?

Author: Adan Bauch I  |  Last update: Sunday, July 20, 2025

MALES: Haircuts, zero above the ear (skin), tapered on the sides, and hair length not to exceed 3 inches in length on top or 2 inches of bulk. Facial hair: clean shaven every day. Fresh/new haircut at least every 2 weeks.

How often does the military cut hair?

In the military, service members typically get haircuts every one to two weeks, depending on the branch of service and individual grooming standards. Each branch has specific regulations regarding hair length and style, which are designed to maintain a uniform appearance. For example:

Do you have to keep cutting your hair in the military?

You do not have to shave your head in the Army; however, you are required to keep your hair closely cropped, in what is known as a buzz cut. If you refuse to cut your hair to to the required standard, a friendly drill sergeant will do it for you.

How long can my hair be in the military?

When wearing the uniform or in a duty status, hairstyles/haircuts will have hair off the ears and above the collar. Hair will be no more than 2 inches in bulk, 4 inches in length and not to extend below the eyebrows when headgear is removed or show underneath when headwear is worn.

Do you have to shave every day in the military?

Military personnel must shave their faces regularly to ensure a clean-shaven appearance. Mustaches must be kept short and to not extend beyond the corners of the mouth. Beards are generally not permitted unless with the approval of a commanding officer for specific missions.

How United States Marines Haircuts Look Like - US Marine Recruits Recive New Marine Haircut

Why doesn't the Army allow beards?

Growing a beard in the military

Beards were prohibited across all branches for two reasons: Hygiene and the need for a good seal while wearing a gas mask.

Do you have to stay bald in the military?

Hair length and style

Men can have closely-trimmed or completely shaved hair. If closely trimmed hair does not part naturally, you may cut a straight part into the hair or style the hair with one part. Sideburns should not extend below the bottom opening of the ear.

Is 27 too old to join the military?

Each branch of the military has age limits to enlist in active duty: Air Force: 17 - 42. Army: 17 - 35. Coast Guard: 17 - 41.

What do military guys look for in a girl?

Military guys, just like anyone else, look for someone they can connect with emotionally, intellectually, and physically. They value qualities such as loyalty, understanding, and flexibility in their partners.

Can you refuse military haircut?

No, military personnel cannot refuse to get a haircut that complies with regulations. If an order is given to get a haircut, it is not open to debate or refusal.

How many haircuts do you get during bootcamp?

The recruits will see the barbers twice more before graduation as they receive another haircut midway through training and one right before graduation at which point they are allowed to have the top, sides and back all neatly trimmed. As of January, female recruits no longer are required to have their hair cut.

Can you have tattoos in the military?

The Army tattoo policy was updated and relaxed in 2022 but is still one of the most strict in the military. It prohibits any tattoos on the head, face, neck, wrists, hands, or above the t-shirt collar. Essentially, any visible body tattoos are prohibited.

Can I join the military without cutting my hair?

While men typically receive a “buzz cut” during basic training, women are allowed to keep their hair as long as it doesn't reach below their shoulders. After training, men can grow their hair out as long as it doesn't touch their collar.

How long are showers in basic training?

Y'all got your military uniform on? All right, shower time. You got three minutes.

How often do marines cut their hair?

There is no Marine Corps rule that dictates how often you have to get your hair cut. You cut your hair as often as you need to in order to stay within the regulations. Like female Marines, if you decide to get eccentric with your hairstyle you might have to cut your hair to get back within regulations.

What disqualifies you from the Army?

All interested individuals must clear a criminal background check and have no felony convictions. Individuals who have been convicted of a felony as an adult or juvenile for offenses involving violence, domestic violence, illegal drugs or sexual misconduct will be disqualified.

How long is boot camp?

You're ready to start becoming a Soldier. In 10 weeks, you'll be physically and mentally stronger than you've ever been, and ready to join the team that protects America.

Which military branch pays the most?

All branches of the U.S. military offer the same base pay based on rank and years of service. However, other factors can impact a military member's pay, including: Special pay: Some service members receive additional pay based on their job specialty or tasks performed.

Can a 70 year old join the military?

Unfortunately, the age limit for joining the military currently ranges from 17 to 41 years old.

Can a felon join the military?

Felony Offenses

Some states may downgrade certain felony convictions to misdemeanor offenses. If you've got a felony conviction on your record, you will find it nearly impossible to join the military. Felony convictions include aggravated assault, arson, burglary, narcotics possession, and manslaughter.

Can you join the military with ADHD?

Obtaining a medical waiver may help someone join the military if they have ADHD. The steps for obtaining a medical waiver may vary but generally begin when the person meets with a recruiter. They will discuss their ADHD history and complete specific medical forms.

Why do Soldiers get buzz cuts?

New recruits often receive the induction haircut as a right of passage on their first day of boot camp. The tradition of induction cuts in the military dates back to the Civil War. A buzz cut was implemented to prevent lice infestation among the soldiers who slept in close quarters.

Can I have a goatee in the Army?

Per AR 670-1, male Soldiers must maintain a clean-shaven face in uniform, or in civilian clothes while on duty. While mustaches are authorized, Soldiers must keep them neatly trimmed, tapered, and tidy. Handlebar mustaches, goatees, and beards are not authorized.

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