Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has issued new guidance reaffirming the U.S. military’s clean-shaven standard, tightening regulations on facial hair waivers across all services. GROOMING-STANDARDS-FOR-FACIAL-HAIR
In his memorandum to Pentagon leadership and combatant commanders, Secretary Hegseth underscored that the military standard remains a neat, clean-shaven appearance to uphold “proper military appearance, safety, and uniformity.” While exceptions remain possible, the new policy narrows the scope of long-term waivers.
Key Changes in the Policy
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Medical Officer Review: All shaving waivers must include a written recommendation from a military medical officer, with the unit commander serving as final approval authority.
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Treatment Plans Required: Service members with approved shaving waivers must participate in a medical treatment plan.
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One-Year Limit: Commanders are directed to initiate separation proceedings for Service members who continue to require shaving waivers beyond one year of medical treatment.
The Secretary emphasized that while exceptions may be considered, consistency and fairness must guide their approval. He wrote, “The Department must remain vigilant in maintaining the grooming standards which underpin the warrior ethos.”
Implications for the Guard
This policy will affect National Guard members who currently serve with shaving profiles due to medical conditions such as Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (razor bumps). Under the new rules, those unable to resolve their condition within one year may face administrative separation.
Advocates note that this decision may disproportionately impact enlisted Guardsmen who have previously been able to serve honorably with longstanding waivers.
