In brief
In a recent policy update, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that troops requiring shaving exemptions for longer than a year will face separation from service. Commanders are still granted the authority to issue waivers, but must now provide a medical treatment plan. This shake-up follows a broader revision in military grooming standards, especially noted within the Army's latest updates.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered that troops who need an exemption from shaving their facial hair for longer than a year should be discharged from the service.
While commanders are still able to issue exemptions from shaving, a policy maintained for decades, these waivers will now require a medical treatment plan, as outlined in a memo released on August 20. Troops needing treatment beyond one year will be separated from the military.
“The Department must remain vigilant in maintaining the grooming standards which underpin the warrior ethos,” Hegseth stated in his memo.
The majority of shaving waivers are granted for personnel diagnosed with pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB), a skin condition that causes irritation when hair curls back into the skin after shaving. This condition has a notable prevalence among Black men.
However, the memo does not specify what kinds of military treatments will be available for those affected by this new policy or whether the military will cover the costs of such treatments.
It remains ambiguous as to how this policy will address exceptions for special forces in operational settings or soldiers stationed in extreme cold environments, where shaving could pose health risks.
This announcement coincides with the Army's own updates to grooming standards directed towards enhancing uniform appearance, particularly modifying standards for female soldiers regarding hairstyles, nails, earrings, and makeup.
