What Branches Of The Military Allow Beards

If you're considering joining the military, you may be wondering about the grooming standards and whether or not you'll be able to grow a beard. While most branches of the military have strict grooming standards, some do allow beards for religious or medical reasons. In this article, we'll go over which branches of the military allow beards and what you need to know about growing and maintaining a beard while in the military.

Table of Contents

1. Which Branches Allow Beards?
2. How to Grow a Beard in the Military
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Growing a Beard in the Military
4. Tips for Maintaining a Beard in the Military
5. FAQs
6. Hair Care for Bearded Service Members

Which Branches Allow Beards?

The branches of the military that allow beards are the Army, Air Force, and Navy. However, there are specific requirements and restrictions for growing a beard. In general, beards are only allowed for religious or medical reasons, and you must obtain a waiver to do so. The Marine Corps and Coast Guard do not allow beards, even for religious or medical reasons.

Army

The Army allows beards for religious or medical reasons, but you must obtain a waiver from your chain of command. The beard must be kept neat and trimmed and cannot interfere with the proper wear of protective equipment. The Army also has specific guidelines for mustaches, which must be neatly trimmed and cannot extend past the corners of the mouth.

Air Force

The Air Force allows beards for religious or medical reasons, but the length and style of the beard must be approved by your chain of command. The beard must be kept neat and trimmed, and cannot interfere with the proper wear of protective equipment. The Air Force also has specific guidelines for mustaches, which must be neatly trimmed and cannot extend past the corners of the mouth.

Navy

The Navy allows beards for religious or medical reasons, but you must obtain a waiver from your chain of command. The beard must be kept neat and trimmed and cannot interfere with the proper wear of protective equipment. The Navy also has specific guidelines for mustaches, which must be neatly trimmed and cannot extend past the corners of the mouth.

How to Grow a Beard in the Military

If you are considering growing a beard in the military, there are some important steps you need to take to ensure that you can do so legally and safely. Here's what you need to know:

Obtain a Waiver

Before you can grow a beard in the military, you must obtain a waiver from your chain of command. This waiver will allow you to grow and maintain a beard for religious or medical reasons. The waiver process can take some time, so it's important to start early and be prepared to provide documentation to support your request.

Follow Grooming Standards

Even if you have a waiver to grow a beard, you must still follow grooming standards and keep your beard neat and trimmed. Your beard cannot interfere with the proper wear of protective equipment, and you may be required to shave it off if it becomes a safety hazard. You will also need to follow specific guidelines for mustaches, which must be neatly trimmed and cannot extend past the corners of the mouth.

Maintain Good Hygiene

Beards can trap dirt and bacteria, so it's important to maintain good hygiene when growing a beard in the military. You should wash your beard regularly and use beard oil or balm to keep it soft and healthy. You may also need to trim your beard more frequently than you would if you were growing it outside of the military.

Step-by-Step Guide to Growing a Beard in the Military

If you're ready to grow a beard in the military, here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Obtain a waiver from your chain of command.
2. Start growing your beard, keeping it neatly trimmed and following grooming standards.
3. Maintain good hygiene by washing your beard regularly and using beard oil or balm.
4. Continue to follow grooming standards and maintain your beard as required by your chain of command.

Tips for Maintaining a Beard in the Military

Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy and well-groomed beard while in the military:

• Use a beard oil or balm to keep your beard soft and healthy.
• Wash your beard regularly to remove dirt and bacteria.
• Trim your beard more frequently than you would if you were growing it outside of the military.
• Follow grooming standards and keep your beard neatly trimmed.

FAQs

Can I grow a beard in the military?

If you have a religious or medical reason for growing a beard, you may be able to obtain a waiver to do so in the Army, Air Force, or Navy.

What are the requirements for growing a beard in the military?

If you have a waiver to grow a beard in the military, you must follow grooming standards and keep your beard neat and trimmed. Your beard cannot interfere with the proper wear of protective equipment, and you may be required to shave it off if it becomes a safety hazard.

Hair Care for Bearded Service Members

If you're growing a beard in the military, it's important to take care of your hair and scalp as well. Here are some tips for keeping your hair healthy and well-groomed:

• Wash your hair regularly with a gentle shampoo.
• Use a conditioner to keep your hair soft and moisturized.
• Get regular haircuts to keep your hair looking neat and professional.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can grow and maintain a beard while serving in the military. Remember to obtain a waiver and follow grooming standards, and take care of your beard and hair to stay healthy and professional.