Are male Soldiers authorized to wear earrings?

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 12:42:36 -0500

<p>Based on the (current) regulation below only...</p><p> </p><p>*If AR 670-1 has been updated with the new policies, please post link. If it is only exerts from articles, please refrain from including its content in this discussion. Thanks in advance</p><p>AR 670-1</p><p> </p><p>1–14. Wear of jewelry<br><br>c. Body piercing. </p><p>When on any Army installation or other places under Army control, soldiers may not attach, affix, or display objects, articles, jewelry, or ornamentation to or through the skin while they are in uniform, in civilian clothes on duty, or in civilian clothes off duty (this includes earrings for male soldiers). The only exception is for female soldiers, as indicated in paragraph 1–14d, below. (The term “skin” is not confined to external skin, but includes the tongue, <br>lips, inside the mouth, and other surfaces of the body not readily visible).</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>*other places under Army control- The Army takes over the Alamo Dome in San Antonio, TX for the All-American Bowl<br></p>

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 12:53 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 12:53:49 -0500

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 12:53 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 12:53:51 -0500

SSG Daniel D. <div><br></div><div>Whether technically authorized or not, please see Ann Landers advice on this issue 
</div><div><br></div><div>http://www.getkempt.com/bad-ideagood-idea/ann-landers-on-the-male-earring.php </div><div><br></div><div>"Ann Landers (1984): Dear Loo: When a man is straight, whether the earring is in the left ear or the right ear, it has no special significance. With gay males, however, I am told there is a specific meaning. An earring worn in the left ear signifies the wish to be the dominant party in a relationship. When the earring is worn in the right ear the male is making it known he prefers to play the submissive role. I am told that this code is said to be understood by homosexuals all over the world." [modified per the very kind suggestion of SSG Daniel Davenport (below)]</div><div><br></div><div><div style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">So, authorized or not the wearing of male earrings may convey an unintended message in certain specific cultural settings at home and abroad.</div></div><div><br></div><div><div>My intent is only to point out that while male earrings may or may not be authorized, there may be cultural variations across the world where the male earring code may convey an unintended message in an unintended context. We wouldn't want the message conveyed by the uniform to be anything other than what we fully and completely intend to communicate.</div><div><br></div><div>Warmest Regards, Sandy</div></div><div><br></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(77, 77, 77); font-size: 12px; ">Based on my own experience in women, a single earring is often a friendship token from a BFF.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(77, 77, 77); font-size: 12px; ">A few other interpretations in other settings from the article:<p style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; min-height: 17px; ">From “Frankfort, Ky.” (1984): Dear Ann Landers: I wear an earring in my right ear and have since 1967. It is a secret code started by those of us who were opposed to the war in Vietnam. Since the trouble started in Central America several of us have had a second piercing in the same ear and wear two earrings to signify our resentment of this senseless involvement.</p><p style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; min-height: 17px; ">From “An Umpire In The Empire State” (1984): Dear Ann Landers: In all states east of the Hudson an earring in the right ear of a male means he is divorced and “looking.” I am surprised that a gal as hip as you didn’t know this.</p><p style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; min-height: 17px; ">From “Vallejo Reader” (1984): In California, … an earring in the left ear means, “I am a Democrat.” An earring in the right ear means, “I am a Republican.” </p><p style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; min-height: 17px; ">I am certain there must be many other interpretations in other parts of the world.</p><p style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; min-height: 17px; "><br></p></span></div><div class="pta-link-card"><div class="pta-link-card-picture"><img src="http://static.getkempt.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/annlanders_crop.jpg"></div><div class="pta-link-card-content"><div class="pta-link-card-title"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.getkempt.com/bad-ideagood-idea/ann-landers-on-the-male-earring.php">Ann Landers On: The Male Earring</a></div><div class="pta-link-card-description">Certain questions regarding matters of gentlemanly style and grace have repeated themselves for decades. Case in point: on three separat</div></div><div style="clear:both"></div><div class="pta-box-hide"><i class="icon-remove"></i></div></div>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 3:38 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 15:38:01 -0500

last I heard over a year or so ago that it don't matter whether you're in uniform or not, NO EARINGS. Once you leave service, do whatever you please.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 4:06 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 16:06:33 -0500

Fellow service members that are commenting on this discussion, please read the regulation that is listed above. He clearly lists an Army regulation and is asking if it is allowed for males to wear earrings. Responding to the posts with either "hear say" or your "opinion" on why its not authorized is inconclusive to those who are looking for information or guidance. Please provide a reference or two when responding to these posts, a well educated NCO/Officer can better lead our younger service members.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 5:32 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 17:32:15 -0500

Yes, when off duty and off military grounds. That's my knowledge base on the regulation. Now, If I see a subordinate on mine with earrings of base and in civies I do have the authority to tell him to take it off if it's detrimental to good order/conduct.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 6:14 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 18:14:55 -0500

As per the AR 670-1

Body piercing. When on any Army installation or other places under Army control, soldiers may not attach, affix, or display objects, articles, jewelry, or ornamentation to or through the skin while they are in uniform, in civilian clothes on duty, or in civilian clothes off duty (this includes earrings for male soldiers). The only exception is for

female soldiers, as indicated in paragraph 1–14

d, below. (The term “skin” is not confined to external skin, but includes

the tongue, lips, inside the mouth, and other surfaces of the body not readily visible).

NO, male sloldiers are not allowed to wear earrings at all. They can not wear them on post, they can not wear them off post. They can not wear them on duty, or off duty

AR 670-1: Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia (Part 1) - AllArmyRegulations

Part One General Information and Responsibilities Chapter 1: Introduction 1-1. Purpose This regulation prescribes the authorization for wear, composition, and classification of uniforms, and the occas...

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jan 29 at 2014 6:19 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 18:19:28 -0500

The answer to your question is already in the excerpt you provided from AR 670-1. By the regulation, there is no prohibition against earrings out of uniform, so long as you are off military property.

Having said that, I'd advise you to check your local base policy letters.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Jan 29 at 2014 9:16 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 21:16:01 -0500

No, males are not.  However, it's rarely enforced.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 9:30 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 21:30:35 -0500

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Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 9:31 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 21:31:28 -0500

SSG Davenport,

As per the regulation that you posted with the question, it seems clear to me (who is not a lawyer, but I enjoy the study of "lawyering" so to speak) that it is not authorized.

That being said, I would like to throw my own spin of this question out there. How far can UCMJ lawfully restrict our rights as given by the constitution? Is there any limit? If we were civilians, we would and should be outraged by a law like this. I understand the need for professionalism, but isn't this taking it a bit to far?

What about when a BN Commander wont allow me to have a PERSONAL firearm in the DC/VA/MD area, even if it's stored off of government property, and never enters government property, and I only use it while off duty? That is actually a very clear breach of the NDAA. That is a completely different issue, but my point is when is "enough" actually "enough".

Just my $0.02

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 9:45 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 21:45:56 -0500

670-1 states where the rule applies - military installation or any area under military control. Then it goes on to talk about when in uniform and when in civilian clothes either on or off duty.

The way the reg is written it leaves some grey area that some Soldiers will use to their advantage. Some will say that you can wear them if not on a military base or in an area controlled by the military. The way the regulation is written it can be interpreted as they can be worn off base or not at all.

Because of this grey area most installations or major commands post blue books or other policy letters making male earrings black and white. Most of these will clearly state that males will not wear earrings.

The regulation leaves a little bit to be desired when it comes to black and white but most installations/commands clear it up by banning them outright regardless of the area or form of attire.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 10:03 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 22:03:13 -0500

AR 670-1 has provided males 3 circumstances in which they cannot attach, affix, or display objects, articles, jewelry, or ornamentation to or through the skin:<br>1. in uniform;<br>2. in civilian clothes on-duty;<br>3. in civilian clothes off-duty;<br>and continues to clarify that this includes earrings for male Soldiers.<br><br>I guess we can expect to start seeing a lot of nude male Soldiers running around with their overwhelming desire to wear earrings.<br><br>It would be even easier if AR 670-1 just said "Males are not authorized wear earrings or body piercings of any type."<br>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2014 11:05 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 23:05:13 -0500

Fellow service members, I offer this breakdown of the regulation utilizing the commas to put in outline format;

A. When on any Army installation or other places under Army control,

1. soldiers may not attach, affix, or display

a. objects, articles, jewelry, or ornamentation

2. to or through the skin

a. while they are in uniform,

b. in civilian clothes on duty,

c. or in civilian clothes off duty

(this includes earrings for male Soldiers)

**Agree or disagree, you must admit that this is a pretty good outline of the reg**

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 9:13 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 09:13:51 -0500

I'm a little unsure of what you're asking here. If you're asking "generally" can male soldiers wear earrings, then the answer is yes. The regulation excerpt you attached only states male soldiers cannot wear earrings under those circumstances ON POST, with the exception of being in uniform (males cannot wear earrings while in uniform).

Response by MSG Martin C. made Jan 30 at 2014 11:06 AM

MSG Martin C. — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 11:06:57 -0500

The regulation is very specific about it. But you just need
to remember that there are local policies in place that apply and one must
comply. The perception of what is professional
and what’s not can be distorted by the individuals views or beliefs. As an NCO we must understand the regulations,
enforce them and never add our own input. I personally can care less what items
you attach to your skin on your off duty time as long as you follow the AR and
local command policy.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2014 8:54 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 08:54:39 -0500

Not sure why they would want too, but its ok for them to wear it off post.....unless I see em

Response by CSM David Hopkins made Mar 9 at 2014 9:39 PM

CSM David Hopkins — Sun, 09 Mar 2014 21:39:25 -0400

SSG Davenport, Currently the regulation only prohibits the wearing of earrings by male Soldiers while on the installation, while in uniform, and while in duty in civilian clothes off the installation. Obviously I have not actually seen the new AR 670-1 that is supposedly weeks away from being released, but the emails from too Army officials I have received, alludes to the fact that once published, the regulation will prohibit males from wearing them, ever. Just look for the new regulation and read it to understand exactly what the changes are.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2014 3:43 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 03:43:37 -0400

.d^_^b. Hehehehe

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2014 7:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 31 Mar 2014 19:41:54 -0400

I dont know why this popped up in my new discussion thread, however with the publication of AR 670-1 dated 31 March 2014 Males are not authorized any body piercings, to include earrings. And with the new changes this is a punative part of the regulation.

Para 3-4

c. Attaching, affixing or displaying objects, articles, jewelry, or ornamentation to, through, or under their skin, tongue, or any other body part is prohibited (this includes earrings for male Soldiers). This applies to all Soldiers on or off duty. The only exception is for female Soldiers, who may wear earrings consistent with paragraph 3–4 d. (The term “skin” is not confined to external skin but includes the tongue, lips, inside the mouth, and other surfaces of the body not readily visible.)

Response by SFC Michael W. made Jun 22 at 2014 10:34 PM

SFC Michael W. — Sun, 22 Jun 2014 22:34:48 -0400

As far as male soldiers are concerned about wearing earrings while on duty and in uniform the answer is No...plain and simple. I don't care how much they cry about being equal, no is No!

Response by SFC Michael W. made Jan 8 at 2015 9:25 PM

SFC Michael W. — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 21:25:19 -0500

Okay, here's where you're going to run into issues with this because a lot of personnel in here are quoting the military regs verbatim. Everyone is quick about the regs, but at the same time knows the military does not always follows them entirely. For example, the military regs states that you will not consume alcohol while on duty...last time I've checked you're on duty 24/7 (25/8 if you're a Noncommissioned Officer!) yet during lunchtime how many times have you seen a service member at the bowling alley having a beer while bowling and still in uniform? Everyone has! And if you say you have not you're lying!

And, during a Battalion or Brigade organization day, how many times have you seen beer served during that function? Now, I know the commander always place a "restrictions" on the amount of alcohol to drink, but still that's against the regs and like someone said earlier that it varies at installations.

I know my examples are not about earrings, I'm just utilizing these two because when someone quotes regulations and policies you have to be "careful" how you present it because you might be politically incorrect because if that's the case then NO ONE can be allowed in the military if they have a tattoo because that IS a form of body piercing and it is affixed to and thru the skin 24/7.

Response by SPC Christopher Perrien made Jan 5 at 2016 11:10 PM

SPC Christopher Perrien — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 23:10:36 -0500

Many unit SOP's and maintenance manuals mentioned not wearing extraneous jewelry or metal to reduce electrical shock and snag hazards. This in on top of Ar-670-1 for uniform standards under orderly appearance. So no, and if so ordered under occupation safety in performance of duties also, besides 670-1. Check out your TM's.

IIRC, it was only allowable , off-post, off duty and not in uniform. This may have been written post policy too. This was the 1980's. But It does not look like the reg has changed any either.

Personally , I still don't wear rings, I saw a guy lose his ring finger to a M-60 Tank 300 amp battery system and a wedding ring.

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Apr 18 at 2017 11:34 AM

SSgt Michael Cox — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 11:34:39 -0400

Stop trying to read between the lines. The regulation clearly stats that you as a male can not wear earrings. Just because you want us to try and find a loop hole for you doesn't mean you get to whine about it. Follow the regulations and leave the jewelry for the women. As per all jewelry you can wear your religious necklace and class ring, a wedding band, and a simple bracket. That's it.

Response by SSG James Swarr made Apr 18 at 2017 12:49 PM

SSG James Swarr — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 12:49:58 -0400

This is apparently a very old post....so after research and as far as I can tell the last updated AR 670-1 dated 10 APR 2015....without quoting word for word....males are NOT allowed to wear earrings on OR OFF duty at anytime...section 3-4 Jewelry pages 11 and 12.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2017 12:56 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 12:56:35 -0400

It won't be long before this standard changes as well, given the current social climate. For me, I couldn't care less about what people wear out of uniform off post. I'll enforce the regulations, of course, but I fail to see the point of this rule. To me it's the same as saying Soldiers must shave while on leave. I mean, seriously, who will be enforcing that? We should care about more important things.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2017 11:53 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 May 2017 11:53:29 -0400

I see many conflicting opinions you this subject ask the time. Actually had a soldier show up with earrings in prior to accountability formation. AR 670-1 prohibits earrings on duty, in uniform. Many post regulations bar earrings for males on post regardless if on/off duty. I use to wear earrings off duty/post when I was younger because I wanted to look cool. Now a little older, more wiser I think it's about maturity and professionalism. I want people to see me regardless if I'm on/off duty, DOING THE RIGHT THING. Living in Fort Bragg's predominantly military community, eyes are always on you. And people know who military and civilian around here. So if somebody felt obliged to correct you regardless of in/out uniform, then they will. I've seen CSM's & other senior NCO's correcting people at Walmart, of all places. So you really have to use good judgement if you want to suit up and boot up on the weekends at a social gathering (clubs, bars, house parties) with a pair of bling in your ear. Because you might not get a likable response.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2017 4:50 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Sep 2017 04:50:40 -0400

So according to the new regulation which no One has really addressed you are allowed to wear earings as a male and female. Now this is only off duty. The source of this can be found in AR 670-1 May 2017 chapter 3-4 d (4)(4) When male and female Soldiers are not in uniform and off duty, earring wear is not restricted as long as the ear- rings do not create or support ear gauging (enlarged holes in the lobe of the ear, greater than 1.6mm).
e. Ankle bracelets, toe rings, necklaces (other than those described in paragraph 3–15), faddish (trendy) devices, me- dallions, amulets, and personal talismans or icons are not authorized for wear while in uniform or in civilian clothes on duty.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Sep 30 at 2017 9:29 AM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Sat, 30 Sep 2017 09:29:15 -0400

I was at Fort Lee, VA. For Cook and Baker school and one of the Army Cooks was goofing around and took a plastic bottle ring from a bleach jug and cut it so he could attach it to his ear and got a scarf from one of the Civilian female workers and wrapped on his head to give the appearance of a pirate .., it was around Halloween and we were just having a good few minutes of break.. He was really good.. A female officer and another officer were passing by on the walk that went by the dock and seen his display,
She didn't like the Accent and didn't like the fake ear-ring , he was out of uniform
No proper cover or uniform shirt. She racked up a bunch of charges on him..
I really didn't catch the ethnic intimidation
after all he was of Spanish ancestry. She said he disrespected his own Spanish ancestry by acting like a pirate.. this was the first I really heard of ethnic intimidation.. political correctness? The Commandant at the School gave him a slide on that, That Captain wasn't so forgiving but she kinda let it go.. we were just watching and laughing.. so nothing happened against us. Our AF detachment Cmdr. Got a letter and said it's a Army matter, you were just there, you just observed.. I wouldn't worry about it..
The soldier didn't cut a hole in his ear, just barely bruised it(she said he damaged government property.. the ring was sanitary it was off a bleach bottle.. so he got a little letter of counsel over that, she wanted a Article 15.. The Mess Steward; his immediate Supervisor pleaded it down to a letter of counsel.. that was good, he put on SSG that November 1. Plus it opened up the chance to re-up. He'd of lost both of those.. This was back in '71, I don't know How close to retirement he was.. maybe 10 months before it? He was Army so you ol' Veterans and current Soldiers can explain that.. I know retainability standards for all services has changed, maybe made more uniform about up or out.. What part of Command position she held I don't remember.. it was
A while back, eh?.. maybe just another staff officer holding down a post. (Everybody is a spoke in the wheel and has some importance and significance).

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Apr 6 at 2018 4:57 PM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Fri, 06 Apr 2018 16:57:40 -0400

Recruiters need to have these new recruits read the regulation and acknowledge they read it and sign on
The line. Insert with their enlistment package and movedlater to their 201
File to follow them as long s they are in the service. And forever after they need not ever have to ask again. And should they decide to don a ear ring or rings
And are hauled in front of their 1SGT, heir she can haul out their 201 and show them the letter they signed that shows they are aware of the regulation. And then appropriate paperwork can be filed to charge them with damaging government property.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2019 8:18 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 May 2019 08:18:24 -0400

Dudes look retarded wearing ear rings

Response by SGT Debra McDonough Travis made Jun 15 at 2019 11:57 AM

SGT Debra McDonough Travis — Sat, 15 Jun 2019 11:57:49 -0400

Here is the reg. I'm sorry it is so long. HCDMAG.COM
AR 670-1: 3-2. Hair and Fingernail Standards and Grooming Policies

Note: This paragraph is punitive with regard to Soldiers. Violation by Soldiers may result in adverse administrative action and/or charges under the provisions of the UCMJ.

Hair
General. The requirement for hair grooming standards is necessary to maintain uniformity within a military population. Many hairstyles are acceptable, as long as they are neat and conservative. It is the responsibility of leaders at all levels to exercise good judgment when enforcing Army policy. All Soldiers will comply with hair, fingernail, and grooming policies while in any military uniform, or in civilian clothes on duty.

Leaders will judge the appropriateness of a particular hairstyle by the guidance in this chapter and by the ability to wear all types of headgear (such as beret, patrol cap, or service cap/hat) and any protective equipment (such as protective mask or combat helmet) properly. Hairstyles (including bulk and length of hair) that do not allow Soldiers to wear any headgear properly, or that interfere with the proper wear of any protective equipment, are prohibited. Headgear will fit snugly and comfortably, without bulging or distortion from the intended shape of the headgear and without excessive gaps. Hairstyles that pose a health or safety hazard are not authorized.
Extreme, eccentric, or faddish haircuts or hairstyles are not authorized. If Soldiers use dyes, tints, or bleaches, they must choose a natural hair color. Colors that detract from a professional military appearance are prohibited. Therefore, Soldiers must avoid using colors that result in an extreme appearance. Applied hair colors that are prohibited include, but are not limited to, purple, blue, pink, green, orange, bright (fire-engine) red, and fluorescent or neon colors. It is the responsibility of leaders to use good judgment in determining if applied colors are acceptable, based upon the overall effect on a Soldier’s appearance.

Soldiers who have a texture of hair that does not part naturally may cut a part into the hair or style the hair with one part. The part will be one straight line, not slanted or curved, and will fall in the area where the Soldier would normally part the hair. Soldiers will not shape or cut designs into their hair or scalp.
Male haircuts
The hair on top of the head must be neatly groomed. The length and bulk of the hair may not be excessive and must present a neat and conservative appearance.

The hair must present a tapered appearance. A tapered appearance is one where the outline of the Soldier’s hair conforms to the shape of the head (see scalp line in figure 3–1), curving inward to the natural termination point at the base of the neck.

When the hair is combed, it will not fall over the ears or eyebrows, or touch the collar, except for the closely cut hair at the back of the neck. The block-cut fullness in the back is permitted to a moderate degree, as long as the tapered look is maintained.

Males are not authorized to wear braids, cornrows, twists, dreadlocks, or locks while in uniform or in civilian clothes on duty. Haircuts with a single, untapered patch of hair on the top of the head (not consistent with natural hair loss) are considered eccentric and are not authorized. Examples include, but are not limited to, when the head is shaved around a strip of hair down the center of the head (mohawk), around a u-shaped hair area (horseshoe), or around a patch of hair on the front top of the head (tear drop).

Hair that is completely shaved or trimmed closely to the scalp is authorized. (See figs 3–1 and 3–2.)

Sideburns.
Sideburns are hair grown in front of the ear and below the point where the top portion of the ear attaches to the head. Sideburns will not extend below the bottom of the opening of the ear (see line A of fig 3–1). Sideburns will not be styled to taper, flair, or come to a point. The length of the individual hairs of the sideburn will not exceed 1/8 inch when fully extended.

Facial hair.
Males will keep their face clean-shaven when in uniform, or in civilian clothes on duty. Mustaches are permitted. If worn, males will keep mustaches neatly trimmed, tapered, and tidy. Mustaches will not present a chopped off or bushy appearance, and no portion of the mustache will cover the upper lip line, extend sideways beyond a vertical line drawn upward from the corners of the mouth (see lines C and D of fig 3–1), or extend above a parallel line at the lowest portion of the nose (see line B of fig 3–1). Handlebar mustaches, goatees, and beards are not authorized. If appropriate medical authority allows beard growth, the maximum length authorized for medical treatment must be specific. For example, “The length of the beard cannot exceed 1/4 inch” (see Training Bulletin Medical (TB Med) 287). Soldiers will keep the growth trimmed to the level specified by the appropriate medical authority, but are not authorized to shape the hair growth (examples include, but are not limited to goatees, “Fu Manchu,” or handlebar mustaches).

Wigs and hairpieces.
Males are prohibited from wearing wigs or hairpieces while in uniform, or in civilian clothes on duty, except to cover natural baldness or physical disfiguration caused by accident or medical procedure. When worn, wigs or hairpieces will conform to the standard haircut criteria, as stated within this regulation.

Female haircuts and hairstyles
The illustrations provided in figure 3–3 are intended only to clarify language regarding authorized hair lengths and bulks. The requirements for hair regulations are to maintain uniformity within a military population for female Soldiers while in uniform, or in civilian clothes on duty, unless otherwise specified.

Female hairstyles may not be eccentric or faddish and will present a conservative, professional appearance. For the purpose of these regulations, female hairstyles are organized into three basic categories: short length, medium length, and long length hair.

Short length
Short hair is defined as hair length that extends no more than 1 inch from the scalp (excluding bangs). Hair may be no shorter than 1/4 inch from the scalp (unless due to medical condition or injury), but may be evenly tapered to the scalp within 2 inches of the hair line edges. Bangs, if worn, may not fall below the eyebrows, may not interfere with the wear of all headgear, must lie neatly against the head, and not be visible underneath the front of the headgear. The width of the bangs may extend to the hairline at the temple.

Medium length
Medium hair is defined as hair length that does not extend beyond the lower edge of the collar (in all uniforms), and extends more than 1 inch from the scalp. Medium hair may fall naturally in uniform, and is not required to be secured. When worn loose, graduated hair styles are acceptable, but the length, as measured from the end of the total hair length to the base of the collar, may not exceed 1 inch difference in length, from the front to the back. Layered hairstyles are also authorized, so long as each hair’s length, as measured from the scalp to the hair’s end, is generally the same length giving a tapered appearance. The regulations for the wear of bangs detailed in paragraph 3–2a(a), apply. No portion of the bulk of the hair, as measured from the scalp, will exceed 2 inches.

Long length
Long hair is defined as hair length that extends beyond the lower edge of the collar. Long hair will be neatly and inconspicuously fastened or pinned above the lower edge of the collar (except when worn in accordance with para 3–2a(j)), except that bangs may be worn. The regulations for the wear of bangs detailed in paragraph 3–2a(3)(a) apply. No portion of the bulk of the hair, as measured from the scalp as styled, will exceed 2 inches (except a bun, which is worn on the back of the head and may extend a maximum of 3 1/2 inches from the scalp and be no wider than the width of the head).

Additional hairstyle guidelines
Faddish and exaggerated styles, to include shaved portions of the scalp other than the neckline, designs cut in the hair, unsecured ponytails (except during physical training), and unbalanced or lopsided hairstyles are prohibited. Hair will be styled so as not to interfere with the proper wear of all uniform headgear. All headgear will fit snugly and comfortably around the largest part of the head without bulging or distortion from the intended shape of the headgear and without excessive gaps. When headgear is worn, hair should not protrude at distinct angles from under the edges. Hairstyles that do not allow the headgear to be worn in this manner are prohibited. Examples of hairstyles considered to be faddish or exaggerated and thus not authorized for wear while in uniform or in civilian clothes on duty include, but are not limited to hair sculpting (eccentric texture or directional flow of any hairstyle to include spiking); buns with loose hair extending at the end; hair styles with severe angles or designs; and loose unsecured hair (not to include bangs) when medium and long hair are worn up.

Devices
Hair holding devices are authorized only for the purpose of securing the hair. Soldiers will not place hair holding devices in the hair for decorative purposes. All hair holding devices must be plain and of a color as close to the Soldier’s hair as is possible or clear. Authorized devices include, but are not limited to, small plain scrunchies (elastic hair bands covered with material), barrettes, combs, pins, clips, rubber bands, and hair/head bands. Such devices should conform to the natural shape of the head. Devices that are conspicuous, excessive, or decorative are prohibited. Some examples of prohibited devices include, but are not limited to: large, lacy scrunchies; beads, bows, or claw or alligator clips; clips, pins, or barrettes with butterflies, flowers, sparkles, gems, or scalloped edges; and bows made from hairpieces. Foreign material (for example, beads and decorative items) will not be used in the hair. Soldiers may not wear hairnets unless they are required for health or safety reasons, or in the performance of duties (such as those in a dining facility). No other type of hair covering is authorized in lieu of the hairnet. The commander will provide the hairnet at no cost to the Soldier.

Braids, cornrows, and twists
Medium and long hair may be styled with braids, cornrows, or twists (see glossary for definitions). Each braid, cornrow, or twist will be of uniform dimension, have a diameter no greater than 1/2 inch, and present a neat, professional, and well-groomed appearance. Each must have the same approximate size of spacing between the braids, cornrows, or twists. Each hairstyle may be worn against the scalp or loose (free-hanging). When worn loose, such hairstyles must be worn per medium hair length guidelines or secured to the head in the same manner as described for medium or long length hair styles. Ends must be secured inconspicuously. When multiple loose braids or twists are worn, they must encompass the whole head. When braids, twists, or cornrows are not worn loosely and instead worn close to the scalp, they may stop at one consistent location of the head and must follow the natural direction of the hair when worn back, which is either in general straight lines following the shape of the head or flowing with the natural direction of the hair when worn back with one primary part in the hair (see para 3–2a(1)(c)). Hairstyles may not be styled with designs, sharply curved lines, or zigzag lines. Only one distinctive style (braided, rolled, or twisted) may be worn at one time. Braids, cornrows, or twists that distinctly protrude (up or out) from the head are not authorized.

Dreadlocks or locks
Any style of dreadlock or lock (against the scalp or free-hanging) is not authorized (see glossary for definition).

Hair extensions
Hair extensions are authorized. Extensions must have the same general appearance as the individual’s natural hair and otherwise conform to this regulation.

Wigs
Wigs, if worn in uniform or in civilian clothes on duty, must look natural and conform to this regulation. Wigs are not authorized to cover up unauthorized hairstyles.

Physical training
Long length hair, as defined in paragraph 3–2a(3)(c), may be worn in a pony tail during physical training. A single pony tail centered on the back of the head is authorized in physical fitness uniforms only when within the scope of physical training, except when considered a safety hazard. The pony tail is not required to be worn above the collar. When hair securing devices are worn, they will comply with the guidelines set in paragraph
3–2a(3)(e). Hairstyles otherwise authorized in this chapter (such as braids and twists) may also be worn in a pony tail during physical training.

Physical training in utility uniforms
Pony tails are authorized using guidelines set forth in paragraph 3–2a(3)(j), while conducting physical training in utility uniforms. However, if the helmet is worn during physical training, hair must be secured using guidelines in paragraph 3–2a(3)(a) through (k).

Cosmetics & Makeup
Standards regarding cosmetics are necessary to maintain uniformity and to avoid an extreme or unprofessional appearance. Males are prohibited from wearing cosmetics, except when medically prescribed. Females are authorized to wear cosmetics with all uniforms, provided they are applied modestly and conservatively, and that they complement both the Soldier’s complexion and the uniform. Leaders at all levels must exercise good judgment when interpreting and enforcing this policy.

Eccentric, exaggerated, or faddish cosmetic styles and colors, to include makeup designed to cover tattoos, are inappropriate with the uniform and are prohibited. Permanent makeup, such as eyebrow or eyeliner, is authorized as long as the makeup conforms to the standards outlined above. Eyelash extensions are not authorized unless medically prescribed.

Females will not wear shades of lipstick that distinctly contrast with the natural color of their lips, that detract from the uniform, or that are faddish, eccentric, or exaggerated.

Females will comply with the cosmetics policy while in any military uniform or while in civilian clothes on duty.

Fingernails
All personnel will keep fingernails clean and neatly trimmed. Males will keep nails trimmed so as not to extend beyond the fingertip unless medically required and are not authorized to wear nail polish. Females will not exceed a nail length of 1⁄4 inch as measured from the tip of the finger. Females will trim nails shorter if the commander determines that the longer length detracts from a professional appearance, presents a safety concern, or interferes with the performance of duties. Females may only wear clear polish when in uniform or while in civilian
clothes on duty. Females may wear clear acrylic nails, provided they have a natural appearance and conform to Army standards.

Hygiene and body grooming
Soldiers will maintain good personal hygiene and grooming on a daily basis and wear the uniform so as not to detract from their overall military appearance.
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Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Feb 28 at 2020 8:47 PM

Sgt Dale Briggs — Fri, 28 Feb 2020 20:47:47 -0500

It’s not authorized, and your out of uniform, It’s not that hard. At 1600 knock yourself out.

Response by SSG George Holtje made Mar 11 at 2020 11:24 PM

SSG George Holtje — Wed, 11 Mar 2020 23:24:10 -0400

No. Get over it.
Front page of Star and Stripes in July 97 “Army Sticks it to Soldiers”
Is drilling a hole in your flesh, hanging an ornament from it and drawing attention to yourself really that important?
Are you trying to show that your different?
You’re not different with one earring. You need a whole colony of earrings or a cage with a live animal hanging from your ear.
I had an earring when I was 16. I took it out when I was old enough to realize it was a silly thing to worry about.(21 or so).
If you’re E-4 or below, worry about your job, PT score, correspondence courses, marksmanship and if some drunk yutz is playing with the fire extinguishers than a doodad in your ear(or nose or tongue or lip or wherever)

Response by PO1 John Crafton made Mar 11 at 2022 4:08 PM

PO1 John Crafton — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 16:08:08 -0500

No. Not in uniform, and not on base/installation. As per the regs.

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Mar 11 at 2022 4:31 PM

Sgt Dale Briggs — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 16:31:00 -0500

Off base on your time who would care it’s not 1975 anymore, but in uniform, lol, hell no.