Women in the U.S. Army now have the option to wear their hair differently

Originally, women in the Army were required to wear their hair in a tight bun.

A revision of that guideline means women can keep their hair either a bun, single ponytail, two braids or a single braid; locks, braids, twists or cornrows can come together in one or two braids or a ponytail; and braids or a ponytail can go as far down as the bottom of the shoulder blades.

There are exceptions on the length of the ponytail or braid for women doing tactical or physical training.

Highlights are also now allowed in natural colors, lipstick and nail polish allowed in “non-extreme” colors for women, earrings allowed for women in combat uniforms, and clear nail polish allowed for men.

One of the reasons for the change was the acknowledgment that daily wearing of tight buns can cause hair loss and headaches. Some women also complained that they were unable to wear certain helmets properly due to the required hair styles.

Some women adapted by shaving their heads, which was also against Army regulations. Completely shaved heads used to be against the rules that required hair to be at least 1/4 inch long. Not anymore.

Susan Saunders 5/21/21