Military Haircuts: Regulations, Styles, and History

Military hairstyles are not merely an aesthetic choice; they embody discipline , hygiene , and health . Mandated by armed forces worldwide, these strict hairstyles have endured through the ages, from antiquity to the current standards of modern militaries. In this article, we explore the rules governing military hairstyles for men and women , their origins, and the most popular styles.

The Origins of the Military Haircut

The military haircut has its roots in antiquity . Roman legionaries were the first to adopt short hair for both practical and symbolic reasons. Haircuts evolved during the Middle Ages, but starting with the French Revolution, the army revived this tradition of ultra-short hair. This practice intensified during the World Wars and continues to this day.

Why Do Military Personnel Have to Wear Short Hair?

There are many reasons why military personnel must adopt short military hairstyles :

• Hygiene : Short hair helps prevent parasites like lice and makes maintenance easier in difficult conditions.
• Safety : Long hair can get caught in military equipment and obstruct vision.
• Discipline : The military haircut embodies rigor and uniformity within the ranks.

The Rules of the Military Haircut

The rules for military haircuts are very strict and vary slightly between different branches of the armed forces. For men, the haircut must not exceed 3 mm in length and must not exceed certain limits, such as the nape of the neck, which must be cut halfway between the ear and the shirt collar. Women, on the other hand, must have their hair tied back and cannot let it extend beyond the length of the shirt collar .

Military Haircut Styles

There are several popular styles of military men's haircuts :

• Buzz Cut : A very short, uniform cut, ideal for those who want low maintenance.
• Brush cut : Characterized by shorter hair on the sides and slightly longer hair on top.
• High and Tight : Very short on the sides and back, with a slightly longer top.
• Regulation Cut : A classic fade that is often seen in the US military.

Women and the Military Haircut

Female soldiers are not subject to the same strict rules as men, but they must also wear a practical hairstyle. Their hair must be tied back at all times with elastic bands and barrettes that are not visible. They may opt for a ponytail , provided it does not extend beyond the collar of their shirt.

Military Haircut: A Trend Beyond the Armed Forces

These days, the military haircut has become a popular trend beyond the ranks of the armed forces. Whether for ease of maintenance or a cleaner, more professional look, the military cut is appealing to more and more people, both civilians and professionals.

FAQ

Can women have long hair in the army?

Yes, but they must tie them to keep them away from the face and prevent them from interfering with wearing the helmet.

Can you choose your hairstyle in the French army?

Military personnel must adhere to strict rules, but they can choose from permitted styles, such as the buzz cut or the fade.

What are the consequences of not respecting the regulatory cutting procedure?

Soldiers risk disciplinary action for failing to comply with imposed hair standards.

The military haircut remains an essential element of military discipline, with strict rules and varied styles. Whether you're a future soldier or a civilian looking for a practical look, this cut embodies values ​​of rigor and professionalism.

Military headwear, such as the cap , bush hat , and beret , is just as important as a hairstyle. It symbolizes discipline and uniformity. The cap is ideal for formal occasions, the bush hat provides practical protection in harsh environments, while the beret embodies military elite. Each head covering, combined with a neat haircut, contributes to the image of rigor and cohesion of the troops.