News

COVID Hair Regulations

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jessica Montano
  • 55th Wing Public Affairs

Leadership across the Air Force and at Offutt Air Force Base released guidance on April 7 to allow servicemembers to deviate from personal grooming standards during the quarantine period of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-10). 

As the severity of the COVID-19 has continued to grow, many businesses and restaurants have changed their operating procedures and hours to minimize exposure and maintain facility cleanliness. The importance of social distancing has caused fitness centers and barber shops to completely close their doors to the public. 

Col. Gavin Marks, 55th Wing, has officially waived the standards for men’s hair length and bulk, as well as, women’s hair bulk as outlined in the Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel. 

“No changes are authorized to the existing rules on sideburns, hair styles, hair color, or facial hair,” said Marks. “At no time will relazed grooming standards interefere with the proper wearing of Air Force head gear, or present an unprofessional appearance in uniform.”
The exemption will remain in effect until May 7, 2020, unless revised by Marks.