Military grooming standards: Can you grow your hair out?

Hey, odd question here, but considering my options and I wanted to know - which military branch allows you to grow your hair out? It's really for my personal comfort and preference. I'd really appreciate any responses, please and thank you!

Sure, let's go over this. Each branch of the U.S. military has its own specific regulations for hair length and hairstyles, and it's important to know that failure to maintain these standards can result in both administrative and disciplinary action.

The U.S. Army, for example, requires that a male soldier's hair be tapered, with the top of the hair not exceeding 2 inches in bulk. The back of the hair must not touch the collar, and sideburns must be neatly trimmed.

In the U.S. Navy, male sailors' hair should be "neat, clean and well-groomed," and shouldn't be longer than 4 inches from the scalp and must be tapered in the back, although there is some leniency for braids and twists in a "neat and professional" manner.

The U.S. Air Force rules are similar to the Army's, with male airmen required to have hair "tapered, neat, and clean," and hair length not exceeding 2 inches in bulk.

The U.S. Marine Corps, often known for its stricter standards, requires men to keep their hair "neat and closely trimmed," wearing it zero to three inches in length.

Lastly, the U.S. Space Force follows the U.S. Air Force grooming standards, as the former is currently under the latter's Department of the Air Force.

However, it's important to note that these are guidelines primarily for men, as regulations for women’s hair length and styles are typically more lenient in all military branches. If you identify as a woman, you may have more flexibility when it comes to growing your hair out.

Again, each branch may have specific policies regarding hair length and hairstyles, so it's crucial to discuss this with a recruiter for the most accurate information.