Air Force Relaxes Women's Hair Guidelines

The U.S. Air Force Uniform Board has decided to update their policies on women's hair guidelines after receiving and considering feedback.

According to a press release from the U.S. Air Force, previous guidelines on braid length, ponytails, and bangs were causing "damage to hair, migraines and in some cases, hair loss."

The women's initiative team received feedback from thousands of women in the Air Force and brought the results to the uniform board for review. The Air Force prides themselves in maintaining a professional appearance, and the Air Force uniform board agreed that it was in the best interest of the Air Force to update the guidelines on women's hair.

“In addition to the health concerns we have for our Airmen, not all women have the same hair type, and our hair standards should reflect our diverse force,” said Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass. “I am pleased we could make this important change for our women service members.”

The new guidelines are set to go into effect in February. Women may now have braids or ponytails that match the length of a short sleeved shirt. Previously, women's hair could not go past their collar.

I'm sure most women could tell you that having your hair up for long periods of time can cause discomfort, especially if you have thick or long hair.

It's amazing to see the Air Force update their guidelines on hair for women so that everyone can feel more comfortable in their job.