The Unwritten Marine Corps Grooming Standards

The Marine Corps requires their members be well groomed.

The Marine Corps holds their members to high grooming standards. The grooming standards apply in nearly every situation, so it's necessary that a Marine abide by the standards.

Men's Hair

Men's hair must be closely cropped from zero length on the lower portion of the head. It may not exceed 3 inches extended on upper portion of the head. Sideburns must be cut in horizontal line no longer than 1/8 inch when fully extended. Hair coloring must complement original tones. No faddish haircuts are permitted.

Men's Facial Hair

Only a mustache is allowed. It must be within the area of the lip line and not exceed a length of 1/2 inch. Chest hair cannot protrude above the collar.

Women's Hair

Long hair may extend past the collar but must be fastened. Medium hair cannot extend past the bottom of the collar. Bangs are allowed but cannot fall into the line of sight. Wigs, braids and hair extensions must look conservative and natural compared to the original hair color. Hairpins must be inconspicuous. No faddish haircuts are permitted.

Face and Facial Accessories

No jewelry for men. One earring per ear for women. Women's cosmetics must be conservative and complement skin tones. No tattoos are permitted above the collar. Eyeglasses must be conservative. No dental caps (such as diamond jewels) and no visible chains are permitted.

Miscellaneous

For men, fingernails must be neatly trimmed with no nail polish. Women's fingernails cannot exceed 1/4 inch from fingertip and nail polish must complement skin tone. One ring is allowed per hand. Watches must be inconspicuous. No visible tattoos, pens, combs, cell phones or watch chains are permitted.

References

• Marines: Marine Corps Uniform Regulations
• Integrated Publishing: Grooming Standards