Why are SEALs allowed to grow beards?
Daniel Cobb
Updated on January 04, 2026
Beards remain, by and large, the distinctive hallmark of special operations forces in Afghanistan. They allow Afghans to distinguish regular U.S. and allied military units from special operations forces, the highly trained teams like the Green Berets and Navy SEALs.
Are SAS soldiers allowed beards?
Elite members of the SAS and SBS will now be allowed to keep the beards they grew during operations when they return home under new military rules. Traditionally, members of the special forces and their supporting regiments have been allowed to grow facial hair when on operations away from their barracks.Why do Navy SEALs shave their head?
Originally, one of the reasons for the induction haircut was to reduce the chances of disease among closely quartered recruits from different geographical areas (with varying immunities), such as head lice. Furthermore, short hair also prevents the enemy from grabbing a soldier with long hair and slashing his/her neck.Do SEALs have relaxed grooming standards?
Additionally, SEAL operators will adhere to Navy grooming standards and forego their relaxed grooming standards.Will the US military ever allow beards?
The only men lucky enough to be allowed beards now are special operations units such as Army Special Forces and Navy SEALs (as long as they are in Afghanistan at least).The History of the Tactical Beard
Why can't Marines have beards?
Growing a beard in the militaryBeards were prohibited across all branches for two reasons: Hygiene and the need for a good seal while wearing a gas mask.
Why can't police have beards?
Beards and sideburns are banned in all military and police forces since the early 20th century. A clean-shaved face is considered part of a spirit of order, hygiene and discipline. Stubble is also considered unacceptable and controlled with severity.Can Navy SEALs have tattoos?
As of March 2016, tattoos including full sleeves are acceptable. According to the Navy, only the head, face and scalp are off limits. The neck and behind the ear may have one tat but it should be restricted to one inch. Additionally, tattoos on the torso should not be visible through the white uniform shirt.Can a Navy SEAL grow a beard?
Traditionally, special operators such as the SEALs have been granted some leeway when it comes to haircuts, beards, and uniforms, due to their unique role.Are there any females Navy SEALs?
For the first time, a female sailor has successfully completed the grueling 37-week training course to become a Naval Special Warfare combatant-craft crewman — the boat operators who transport Navy SEALs and conduct their own classified missions at sea.How much do Navy Seals make?
Salary Ranges for Navy SealsThe salaries of Navy Seals in the US range from $15,929 to $424,998 , with a median salary of $76,394 . The middle 57% of Navy Seals makes between $76,394 and $192,310, with the top 86% making $424,998.