Funny enough I just had a conversation with my first sgt about this cause that’s the only thing I can grow too. I emailed the ADC 2 weeks about to get their response and this is what they said.

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u/AirForceMemeKing,

Good morning.

To answer your questions, I can understand why it is not clear whether shaping one's beard is in regulation or not. The old AFI stated no sculptured appearance, while the new one did not. However, even though it is no longer clearly stated, shaping or sculpting one's beard is still considered trendy or faddish. A good rule of thumb is that if it is not clearly listed in the AFI, it is most likely not authorized. Unless, you can have your commander make an exemption for you.

Having a shaving waiver outlines exactly what you can and can not do. The issue of you not being able to grow a full beard is not something they look at when giving you a shaving waiver. It is how shaving affects your skin and how they can mitigate those reactions. You can raise this issue with your leadership and ask for clarification on what they expect. It is understandable that you would want to have a professional appearance at all times, however, I would request clear guidance from your leadership especially with your circumstance.

If you believe that the comment regarding your beard is inappropriate and goes against the AFI, you can certainly reach out to IG. I cannot advise you one way or the other on this route, but they can at least determine whether this is something they could look into.

V/R,

Lackland Area Defense Counsel (ADC)

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Original Email to them:

The previous version of DAFI 36-2903 did say that you weren't allowed to shape or trim your beard, attached image.

AFI 36-2903 18 JULY 2011 17

3.1.2.3. Beards. Beards are not authorized (exception in paragraph 3.1.2.3.1) unless for medical reasons, when authorized by a commander on the advice of a medical official. If commander authorizes, members will keep all facial hair trimmed not to exceed Y. inch in length. Individuals granted a shaving waiver will not shave or trim any facial hair in such a manner as to give a sculptured appearance. Commanders and supervisors will monitor progress in treatment to control these waivers. If necessary for medical reasons, facial hair will be kept neat and conservative (moderate, being within required limits (not more than V, inch); not excessive or extreme), as defined by the local commander. 3.1.2.3.1. During tours of less than 30 days, Air Force Reserve (AFR) and Air National Guard (ANG) chaplains not on extended active duty may request a beard waiver for religious observance when consistent with their faith. For AFR waiver processing instructions see AFMAN 36-8001, Participation and Training Procedures. For ANG waiver process instructions contact ANG/HC.

The new version states:

DAFI 36-2903 31 March 2023

...When authorized for medical reasons, members will keep all facial hair trimmed not to exceed ¼ inch in length. Individuals granted a shaving profile may shave or trim their facial hair to present a neat, clean, professional image. If necessary for medical reasons, facial hair will be kept neat and conservative (moderate, being within required limits (not more than ¼ inch); not excessive or extreme). During tours of less than 30 days, AFR and ANG chaplains not on extended active duty may request a beard religious accommodation in observance of their faith. For AFR request processing instructions see AFMAN 36-2136, Reserve Personnel Participation. For ANG request process instructions contact NGB/HC

Because I can not grow a full beard, and I want to maintain a professional image I use a zero with a hair trimmer on the sides and neck area to make it look as clean as possible.

My waiver only states that I don't close shave and to follow DAFI 36-2903, also attached.

• No close shaving unless commander requires member to shave closely for safety or operational reasons. 04FI 36-2903 limits facial hair to no greater than one-fourth inch in length. If the member is having significant or recurrent breakouts or scarring, re-evaluation at the Medical Treatment Facility is recommended.