Airmen seeking ‘shaving waivers’

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Canales
  • 341st Medical Operations Squadron
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  In the 341st Medical Group we often manage members seeking shaving waivers. The most common reason is due to pseudofolliculitis barbae, or PFB, which is sometimes known as shaving bumps or ingrown hairs. This condition is a result of inflammation that occurs when closely cut hair becomes trapped under the skin. In addition to the red bumps associated with this condition, it can lead to a secondary infection and excessive scarring. PFB is most common in men with tightly curled hair or hair that curls when cut.

In the 341st MDG, we use the Air Force model of the three-phase program to manage PFB. In the first phase, the focus is on allowing the skin to heal and lasts 30 days. During this period, members are allowed to grow facial hair to a maximum length of one-fourth of an inch. We recommend using of clippers to comply with this standard. The patient should follow up with their provider before their profile (shaving waiver) expires. The second phase focuses on education in the proper shaving method and lasts 90 days. Once the patient has successfully completed the second phase they will move into the third phase, which is the maintenance phase. The provider may continue this phase of the profile up to 365 days depending on the member's progress.

There are a few things Airmen can do to help improve or reduce the recurrence of PFB.
Once diagnosed with PFB by a provider, Airmen will be instructed in how to lift hair that has become embedded under the skin. Once the skin has healed, the focus will shift to proper shaving methods. In order to prevent recurrence, Airmen will need to wash the beard and neck area for several minutes using very warm water and soap. It is also important to use shaving cream or gel to help soften the hair. This helps to reduce the formation of sharp ends on the hair that allow the hair to re-enter the skin.

Ultimately, the goal of the "shaving waiver" is to allow the skin to heal and prevent the recurrence of PFB. In accordance with Air Force Instruction 44-102, Medical Care Management and AFI 36-2903, Dress and Appearance, the length of facial hair cannot exceed one-quarter of an inch. Facial hair must be grown out naturally, and any shaping or styling of facial hair is not allowed. Additionally, facial hair cannot interfere with the wear of any personal protective gear, such as a gas mask or performance of duties. If this should occur, the member's ability to perform duties safely is compromised and they may require an evaluation to determine fitness for military duties. For more information about PFB or to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider, call 731-4MED (4633).