Yes, certain types of eyeliner are authorized for wear in the military, specifically permanent cosmetic eyeliner, provided it adheres to strict appearance standards designed to maintain a professional and natural look.
Military Grooming Standards for Eyeliner
Military grooming standards emphasize a neat, conservative, and professional image for all service members. When it comes to cosmetic enhancements like eyeliner, regulations permit specific forms of permanent makeup under clear conditions.
Key aspects regarding eyeliner in the military include:
- Authorized Type: The regulations explicitly authorize permanent cosmetic makeup for areas including the eyeliner. This refers to eyeliner applied through a permanent tattooing process, rather than daily, temporary application.
- Natural Appearance Mandate: Any permanent eyeliner must seamlessly blend with the individual's natural features. The primary goal is to enhance the wearer's inherent appearance, not to create a dramatic or artificial look.
- Prohibition on Exaggerated Styles: Exaggerated cosmetic styles are strictly prohibited. This means that while a subtle, natural-looking permanent line is allowed, any overly thick, winged, colored, or otherwise prominent styles that deviate from a natural enhancement are not permitted.
- Compliance is Key: Service members are required to ensure their permanent eyeliner aligns with these directives. Obtaining or wearing styles that do not meet the natural appearance and non-exaggerated criteria is unauthorized.
Permitted vs. Prohibited Permanent Eyeliner Examples
To illustrate the distinction in acceptable permanent eyeliner styles:
| Permitted (Permanent) | Prohibited (Permanent) |
|---|---|
| Natural-looking thin line | Thick, bold lines |
| Blends with lash line | Winged or extended styles |
| Subtly enhances eye shape | Exaggerated or dramatic looks |
| Color matching natural tones | Unnatural or vibrant colors |
These guidelines ensure that personal cosmetic choices support the overall uniformed appearance required within military service. Adherence to these specific regulations is mandatory for all personnel.
