Military authorities in a number of Western countries are increasingly turning to unconventional measures to attract new recruits. Finland’s Defense Ministry, whose country joined NATO in April 2023, has decided to ease appearance requirements for service members.

Starting July 1, all personnel in the Finnish Defense Forces, regardless of gender, will be allowed to wear long hair. Until now, that option had been available only to female service members.

The Finnish Defense Ministry said hair length itself does not affect combat capability. During service, however, hair must not be worn loose or cover the eyes, ears or neck. Service members who prefer longer hairstyles will therefore have to tie their hair back in a ponytail or bun. The changes have already been added to the Finnish army’s regulations.

Some restrictions will remain in place. Mohawk-style haircuts are still banned, as is dyeing hair in bright, non-standard colors.

Similar rules are already in force in several NATO armies. Male service members are allowed to wear long hair in the armed forces of Sweden and Norway.

When preparing the new regulations, Finland’s Defense Ministry also discussed allowing all troops to wear beards and mustaches. The idea was ultimately rejected. As before, facial hair is permitted only when there are specific justified grounds.