Army Phases Out Permanent Shaving Waivers for Medical Conditions

The U.S. Army has implemented a new policy that will gradually eliminate permanent medical shaving waivers for soldiers with skin conditions. The change primarily affects those with pseudofolliculitis barbae, commonly known as razor bumps, a condition that occurs more frequently among service members with curly hair. According to dermatology experts, approximately 60% of Black men experience this condition, which has raised questions about the policy's potential demographic impact.