Over 12,000 conscripts begin service as new hair regulations take effect
Over 12,000 new conscripts began their military service on Monday, marking the first day under updated hair regulations that now allow men to keep long hair. The reform, part of the Finnish Defence Forces’ revised General Service Regulations (YLPALVO), applies the same hair rules to all conscripts, permitting long hair as long as it is tied up and does not obstruct service.
MTV Uutiset reports that the majority of male conscripts at Helsinki’s Santahamina still opted for short haircuts, though a few embraced the new flexibility. Among them was Williams Odia, whose braided hair reaches below his chin. "We’ll see if I keep it for the rest of my time here. I might cut it off," he said.
The updated regulations specify that long hair must not be worn loose and should be secured in a bun, braid, or similar style. It must not cover the ears, neck, or hang in front of the eyes. Iltalehti notes that during a media tour at Santahamina’s Guard Jaeger Regiment—where around 800 conscripts started service—only a handful of men were seen with their hair tied back.
Nuutti, one of the new conscripts, told Iltalehti he arrived with his long hair intact, as the new rules made it possible. "It wouldn’t be the biggest deal in the world if I had to cut it. But this is a big bonus for me," he said. Fellow conscript Iina welcomed the change as a step toward equality but predicted that traditional short haircuts would remain common. "I don’t even know the best tricks for long hair in the military yet. Gel keeps it in place, and it’s worth keeping hair ties handy," she said.
Most conscripts appeared to favor the classic buzz cut, though some sported slightly longer styles. Kasper, another new recruit, said he had no issue with others keeping long hair. "Everyone with their own style," he remarked. Sergeant Hari, who oversees the incoming conscripts, echoed this sentiment, stating that hair length is irrelevant as long as it does not interfere with duties. "I shaved mine into a buzz cut during my own conscript time. I thought it was easier and part of the tradition," he said.