The NYPD recently chose to reverse its stance on facial hair, reinstating a ban just four years after allowing officers to sport beards.

Beyond the surface-level debate over grooming policies lies a deeper consideration of the symbolic significance of facial hair, particularly within the context of law enforcement.

Studies exploring the psychology of appearance have delved into the many ways in which facial hair influences perceptions of individuals, particularly in contexts where authority and power are paramount, such as law enforcement. 

New York Police Commissioner Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919), with facial hair, waves his truncheon from a patrol cart in a cartoon, from May 8, 1895, drawn by G.Y. Coffin for The Washington Post. (MPI/Getty Images)

Facial hair, notably beards, has long been intertwined with cultural and societal perceptions of masculinity, strength and authority.

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One aspect of this phenomenon lies in the evolutionary perspective. Throughout history, the presence of facial hair in men has been linked to maturity, virility and dominance. Prominent facial features (like a strong jawline, etc) often signal dominance within social hierarchies. 

This evolutionary residue may subconsciously influence how humans perceive individuals with facial hair, associating them with traits of strength and authority.

A police officer with a waxed moustache stands on the field before the start of the Blue Jays game against the Boston Red Sox on Sept. 10, 2016, at Rogers Centre in Toronto, Canada. (Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)

Moreover, societal and cultural norms play a significant role in shaping perceptions of facial hair. In many cultures, the beard has been revered as a symbol of wisdom, power and masculinity. 

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From ancient civilizations where beards denoted status and authority to more contemporary times where iconic figures like Abraham Lincoln and Ernest Hemingway have been synonymous with their distinctive facial hair, the beard has retained its symbolic significance.

Within the context of law enforcement, where projecting authority and maintaining control are essential, facial hair can serve as a visual cue reinforcing these traits. Research published last year in the Archives of Sexual Behavior shows that individuals with beards are often perceived as more mature, dominant and competent compared to their clean-shaven counterparts. 

Iconic figures like Abraham Lincoln have been synonymous with their distinctive facial hair. (Ken Welsh/Design Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

These perceptions can translate into increased confidence in the abilities of bearded officers to handle challenging situations and make tough decisions, traits that are crucial in policing.

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Furthermore, facial hair can also evoke a sense of ruggedness and resilience, qualities that are valued in law enforcement. The image of a stoic officer with a well-groomed beard can convey a sense of toughness and determination, qualities that are often associated with the demands of police work.

The psychology of appearance highlights the many ways in which facial hair influences perceptions of strength, authority and masculinity, particularly within the realm of law enforcement. Understanding these dynamics can provide insights into the role of grooming standards in shaping public perceptions of police officers and the complex interplay between appearance, identity and professionalism.

A New York City police captain seated at his desk, circa 1890.

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Banning all beards is an unnecessarily strict approach. It's entirely possible to maintain a well-groomed appearance with facial hair. By implementing guidelines that require officers to keep their facial hair tidy and trimmed, the NYPD could achieve its desired level of uniformity without resorting to extreme measures. This approach respects individual differences while still upholding a professional standard of appearance.

Additionally, there's no substantial evidence to suggest that facial hair inherently compromises officers’ ability to perform their duties effectively. On the contrary, as highlighted, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that bearded officers are, in many ways, better officers. 

Graduating officers take part in the parade for new recruits at the Metropolitan Police Service Training College on Nov. 3, 2017, in London. (Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

As long as hygiene standards are met and facial hair is kept neat, there's no reason why officers with beards should be treated differently from their clean-shaven counterparts.

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In fact, one could argue that allowing officers to have well-maintained beards could enhance community relations. It's well-known that law enforcement agencies benefit from building trust and rapport with the communities they serve. 

Allowing officers to express themselves within reasonable grooming guidelines could make them more relatable and approachable to the public.

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