We support those who serve and think strict tattoo regulations shouldn’t prevent anyone from protecting our country. However, while we may disagree, we don’t make the rules. We help many clients remove non regulation tattoos and wish they’d known the guidelines before getting inked. That’s why we’re writing this blog.
Unfortunately, non-compliant tattoos can bar you from joining or serving and can hinder advancement the armed forces. With tattoos more popular than ever, it’s essential to know the specific rules that could impact your eligibility for enlistment, serving , continuing or advancing. Wondering if your ink might be an issue? Read on!
P.S. Conventional tattoo removal can take up to three years, but Zapatat offers removal in just 2-4 visits over 24-48 weeks.
Army Tattoo Regulations
Army Regulation 670-1 covers both new recruits and active-duty soldiers. Here’s a summary of the key points:
- Location Restrictions:
- Tattoos are allowed on most parts of the body, but there are some restrictions on placement.
- Tattoos on the head, face, neck (above the t-shirt line), wrists, and hands are not allowed.
- The only exception for tattoos on the hands is a single ring tattoo on each hand, but it must be located on the base of the finger.
- Content Restrictions:
- Tattoos that promote extremist, racist, sexist, or indecent ideas are strictly prohibited.
- The Army will not accept individuals with tattoos that violate these content rules.
- Size and Number:
- The Army does not have a limit on the number of tattoos you can have, but they must comply with the location and content restrictions mentioned above.
- Sleeves, or tattoos that cover a large part of the arm, are permitted as long as they do not cross into prohibited areas like the hands or neck.
Why Does the Army Have These Regulations?
The Army has these regulations to maintain a professional appearance and ensure that soldiers represent the Army’s values. Tattoos that are visible in uniform can create distractions or send the wrong message, especially if they contain inappropriate content. The Army also needs to ensure that tattoos do not affect soldiers’ ability to perform their duties, which is why tattoos on the face, neck, and hands are limited.
What If You Have a Tattoo That Violates These Rules?
If you already have a tattoo that doesn’t comply with Army regulations, you might still have options. Depending on the tattoo’s location, size, and content, you may be asked to remove it. The Army provides some flexibility in this area, and they may give you the chance to correct the issue before enlisting.
Tattoo Removal Options
If you have a tattoo that violates military regulations or if you’re looking to remove a tattoo for personal reasons, there are professional services that can help. Tattoo removal has come a long way in recent years, and there are several effective options available.
Accelerated Removal Technique (ART®️):
Our Accelerated Removal Technique (ART®️) is the fastest and most effective option for removing tattoos. ART®️ uses advanced laser technology to achieve significant results in just a few sessions. Unlike conventional methods that can take years, ART®️ removes most tattoos in 2-4 sessions over 24-48 weeks.
A single ART®️ session can reduce a tattoo by 50-80% within 12-14 weeks, making it one of the quickest removal methods available. We guarantee removal in weeks, not years, offering an efficient solution for those who need fast results.
Laser Tattoo Removal:
This is the most common and effective method for removing tattoos. It uses targeted lasers to break down the ink particles in the skin, allowing the body to naturally eliminate them over time.
Depending on the size and color of the tattoo, multiple sessions may be required. Darker colors tend to be easier to remove than lighter ones.
Tattoo Removal Creams:
There are over-the-counter creams marketed for tattoo removal, but they don’t work. The tattoo ink is too deep to be removed by any topical method.’
Surgical Removal:
In some cases, surgical removal might be an option for small tattoos. This involves cutting out the tattooed skin and stitching the area closed.
While effective, surgical removal is more invasive and typically leaves a scar, making it less desirable than laser removal.
How Long Does Tattoo Removal Take?
Tattoo removal is not an instant process. It typically requires multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart. The total time depends on factors like the size, color, and depth of the tattoo, as well as your skin type. With conventional methods it can take up to 2-3 years, however, with Zapatat Accelerated Removal Technique (ART®️), tattoos can be removed as fast as 2-4 visits between 24-48 weeks.
Final Thoughts
The answer to whether you can have a tattoo in the military depends on several factors, including the tattoo’s location, content, and size. While tattoos are generally accepted, there are clear restrictions that must be followed, particularly in the Army. If you have a tattoo that doesn’t meet Army regulations, fast tattoo removal by Zapatat might be the best option to help you meet enlistment requirements.
For more information on Zapatat tattoo removal or to schedule a free consultation.