8 best practical hairstyles for police officers – Professional & functional looks

Being a police officer isn’t just about wearing the badge; it’s about being ready for anything. Whether you’re chasing down a suspect, handling intense situations, or simply enduring long shifts, the last thing you want is your hair getting in the way.

A good police officer hairstyle is about functionality, comfort, and staying within regulations while still feeling like yourself. The right hairstyle should stay put under a hat, require minimal touch-ups, and be easy to maintain even after a long, action-packed day.

Sounds like a challenge? Don’t worry, this guide will walk you through the best police officer hairstyles!

1. Buzz cut

Low-maintenance & tactical (For men) 

The buzz cut is the ultimate no-fuss hairstyle for male police officers. It’s clean, sharp, and requires almost zero upkeep, so it’s an ideal choice for those who prioritize efficiency over styling. Since it’s extremely short, it stays neat under helmets and requires minimal washing and drying time. This cut is also great for hot climates where longer hair might become uncomfortable.

How to get a buzz cut:

Step 1. Use clippers with a #1 to #3 guard for the desired length.

Step 2. Start at the front of your head and move evenly toward the back.

Step 3. Use a shorter guard (or no guard) for a fade effect on the sides.

Step 4. Check for evenness and make adjustments if necessary.

Step 5. Wash off loose hair and apply a light moisturizer to the scalp.

2. High & tight

Sharp & professional (For men) 

The high & tight is a military-inspired haircut that offers an adept look while keeping things low-maintenance. This style features a very short fade on the sides and slightly longer hair on top. So do you need a sharp appearance without excessive styling?

How to get a high & tight cut:

Step 1. Ask for a #0 or #1 fade on the sides, extending high up the head.

Step 2. Leave about half an inch of hair on top for structure.

Step 3. Use a small amount of matte styling wax to keep the top section neat.

Step 4. Regular trims every 2-3 weeks keep it looking fresh.

3. French braid

Secure & professional (For women) 

For female officers with long hair, the French braid is a secure and polished option. It keeps hair tightly woven, preventing strands from falling out while seeing to it a neat and professional appearance. This style works well under hats and helmets.

How to do a French braid:

Step 1. Brush your hair to remove knots and create a center or side part.

Step 2. Start at the top of your head, dividing hair into three sections.

Step 3. Begin braiding, adding small sections of hair as you move downward.

Step 4. Secure with a strong elastic band at the nape of your neck.

Step 5. Lightly spray with hairspray for extra hold.

4. Sleek low bun

Elegant & regulation-friendly (For women)

The low bun is a simple yet polished hairstyle for female officers with medium to long hair. It keeps hair neatly tucked away while maintaining a crackjacker look. This style is ideal for formal events, daily patrol duty, or leadership roles.

How to create a sleek low bun:

Step 1. Brush hair into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck.

Step 2. Twist the ponytail into a tight coil and wrap it into a bun.

Step 3. Secure with bobby pins and a hair tie.

Step 4. Use hairspray or styling gel to smooth flyaways.

5. Crew cut

Classic & easy (For men)

The crew cut is a classic, short-on-the-sides, slightly longer-on-top haircut that’s suitable for officers who want a low-maintenance but stylish look. It provides structure while ensuring hair remains tidy and practical for long shifts.

How to get a crew cut:

Step 1. Use clippers with a #2 to #4 guard on the top.

Step 2. Fade the sides shorter (using a #1 or #2 guard).

Step 3. Taper the hairline for a clean, blended look.

Step 4. Apply a light styling product for a matte finish.

6. Ponytail braid

Sporty & functional (For women) 

For officers who prefer a secure yet stylish way to keep their hair out of their face, the ponytail braid is a great option. It combines the practicality of a ponytail with the strength of a braid, preventing hair from coming loose during physically demanding shifts.

How to do a ponytail braid:

Step 1. Tie hair into a high or mid-level ponytail.

Step 2. Divide the ponytail into three sections and braid down.

Step 3. Secure with an elastic band at the bottom.

Step 4. Add hairspray or gel for extra hold.

7. Taper fade

Modern & sharp (For men)

The taper fade is a modern, stylish cut that works well for officers who want clean lines with a bit of style. It keeps the sides short while leaving some length on top. And it’s easy to style and maintain.

How to get a taper fade:

Step 1. Ask for a #1 or #2 fade on the sides.

Step 2. Keep the top slightly longer for styling.

Step 3. Blend the fade gradually for a smooth transition.

Step 4. Use a small amount of pomade or wax for a neat finish.

8. Clipped pixie cut

Feminine & low-maintenance (For women)

For female officers who prefer short hair, the clipped pixie cut is a practical, stylish, and low-maintenance option. It keeps hair off the face while still allowing a bit of personal flair.

How to style a pixie cut:

Step 1. Keep the sides and back short for easy upkeep.

Step 2. Leave the top slightly longer for styling versatility.

Step 3. Use a light wax or mousse for texture.

Step 4. Trim every 4-6 weeks to maintain the shape.