They serve, protect and project the clean-cut image HPD wants to promote.

But sergeants Kenneth Perkins and Shelby Stewart, both 25-year veterans, are forbidden to wear the uniform because of the hair on their faces.

“That actually makes me feel as though a family member just slapped me in the face,” said Sgt. Perkins.

It’s not a grooming choice, they say, but a necessity brought on by a painful skin condition which is common among black men.

And when both officers lost their uniforms, they say, they lost a chance to advance.

KHOU - TV

“You don’t enjoy all the rights and privileges of other Houston police officers,” said Sgt. Stewart.

HPD officials won’t comment on camera, but 11 News obtained a copy of the department’s appearance and grooming standards which were revised in March of 2005.

Under the policy, an officer with a beard or goatee is expressly prohibited from wearing a department authorized uniform.

Also, officers who cannot shave due to medical conditions may be assigned to plainclothes duties, but they must submit a written report from a physician every 30 days.

“It’s hard enough to recruit officers for the academy, so you can imagine that this will make it even harder,” said local activist Deloyd Parker.

The taxpayers may ultimately pay a high price, especially if these officers decide to sue the city.

That’s an option they are now looking into, with help from an attorney.

“Because I hope the citizens of Houston want an officer out there when we call the police, and I don’t care if he has a beard," attorney Jolanda Jones said. "I really don’t.  I just want to make sure I’m safe.

And public safety, they say, is more important than public image.