Police Scotland has shelved its plans to make officers shave off their beards.
The force said a clean-shaven copper was essential to wear protective masks.
However, the scheme has been put on hold after men complained.
The end of May deadline was missed after the Scottish Police Federation (SPF) and the LGBTI Police Association criticised the plans.
Four officers took legal action.
Police Scotland announced a climbdown on Tuesday, saying implementation would be postponed and the controversial policy would be reviewed again in 12 months.
Assistant Chief Constable Alan Speirs said:
“We have postponed implementation of the policy having sought further health and safety advice and after listening to the lived experience of our people.
“I am very grateful to all divisions, staff associations and unions who provided valuable feedback during the consultation phase.
“Postponing implementation allows further examination of the evidence base for a policy which is proportionate and justifies change, particularly where that change has a significant impact on officers and staff.
“This work will be reviewed in 12 months to ensure we reach an agreed position on a policy which has the health and safety of our people at its core.”
David Kennedy, the SPF’s general secretary, told BBC Scotland:
“It was highly criticised from all areas of the service and whether to delay indefinitely or until proper understanding as to why such a policy would ever be required, can only be described as the correct decision.”
