Some men grow their facial hair out as colder weather approaches — but not necessarily because they want to keep their faces warm. It may be in honor of Movember, the national movement devoted to raising awareness for men’s health issues. Whether you want to grow a mustache to champion this worthy cause or learn more about how you can call attention to serious issues like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health, here’s what you should know.

A Brief History of Movember

The movement launched in 2003 purely by chance, when a group of friends in Melbourne, Australia, decided to grow mustaches for a month. Their goal had nothing to do with health; they simply wanted to see if they could ignite some love for facial hair.

But this unique step caught the attention of so many people that they eventually decided to turn into something worthwhile by launching Movember, a commitment to raising funds and awareness for prostate cancer and other issues affecting men around the world. The venture grew rapidly, and by 2007, they partnered with prostate cancer charities and foundations throughout the United States, Canada, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

How You Can Participate

Anyone can take part by growing out their facial hair in November and generating conversations about men’s health. This is also an opportunity to renew your focus on your own health and schedule a prostate cancer screening. Guidelines for men vary by age and risk factors. High-risk individuals should begin screening at 40, while those at average risk can begin at 50.

Reevaluate your lifestyle by adjusting your diet to include more healthy fats and by increasing your physical activity, both of which may reduce your risk. You can also spread the word on your social media channels and encourage people to donate for every day that you grow out your facial hair.

How to Grow Your Mustache

You can easily grow your mustache simply by letting your facial hair grow to beard length first. That makes it easier for you to trim it down until you reach a mustache style that is most appropriate for your face. Take your time so that you don’t over-trim.

While you want to keep the mustache going throughout the month, you should maintain the hair so that it doesn’t grow too long, unless that is the specific look that you want. Use a beard brush and scissors to groom and trim.
 

Patients throughout High Point, NC, trust in the professionals at Medical Center Urology for their health care needs. Offering screenings and treatments for prostate cancer, incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and other urology concerns, they’ll work closely with you every step of the way on your path to better health. Visit the website for more information, or call (336) 882-0220 to schedule an appointment.