How to Prepare for Movember 2024

Movember is more than just a month of growing mustaches. It’s a movement dedicated to raising awareness and funds to help men in their fight against common diseases. Whether you’re a consistent Mo Bro or a first-timer, getting ready for this year’s campaign will give you a great headstart. Explore how you can make a difference this month

What Is Movember?

The Movember campaign is an awareness campaign to help tackle the three biggest health issues affecting men — mental health, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. The campaign started with 30 men and has more than six million people rallying behind it. Throughout November, men are encouraged to spread awareness and start conversations regarding the stated issues.

Why men’s health? In the U.S., men are 50% more likely to die of heart disease than women. According to Rober Shmerling, a rheumatologist, men, in general, are more likely to skip routine health checkups and mental health care offerings, which may be caused by the stigma attached to them. 

Growing Your Mustache

During November, men grow their facial hair in support of the Movement Foundation. If you want to participate in this movement, you know what to do — raise awareness by sharing the news with your family and friends. Here’s how to do it:

• Sign up: Register using the Movember app or on movember.com
• Choose “Grow:” Once signed up, you’ll see where your supporters can keep track of your progress and support for men’s health. Set your fundraising target, explain your motivation and post a selfie.
• Start with a clean-shaven face: Shave at the start of the month and let your beard grow. Don’t fake it and use faux mustaches, beards or goatees.
• Spread the word: Ask your loved ones to back your Mo by donating. 

Grooming and Styling Guide for Movember 2024

Growing a mustache requires preparation. Here’s how to grow a mustache the right way this Movember:

1. Prep Your Skin

Use a moisturizer daily to keep your skin hydrated. Other ways to naturally improve your facial hair’s thickness include eating a healthy diet and exercising. 

2. Invest in Grooming Tools

While there’s no way to force speedy mustache growth, there are tools that can help improve its appearance. Here are some things you’ll need:

• Beard oil: It helps keep your mustache and beard soft and moisturized.
• Mustache wax: Some mustaches are pretty challenging to tame. This works exactly like a hair wax, keeping the hair in place.
• Trimmer: A little bit of trimming and styling is OK this Movember.

3. Find Your Mustache Style

One of the best things about growing your mustache is the experimenting that comes with it. Feel free to experiment with various mustache looks — keep it simple and neat with a classic look or rock the walrus — the choice is yours. Here are some styles to explore per Movember’s guidelines:

• The Wisp
• The Rockstar
• The Undercover Brother
• The Abakadabra
• The Trucker
• The Regent
• The Businessman
• The Box Car
• The Connoisseur
• The After Eight

4. Let It Grow

Wait and watch your beard grow. Give it at least three weeks before you can trim excess hairs that pop on your cheeks.

Move to Support Mental Health Awareness

Another way to support men’s health this Movember is to join the “Move for Movember” project. You only have to commit to walking or running 60 miles over the month at your own pace. Here’s how to do it:

• Sign up: Register using the Movember app or on movember.com, then choose Move.
• Set up your profile: Once you’re in, fill out the details, set a fundraising target and upload a selfie.
• Get moving: Move at your own pace. You can walk with your dog in the morning, run on the treadmill or run solo for 30 minutes. You can burn as much as 300 calories per hour when walking three miles.
• Share it with others: Don’t keep your goal a secret — share your progress on social media and watch the donations pour in.

Host an Event

If you have friends, family or colleagues who struggle with mental health issues, you probably know how men can often downplay their symptoms. There are one in five American adults who experience a mental health concern yearly.

Talking about the repercussions of mental health issues should start today. If you’re passionate about sharing your knowledge, consider hosting an event that raises awareness and funds for men’s health.

Similar to the previous steps, you must log in to the app or website, set up your profile, plan your event and ask people to purchase tickets for your event.

Other Ways to Get Involved This Movember 2024

This November, take appropriate steps to be healthier and happier. There are many ways to take care of your physical and mental health.

1. Spend Time With Loved Ones

Friends and family can help you feel understood and less lonely if you’re dealing with a difficult situation or overthinking something. A friend’s advice can offer guidance and comfort.

2. Talk More

It’s time to let go of the “I’ll deal with it myself” mindset. While independence has its charm, there’s also beauty in acknowledging that you need emotional support. 

3. Reach out to a Friend

If you sense a loved one is acting out of character, check in with them. You’ll never know what’s happening in their lives. Some signs that someone is in distress include: 

• Not sleeping
• Loneliness
• Going quiet on social media or in real life
• Forgetting hygienic practices
• Talking about death
• Avoiding social situations

4. Know Your Health Status

Have you had your annual checkup? If not, schedule an appointment with your physician today. Just because you’re feeling well doesn’t mean you’re in tip-top shape. Know your numbers and risk. For instance, if you have a family member with prostate cancer, you should discuss this with your doctor. Genes are one of the several factors that can increase your risk of developing this disease. 

Moreover, it’s essential to check your blood pressure, blood sugar level, waist-to-hip ratio and other health metrics. You may discuss creating a diet and exercise plan that suits your lifestyle and health needs with your physician or dietitian. Avoid falling for diet fads influencers promote to boost their money and fame.

Make a Difference This Year

Remember that every little effort counts. Whether it’s growing a mustache, donating a few dollars or running for a cause, every action can contribute to a brighter future where men live happier and healthier lives.