Movember: Grow a 'Stache, Save a Life (and Maybe Your Balls)

Movember: Grow a 'Stache, Save a Life (and Maybe Your Balls)

Written by: Joshua Gonzalez

Key Takeaways

Movember is a global movement supporting prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health.

The Movember Foundation encourages people to grow mustaches, move for mental health, and fundraise creatively.

You don’t need facial hair to participate. You can move, talk, share, and support in lots of ways.

Early detection saves lives. Know your body. Get checked.

Popstar products like Delay Spray and Volume + Taste are all about supporting sexual wellness—this Movember and every month.

Every November, the world gets a little hairier. And not in a werewolf-on-a-full-moon kind of way. We're talking about Movember, the month when mustaches take over upper lips for a cause that hits below the belt: men’s health. If you’ve ever wondered why your coworker suddenly looks like Magnum P.I. or your barista has sprouted a questionable fuzz-stache, now you know.

This is your one-stop shop for the Movember meaning, what it stands for, how to get involved, and why it’s more than just facial hair—it’s about saving lives.

So What Is Movember, Really?

Let’s break it down. Movember is a global movement focused on raising awareness and funds for men’s health awareness month, with a strong focus on prostate cancer prevention, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. It's the work of the Movember Foundation, which has been rallying Mo Bros and Mo Sisters since 2003 to take men’s health more seriously—without taking themselves too seriously.

Think of it as the Tom Selleck of charitable campaigns: charming, mustachioed, and not afraid to get personal.

A Brief (and Hairy) History

It all started in Australia when a couple of blokes dared each other to grow a mustache to bring the mustache back in fashion and raise awareness for prostate cancer. That lighthearted bet turned into a global phenomenon.

Today, Movember events happen all over the world, and millions of participants have raised over $1 billion for causes tied to Movember men’s health, mental health, and cancer prevention. From 30-day grow-offs to "Shave the Date" kickoffs, the Movember rules are simple: grow a mo, raise some dough, and talk about what really matters.

The Rules: How to Become a Mo Bro

You can't just slap on a mustache sticker and call it a day. To play by the Movember rules, you’ve got to:

  1. Start November 1 clean-shaven.

  2. Grow and groom a real mustache (no beards or goatees allowed).

  3. Use your growing 'stache to spark conversations and raise funds.

That’s it. No secret handshakes. No beard cult initiation. You’re officially a Mo Bro. Or, if you're supporting from the sidelines, a Mo Sister.

Not into growing facial hair? You can still join the movement. The Movember app lets you track progress, share your Mo-ments, and fundraise like a boss. You can also Move for Movember (run or walk 60km for the 60 men lost to suicide every hour, globally), or host a Mo-ment, aka a chill event that gets people talking about men’s health.

How to Participate (Without Looking Like a Creeper)

We get it. Not everyone was born to rock a mustache. But it’s less about fashion and more about the mission. Here's how to show up for Movember men’s health:

  • Grow a mustache for Movember: Bold, ironic, or barely there. Every strand counts.

  • Get moving: Dedicate 60km to honor the 60 men we lose each hour to suicide.

  • Host a gathering: Poker night, chili cook-off, or a full-on Mo Party.

  • Spread the word: Share stats, stories, or a selfie with your 'stache.

  • Donate: Can’t grow it? Throw money at it. Movember donations fund life-saving projects.

Why This Matters: Prostate Cancer Awareness, Testicular Cancer, and Beyond

Let’s talk about the awkward stuff. Prostate exams. Testicle lumps. Mental breakdowns. Movember brings these into the spotlight so men (and the people who love them) can start having real convos about real health.

Prostate Cancer Awareness

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men globally. Early detection is the name of the game. Regular screenings can save your ass. Literally.

Testicular Cancer

This one skews younger. It’s the most common cancer in guys aged 15 to 39. A monthly self-exam (or what we like to call "The Testi Test") could mean catching something early.

Mental Health

This might be the hardest topic to talk about, but it’s also the most urgent. Men are statistically more likely to die by suicide, often because they suffer in silence. The Movember Foundation is actively investing in programs that support men’s mental health, emotional resilience, and peer connection.

So no, it’s not "just a mustache." It’s a mouthpiece for topics we’ve been keeping quiet about for way too long.

Fundraising Ideas

Sick of bake sales? We got you. Fundraising should be fun (and a little inappropriate if you ask us). Here are some Movember fundraising ideas that might actually get people excited to donate:

  • Shave-down livestream: Get buzzed for a cause.

  • Moustache-themed trivia night: Loser has to wax their upper lip.

  • Sexy calendar shoot: Mo Bros, Mo Bods, Mo Problems.

  • Workout challenges: Squat for the 'stache. Burpee for the boys.

  • Kiss the Mo: Donate to vote on who has to kiss the Mo Bro with the weirdest facial hair.

All of this helps drive Movember donations to the projects that are saving lives and changing how we talk about health.

The Movember App: Track, Share, Repeat

Yes, there’s an app for that. The Movember app lets you:

  • Set goals and track funds

  • Snap and share your stache

  • Create or join a team

  • Access exclusive Mo merch and content

Whether you’re solo Mo-ing or rolling deep with a crew, the app keeps your mission organized and your upper lip inspired.

Not a Fan of Facial Hair? You Can Still Play

Let’s be real. Not everyone can pull off a handlebar. But Movember is more than mustaches. It’s about showing up for men’s health in whatever way works for you:

  • Share resources for prostate cancer prevention

  • Start a convo around supporting men’s mental health

  • Encourage a testicle self-exam 

Conclusion

Movember isn’t a trend. It’s a global movement with a hairy sense of humor and a deadly serious mission. Whether you’re growing a mustache, moving your body, or moving the conversation forward, you’re part of something bigger than yourself.

Want to really show up for your own health? Start the conversation with your doctor. Book that screening. Talk to a friend. Check your balls. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out our Popstar favorites:

Stay sexy. Stay healthy. Stay mustachioed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Movember?

Movember is a global men’s health movement that takes place every November, encouraging people to grow mustaches to raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health.

Is Movember the same as No Shave November?

Not quite. No Shave November focuses on growing any facial hair to spark conversations about cancer awareness. Movember specifically focuses on mustaches and supports the Movember Foundation.

What’s the Movember meaning?

It’s a portmanteau of "moustache" and "November." The movement aims to change the face of men’s health—literally and figuratively.

How do I become a Mo Bro?

Start clean-shaven on November 1, grow your mustache all month, raise funds, and talk about men’s health. That’s how to become a Mo Bro.

Are there official Movember rules?

Yes: start clean-shaven, grow only a mustache (no beards or goatees), and use your new facial friend to spark conversations.

Where do Movember donations go?

Movember donations fund research and programs focused on prostate cancer prevention, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health.

Can I use the Movember app?

Absolutely. The Movember app helps you track your progress, raise money, and get involved in events and challenges.

Are there Movember fundraising ideas for teams?

Yes! Host a mustache-themed trivia night, create a team workout challenge, or run a "Shave the Date" event.

What are some Movember events I can join?

From local runs and parties to digital challenges, Movember events are happening everywhere. Check the app or Movember’s site to find one near you.

Can I support the cause without growing a mustache?

Of course. Donate, move for Movember, host an event, or spread awareness. Every bit helps.

Dr. Brian Steixner

Dr. Brian Steixner

Dr. Brian Steixner is a board-certified urologist and an expert in men’s sexual medicine. He completed his General Surgery and Urology training at The University of Pennsylvania and The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, one of the busiest and most comprehensive programs in the nation. During his career, Brian has treated thousands of men with sexual health issues including male factor infertility.

Dr. Joshua Gonzalez

Dr. Joshua Gonzalez

Dr. Joshua Gonzalez is a board-certified urologist who is fellowship-trained in Sexual Medicine and specializes in the management of male and female sexual dysfunctions. He completed his medical education at Columbia University and his urological residency at the Mount Sinai Medical Center. Throughout his career, Dr. Gonzalez has focused on advocating for sexual health and providing improved healthcare to the LGBTQ+ community.