When November is near, what comes to mind? The changing of the leaves as fall transforms into winter? Thoughts of gathering with family and friends to give thanks over a delicious meal? Are you already thinking about Christmas shopping? November is home to many feelings and causes — none as notable to Solo Noir as Movember. We are all about men's beard — but for the month of Movember, we are about the 'stache. 

About Movember 

Movember is a leading charity in the awareness of men's health. Started in 2003 by two mates in Australia, it has grown into a global movement.

Movember focuses on three causes: 

Prostate Cancer 

The second leading cause of death among men in the U.S. 1 in 9 men will get diagnosed with prostate cancer. While cancer doesn't prejudge — black men's chances of diagnosis are considerably higher than white men per 100,000 men — whereas the mortality rate for low-grade prostate cancer doubles that of other races. These numbers are alarming for people of color, specifically African-Americans.

Testicular Cancer 

According to John Hopkins, "it is estimated that 8,000 to 10,000 men will develop testis cancer each year." Known as a young man's cancer as it affects men in their 20's and 30's. It can also strike children and teens. Testis cancer is more common in white men than people of color — luckily, the cure rate is higher than 95 percent. 

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention 

Mental illnesses affect millions of people in the U.S., which consists of many mental health conditions ranging from mild to severe. 19.1% of U.S. adults experienced mental illness in 2018 (47.6 million people). - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 

Suicide 

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention states that suicide was the 10th leading cause of death (2017) in the U.S. with twice as many people committing suicides as homicides. The AFSP also says that "men died by suicide 3.54x more often in women" that year. White men were the highest in the nation at 15% while black men were among the lowest at 6%. 

Movember Rules + Solo Noir Takeaways

Mo Bro Rule 1: Sign up at us.Movember.com. Every Mo Bro must be clean-shaven come November 1st. 

 Mo Bro Rule 2: For the entire month, each Mo Bro must grow and groom a mustache.

Mo Bro Rule 3: Beards, goatees, sideburns or fake mustaches are not allowed.

Mo Bro Rule 4: Use the power of the 'stache to advocate, conversate and raise funds for men's health.

Mo Bro Rule 5: "Each Mo Bro must conduct himself like a true gentleman." 

Movember is about taking early actions, collaboration, science, affordable treatment and support for men everywhere.  Make sure you're prepared with a beard moisturizer or oil infused with natural ingredients that help promote a 'stache that stays soft throughout the day.

Solo Noir supports the movement of Men's Health Awareness and asks Solo Noir Men to join us in this mission of consciousness.  We hope you fall in love with your new look but if you are ready for the old you have a fresh razor and shaving cream close by.