Growing a moustache for Movember comes down to three things: leave it alone for the first two weeks, trim only the lip line, and choose a style that suits the hair you've actually got by week three. A small amount of moustache wax then keeps it in shape. Here's how to get from clean-shaven to a moustache worth showing off in 30 days.
What is Movember?
Movember is the yearly movement where men grow a moustache through November to get people talking about men's health. Most people start clean-shaven on 1 November and grow through to the end of the month.
Week 1: should I trim my moustache early?
No. Shave clean on day one, then leave the upper lip alone. Early growth is uneven for almost everyone, and trimming now only resets the clock. Keep the rest of your face shaved as usual so the moustache reads as deliberate.
Week 2: how do I deal with the itch?
The itchy stage is normal as short hairs grow out. Wash the area daily and keep the skin underneath moisturised. A drop of beard oil worked into the hair and skin helps. Resist the urge to scratch or trim it short. That's when most people give up.
Week 3: which moustache style should I choose?
Pick a style that matches your density, not the one on the poster.
| Style | Looks like | Best if your growth is… |
|---|---|---|
| Chevron | Full, covers the top lip | Thick and even |
| Pencil | Thin line just above the lip | Light or patchy |
| Horseshoe | Runs down to the jawline | Strong at the corners |
| Handlebar | Long, curled ends | Long enough to twist (late month) |
| Natural / walrus | Full, untrimmed | Very thick |
How do I trim a moustache without ruining it?
Comb the hair down over the lip, then trim only what crosses the lip line. Use small scissors and cut a little at a time; you can always take more off. Leave the length at the corners alone if you want a handlebar later. Browse beard care for the kit.
Week 4: how do I shape a moustache with wax?
Warm a small amount of wax between your fingers, work it in from the centre outwards and set the shape. Twist the ends for a handlebar. For a step-by-step on application, see our moustache wax guide.
Men Rock Moustache Wax comes in Sicilian Lime and Oak Moss, 25ml.
What should I do with my moustache after Movember?
Keep it, trim it back to a neater chevron, or shave it off. If you shave, use a proper shave cream and a sharp blade: a month of growth is coarser than everyday stubble. Our guide to preventing razor burn covers the rest.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to grow a moustache?
It varies by person. Most men see a visible moustache within a couple of weeks; a shapeable one takes longer.
Should I trim my moustache while growing it?
Only the lip line. Leave the length and the corners alone until at least week three.
Why does a new moustache itch?
Short hairs growing out can irritate the skin. Daily washing and a little beard oil help.
Do I need moustache wax?
Not for a short chevron. For handlebars or any shape you want to hold, yes.
What if my moustache is patchy?
Choose a lighter style such as a pencil or a short chevron.
Related guides
Grow it. Shape it. Own it. Shop moustache wax
