Razor burn getting you down? Take a break from shaving this month for No-Shave November — and raise cancer awareness while you’re at it. Men and women alike unite in the height of laziness, by agreeing to not shave for the entire month, in service of a good cause and possibly for some extra warmth.
According to the American Cancer Society, the goal of No-Shave November is to grow awareness by growing hair, which many cancer patients lose. Hopefully, people will see that the money one usually spends on haircuts, blowouts, waxing appointments and beard trimmings would be better spent educating society about cancer prevention.
Ray Futia, a senior majoring in biology, likened his beard to the pink ribbons worn in support of cancer research. He thinks that No-Shave November is an easy way to visibly show support for a cause.
“There are ways to show your support without having to intrude,” Futia said. “People just take it in. I generally prefer to go unshaven because it’s easier to use what you have.”
While women might be more hesitant, the event is open to anyone who can let it grow and let it stay there. Chloe Engel, a senior majoring in accounting, recalls a time in high school when she and her soccer team decided not to shave their legs for the month of November to prove that they could also get involved.
“We thought, ‘Why are boys the only ones allowed to be lazy and grow out their beards and mustaches?’” Engel said. “No-Shave November is a movement to increase cancer awareness. Both girls and boys should be allowed to support the cause in a fun way.”
Catch phrases, like “Noshember” and “Movember” (the latter of which refers to not shaving your mustache,) have helped the event gain publicity. However, many mothers and grandmothers still oppose the furry faces, making Thanksgiving known as “the home stretch.” That’s the situation for John Behnken, a senior double-majoring in political science and Spanish.
“I went just about the whole month,” Behnken said. “I shaved right before Thanksgiving at the behest of my mom.” But this does not stop Behnken from continuing to not shave, as this will be his third year participating in the event.
For people who don’t rock facial hair year-round, No-Shave November is a time to experiment with different styles.
“Honestly, I did it for fun and to raise awareness for cancer,” Benkhen said. Not to mention the attention. Last year, a girl took one look at him and said, “[America] would be proud of your beard.” Now who wouldn’t want to hear that?
Here are some helpful No-Shave November guidelines to keep you focused on your goal.
Nov. 7: Week One – The itch and possible discomfort might be starting right about now, but this is no time to quit. Use some anti-itch cream and stay focused on your goal.
Nov. 14: Week Two – That full-fledged beard has set in for most young men, excluding the follicle-challenged. Enjoy it while you still can.
Nov. 21: Week Three – Possibly on the verge of looking like a small animal has taken up shelter on your face. Be confident, it’s your best shot at not getting funny looks.
Nov. 27: Thanksgiving – Make sure to give the older women in your life holiday cards to combat their attempts to shave your face while you’re sleeping.
Nov. 30: Week Four – Be proud and replenish your bathroom with shaving cream and razors because tomorrow is baby-got-back his clean face. Well done.