Every November, men around the world grow moustaches for Movember, a global movement raising awareness for men’s health, from mental wellbeing to prostate and testicular cancer. Growing a ‘Mo’ isn’t just a style choice; it’s a statement of solidarity and a reminder to look after yourself inside and out.
But while your moustache takes centre stage this month, don’t forget the rest of your face - especially your skin. With colder weather rolling in and the dry indoor heating on, your skin is going through a seasonal shift that can leave it tight, flaky, and irritated. And if you’re trying to grow a new moustache at the same time, that dryness can quickly turn into itchiness, ingrown hairs, or patchy growth.
So this Movember, let’s talk about balance. Growing your ‘Mo’ is great - but caring for the skin beneath it is even better because a healthy moustache starts with healthy skin.
The Movember mindset
If this is your first Movember, you might be surprised by how quickly those first few weeks test your patience. The early stages can feel awkward with patchy growth, uneven edges, and an itchy upper lip that seems determined to drive you mad. But every great moustache starts that way.
Instead of fighting it, prepare for it. Think of your moustache journey as both a grooming challenge and a self-care ritual. The same care and intention you put into your shave should also apply to your growth phase.
Before you start, give your face a clean slate. A gentle exfoliation and a close shave with a safety razor can help remove dead skin and lift trapped hairs, setting you up for smoother, more even growth. Follow with a rich, nourishing moisturiser or balm - something that locks in hydration without clogging pores.
As your moustache begins to take shape, the real work begins: keeping both the hair and the skin beneath it healthy.
Winter skin woes - and how to fight them
Cold weather and central heating are a harsh combination for your skin. The cold air outside strips away moisture, while indoor heat dries it out even more. That double hit of dehydration can lead to redness, irritation, and flaky patches. The secret weapon? Moisturising - consistently and correctly.
1. Moisturise morning and night
Your skin needs moisture just as your body needs water. Apply a light, non-greasy moisturiser in the morning after washing your face to protect against cold air and wind. Then, before bed, switch to something a little richer - ideally with ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, or natural oils (think argan, jojoba, or almond).
If you’re rocking facial hair, work the moisturiser gently through your moustache too. It helps soften the hair and keeps the skin beneath from drying out.
2. Don’t forget to cleanse
Winter sweat, trapped oils, and environmental grime can easily build up under facial hair. Use a mild cleanser or a beard wash every day or two to remove dirt without stripping away natural oils. Avoid harsh soaps that leave your skin tight - instead, try an artisan shaving soap or a gentle face wash to keep things balanced.
3. Exfoliate
A little exfoliation helps prevent ingrown hairs and flakiness, but overdoing it can damage your skin barrier, especially in winter. Once or twice a week is enough. Look for scrubs with fine particles or mild acids (like lactic or salicylic acid) that smooth without scratching.
Moisture meets moustache
Your moustache needs care just like the hair on your head. Without it, it can quickly feel rough or itchy.
Work a small amount of beard oil or balm into your ‘Mo’ each morning to keep it soft, smooth, and well-shaped. A good aftercare balm does both - soothing your skin while conditioning your facial hair.
Massage in a few drops from root to tip, then comb it through for a healthy, well-groomed finish.
The role of diet, hydration, and rest
You can’t talk about skin and hair health without mentioning the inside story. What you eat and how well you rest play a massive role in how your skin looks and feels.
- Stay hydrated: It might sound obvious, but dehydration is one of the biggest causes of dull, tired skin. Aim for 6–8 glasses of water a day. Herbal teas count too - especially ones like green tea or chamomile that are rich in antioxidants.
- Eat smart: Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed) help strengthen your skin barrier and keep it hydrated from the inside. Vitamins A, C, and E all help cells repair, so pile your plate with colourful fruits and vegetables.
- Get your sleep: Just as we mentioned before, sleep is your body’s built-in recovery tool. Those hours of rest regulate hormones, repair skin tissue, and even boost hair growth. Your moustache will thank you for it.
Managing the ‘Mo’ itch and irritation
That infamous moustache itch can feel like a rite of passage, but it doesn’t have to derail your Movember progress. It’s usually caused by new hair growth combined with dry skin, meaning hydration is once again your best defence.
Here’s a simple three-step routine to keep things calm:
- Wash your face and moustache with warm (not hot) water and a mild cleanser.
- Pat dry, never rub. Rubbing irritates both hair and skin.
- Apply a soothing moisturiser or balm with natural oils or aloe vera to calm redness.
Avoid scratching, even when it itches. Instead, gently massage your moustache with a small amount of oil to soften hairs and ease discomfort.
Beyond the mirror
This Movember, it’s easy to focus on the moustache, but don't forget to make your skin a priority too. At Blades & Whiskers, we're all about keeping grooming simple and genuine. It’s not about fancy routines or a shelf full of products; it’s about using good tools, natural ingredients, and products that make you feel good.
Our range of high-quality safety razors, luxurious handmade soaps, and soothing balms turns your everyday shave into something that feels good. So, this Movember, take a moment for yourself and give your skin a little love, too.