Matthew Conrad, owner of Victory Barber and Brand in Victoria, predicts scores of male clientele will be asking about the hair look that everyone will be noticing in November: the moustache. For the eighth official year running, Movember moves men to grow ‘staches and raise money for Prostate Cancer Canada and the Movember Foundation.

Conrad shows barbers a breakdown for the month with seven moustache styles and tips barbers and stylists can give clients who will be sporting the ‘stache.

Week 1: Clients Pick Their ‘Mo

On November 1, the rules are that men participating in Movember (henceforth called “Mo Bros”) must be clean shaven. No doubt this will be a time when they’ll be thinking about how they see that stache growing in under their nose. With all the different shapes and sizes that moustaches come in, which one would best suit your male clientele? “Not all men’s facial hair is the same. A good barber reads the face and matches it to an ideal style,” says Conrad.

Week 2: Encourage Patience

Growing “that luxurious lip sweater,” as Conrad calls it, “takes time to grow and most potential ‘mos are lost in the awkward second week.” Tell the guys to fight the urge to shave it off and grow on, grow on. Take it from Conrad: “Have faith, it will come around … and it will be magnificent.”

Week 3: Grooming

Regardless of the style or length of the desired moustache, taking care of it as clients would the hair on their head, is important. “Shampoo or mild soap will keep it clean,” says Conrad. “Comb it down and trim the lip line to keep it groomed.” Be ready to give male clients advice on proper home maintenance.

Week 4: Moisturize

Although it’s about the facial hair, don’t let clients forget about what’s underneath! “The skin underneath the new moustache can become dry and itchy due to the moisture wicking effect of our natural fibers,” explains Conrad. Barbers should be well equipped with moisturizers to retail during this month.

Week 5: Wax On

Just as stylists rejoice at the sight of long hair to style, guys will be happy to see some length to work with. “Use a proper moustache wax to soften and sculpt it into a solid statement of style,” say Conrad. Don’t forget to explain to male clientele what products you’re using on them in the salon, so they can take home the kit to care for the new handle at home.

Photo courtesy of Victory Barber and Brand