Things are getting a little hairy on campus as men continue to avoid using their razors and grow beards for No Shave November.
The event has one simple rule to determine the manliest of men: do not shave.
Since shaving is forbidden, other forms of upkeep, such as trimming or waxing, are also not allowed.
While No Shave November may help people save money from no longer buying shaving cream, not everyone can handle the commitment.
"I gave it a try for a few days, but I had to give up last week," said Spencer Brown, sophomore in political science. "I guess I just wasn't cut out for it. It is a much harder process than you might think."
While Brown had to forfeit the competition, he said he was happy to participate.
"I'm glad I got to give it a try, though, because some of my friends didn't even try No Shave November," Brown said. "They either can't really grow facial hair or are too embarrassed with the facial hair they do grow."
Avoiding the temptation to shave when the beard begins to get uncomfortable or itchy is another obstacle.
"It can definitely be uncomfortable growing a beard," said Chris Agness, senior in finance. "A lot of guys let it get to them, and they end up shaving."
Agness, who had proudly been growing a beard until he shaved it for a Halloween costume, doesn't think No Shave November should only pertain to the month of November.
"I have a couple of friends who pretty much participate in No Shave November year-round," he said. "It gets to be a competition with your friends."
While men see No Shave November as a competition and sign of status for being able to grow the burliest beard, the women of Auburn's campus also have something to say about it.
"I don't mind it too much," said Amelia Cheeley, senior in international business. "I actually think it's pretty funny to watch some of these guys give it a try, especially toward the end of the month. I'm just glad girls don't have participate in something like this."
Even though No Shave November is the most popular month for men to celebrate their masculinity, other variations include Don't Shave December, Forget to Shave February and Masculine March.
Movember, a combination of the words "mustache" and "November," aims to raise money for cancer affecting men, specifically prostate cancer.
Movember began in Australia in 2003 and is a worldwide phenomenon similar to No Shave November. Men grow a mustache throughout November to raise awareness for men's health.
To date, Movember has raised more than $42 million for the cause.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
