Not to be outdone, No Shave November is an initiative that exploded in 2009 after the Chicago-based Hill family lost their father to colon cancer and wanted to raise money for charity in his honor. Since then, No Shavers has helped raise more than $12 million for cancer research and prevention.

No Shave November is run by the Matthew Hill Foundation, and participants — men and women — literally grow out their hair instead of shaving or grooming it for 30 days. No Shavers then donates the money they don't spend on things like razors, haircuts and waxing appointments to support cancer research and education. The idea is to embrace your hair because so many people undergoing cancer treatments lose theirs.

"We recognize that this form of fundraising may not be for everyone and that is fine," says Brett, communications coordinator for the Matthew Hill Foundation. We don't discriminate, but defeating cancer is going to take all of us, which is why we will always encourage everyone to participate and get hairy. What is more important than raising funds for cancer awareness, screenings and education?

No Shave November encourages people to register and establish fundraising pages, and groups can grow out their hair as a team, as well. Even if you have no interest in growing a beard or moustache (or you have no hair!) you can still support a No Shaver or make a general donation.