PAINT YOUR NAILS FOR A WEEK. CHANGE HOW YOU SHOW UP AS A MAN.
Hard As Nails is a national experiment running from 29 September – 31 October 2026. You paint your nails for a week. You go about your life. We measure what changes. The evidence already shows it works — 83% of men who took part had conversations they’d never had before.
Our pilot study showed promise, with participants reporting greater empathy, deeper conversations on topics such as mental health, and more confidence to step outside of traditional norms.
Now, we’re taking it further.
This is your chance to take part in the next phase of HAN’s research — the national experiment running from 29 September to 31 October 2026.This isn’t about telling men what to do. It broadens the conversation and allows us to explore what works together.
What’s Involved?
HERE’S WHAT’S INVOLVED:
Paint Your Nails
Sign up below. We’ll all be doing this together across the 29 September – 31 October 2026 window. You can do it at home, with family, friends or partners, or join one of our partner salons or men’s groups for a more social experience.
1
Wear Them for a Week
Go about your usual activities—meetings, the gym, the pub, sports—while wearing your painted nails. We understand it may feel uncomfortable at times, and you’re free to remove the polish if you feel unsafe.
2
Reflect on Your Experience
Complete a short assessment (~15 minutes) before, after, and six weeks later to measure your thoughts and feelings.
3
Keep a Daily Diary
You’ll receive short, reflective prompts via email each day to document your thoughts, reactions, and observations.
4
Join an Online Research Group
After your week is complete, we’ll invite you to share your experiences in a supportive group setting (optional).
5
KEY INFO FOR TAKING PART
Anonymity: You can choose to participate anonymously or publicly—it’s entirely up to you.
Safety: Your well-being is our priority. You can remove your nail polish at any time if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
Optional Sharing: If you’re comfortable, your stories, pictures, and insights may be featured in future campaigns.