Do It London’s carnival-inspired nail bar aims to break HIV stigma and empower women with essential health information
A vibrant pop-up nail salon offering free carnival-themed manicures and confidential HIV testing advice is opening in Peckham on Thursday August 21, 2025.
Launched by the London HIV Prevention Programme (LHPP) as part of its Do It London campaign, the ‘Tips & Test’ initiative aims to make HIV testing more accessible and relevant.
Hosted at Peckham Palms, a Black-owned, female-first business hub, the one-day-only event will run from 3pm to 9pm, offering walk-in and bookable appointments for express manicures paired with informal conversations around HIV testing and prevention.
Read our top tips for becoming an HIV-inclusive business here.
Free manicures and vital conversations
The pop-up is designed to offer beauty and wellness with a purpose. Attendees can enjoy a free express manicure, choosing from three bold and fun designs created by celebrity nail artist Shea Osei, whose work recently featured on Cynthia Erivo in the blockbuster film Wicked.
Guests can opt for vibrant block colours and accent nails in leopard print, camo or stripes, designed to pop at Carnival celebrations.
All nail technicians will be equipped to have friendly, non-judgemental conversations around HIV testing options, and clients will be able to sign up for a free HIV self-test kit during their appointment.
“We almost become pals, so chatting about something as important as HIV testing just comes easily,” said Osei.
“I loved bringing the Do It London story to life in my designs – it was so fun celebrating the culture of Notting Hill Carnival and the important message of HIV testing.”
Check out our exclusive interview with Shea Osei for the full story on working behind the scenes on the Wicked movie, championing diversity in the beauty industry, and how aspiring nail techs can follow in her footsteps.
New data shows need for more HIV awareness among women
The initiative responds to new research from the LHPP which highlights a worrying information gap around HIV among London women:
- Only 4% of women in London feel that regular HIV testing is important for their wellbeing
- In contrast, 25% say that getting their nails done is important for their physical or mental wellbeing
- While 31% of women in London have had their nails done in the past year (rising to 38% among Black women), just 4% have taken an HIV test
“Women account for a quarter of new HIV diagnoses, but they are living in an information vacuum,” said Marc Thompson, lead commissioner of the London HIV Prevention Programme.
“We wanted to talk to them about HIV in an environment they know and feel at ease. We hope our pop-up will empower them to take charge of their health.”
Ending HIV transmission in London by 2030
Do It London’s goal is to end new HIV transmissions in the capital by 2030, encouraging everyone to take simple steps like regular testing.
However, current trends show uneven progress across demographic groups, with increasing cases among Black African communities in particular.
The campaign stresses the importance of free, confidential HIV tests, available through clinics, GPs, outreach teams or home-delivered kits.
Tips & Test event details
What: Do It London: Tips & Test – free nail art pop-up with HIV testing advice
Where: Peckham Palms, 1–14 Bournemouth Close, London SE15 4PB
When: Thursday August 21, 3pm–9pm
How: Book a free appointment online or walk in (first come, first served)
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