During Black History Month, we’re showcasing nurse inventors who pursued their dreams

Gray is certainly one of many nurses who’ve invented a product designed to satisfy health care needs. One of the primary nurse inventors was Bessie Blount Griffin, a black nurse from Chesapeake, Virginia, who invented a feeding tube called the “portable canister support” during World War II to assist paralyzed veterans.

Griffin device, which she later patented, involved a tube inserted into the patient’s mouth and releasing a small portion of food when the patient bit down. Thanks to this, patients could eat independently and comfortably in a vertical or horizontal position.

Creating a product that protects the skin

In 2018, Gray began experimenting with different ingredients to seek out a formula that may nourish and protect the skin without disturbing its natural balance.

“My background in healthcare gave me a fundamental understanding of the importance of the microbiome, which was instrumental in conceptualizing a range of skin care products that support rather than remove beneficial bacteria,” Gray said. “Although I had no formal background in chemistry, my medical knowledge and relentless pursuit of research filled this gap, guiding me through the complex process of developing a formula that harnessed the power of probiotics.”

In 2019, Gray was released Nuebiom, a plant-based skincare line made within the USA, vegan and cruelty-free. Five years later, his line has turn into successful with healthcare professionals and consumers alike.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” Gray said. “Nurses and other health care workers appreciate the thoughtfulness of each preparation, designed to meet the specific challenges they face with continuous hand washing and disinfection. It was rewarding to know that there was a product line that not only supported their skin, but also understood the rigors of their work environment.”

When founding Nuebiome, Gray worked full-time as a nurse and admits that turning her hand cream idea right into a tangible product was an enormous challenge.

“I went through over 30 changes to the original formulas, with the goal of perfection and skin care solutions that were effective yet functional,” he said. “This journey was not a solo one — I sought knowledge from skincare creators who shared the vision of creating a microbiome-friendly skincare line.”

Gray encourages other nurses who’ve ideas for innovation to leverage their unique insights and experiences.

“The health care industry provides a wealth of knowledge and perspective that is invaluable in identifying unmet needs,” Gray said. “Start with thorough research, prepare for a journey of knowledge, and don’t hesitate to seek out expertise when needed. Remember that resilience and passion are your greatest assets, and your commitment to caring for others can translate into creating products that really make a difference.

Today, Gray has expanded the Nuebiome line to include other skin care products and plans to open the company’s first retail location at Grand Central Station, Lexington Passage in New York City.

“I envision the retail space as an immersive environment where customers can interact with our products, feel the texture, appreciate the design and learn the benefits of each ingredient,” he said.