Kate Vong

ReSettle: an antimicrobial UV-curable nail gel for immunocompromised patients

Started Nov. 20, 2025

Abstract or project description

ReSettle is a business concept designed to provide nail service options to recovering chemotherapy patients by developing safer nail products. I found that getting their nails done after chemotherapy felt like a step closer to normal for many patients who previously got their nails done, but cancer patients are strongly advised not to get artificial gel nails after their last treatment. The number one reason for that is microbial infections caused by trapped moisture under the artificial nails. Infections in immunocompromised patients, like recovering cancer patients, can easily be fatal. Hence, my project is designing a UV-curable interface layer integrated with silver phosphate glass that would go between the natural nail and the gel adhesive. I am researching the ingredients that would work with the glass and provide the best balance of antimicrobial activity, flexibility, adhesion, optical clarity, and safety. Overall, my project, ReSettle, delves into the possibility of creating a product to reduce microbial infections in immunocompromised patients to aid their recovery process.