Meet ERLY: The Brand Redefining Skincare for the Next Generation

The Hamptons Edit sat down with Jamie Chandlee and Dr. Hallie McDonald, the co-founders of ERLY, a forward-thinking skincare brand designed specifically for tweens, teens, and young adults. Rooted in their shared perspective as mothers and innovators, the duo is reimagining what early skincare can and should look like clean, safe, science-backed, and designed to educate the next generation on the importance of mindful routines.

From a medical perspective, what are the unique skincare needs of tweens, teens, and young adults?

This age group doesn’t need everything they see on TikTok or Instagram yet they’re often influenced to try products without really understanding the ingredients. About a year and a half ago, we noticed our own daughters using products that weren’t suited for their skin. As mothers, we felt a responsibility to create solutions that are simple, clean, and safe, while still addressing the specific needs of tween and Gen Z skin.

How do you approach developing a regimen for this age group?

Our philosophy is “less is more.” At this age, a solid routine doesn’t need to be complicated. Washing daily, using SPF, and applying moisturizer are the essentials. From there, we design targeted serums to meet individual concerns. For example, our Daily Splash, a hyaluronic acid serum, is deeply hydrating and plumping, while a niacinamide-based formula is especially supportive for those with acne-prone skin. The key is personalization and ensuring that every product is effective without overwhelming young skin.

You recently developed a facial treatment in partnership with Blue Water Spa in Southampton. How did you ensure it was both effective and gentle enough for younger skin?

Partnering with Blue Water Spa was a natural choice their philosophy is rooted in science, just like ours. Together, we created a facial that is completely customizable and hypoallergenic, designed to address the specific goals and sensitivities of each client. We were mindful to avoid any harsh irritants, instead focusing on treatments that nurture, protect, and educate young people about proper skincare from the very beginning.

Why is education such an important part of the ERLY experience, and how do you incorporate it into your treatments?

Education is central to who we are. We stay true to our mission of ensuring that the products young people use are both safe and effective for their age group. As mothers, we know how important it is to guide kids through the overwhelming amount of information they encounter online. That’s why ERLY is about more than products it’s about empowering tweens and teens to understand their skin and choose routines that serve them.

If you could give one piece of skincare advice to someone starting their first routine, what would it be?

SPF, every single day. It’s the most important step, without question. You can invest in all the products you want, but if you’re not protecting your skin from the sun, you’re missing the foundation of long-term skin health and beauty. Sunscreen is the ultimate essential.

With ERLY, Jamie Chandlee and Dr. Hallie McDonald are setting a new standard for how young people care for their skin. By focusing on clean ingredients, simple routines, and education rooted in science, they are empowering a new generation to embrace skincare with confidence, clarity, and joy. For Hamptons families raising the next wave of tastemakers, ERLY represents not only a brand but also a thoughtful philosophy: that wellness and beauty begin early, and should always be approached with intention.