Drunk Elephant changed the skincare game with their 'Suspicious 6' philosophy - avoiding six potentially irritating ingredients. Beste No. 9 is their flagship cleanser.
We tested it for 5 weeks as part of complete Drunk Elephant routine. Result? We understood why the brand has such a devoted fanbase.
Drunk Elephant doesn't make products based on trends. They make them based on science.
The 'biocompatibility' philosophy means the product respects skin's natural balance.
Performance & Results
Beste No. 9 is minimalist but effective. After 5 weeks:
Cleansing: Gel thoroughly cleanses without tight feeling. pH 6.1 respects skin barrier.
Gentleness: No irritation whatsoever. 'Suspicious 6' philosophy really works.
Consistency: Every use is equally pleasant. No quality fluctuations.
Compatibility: Works perfectly with other DE products and competing brands.
Texture & Application
Clear gel with unique jelly consistency - hence the name 'Jelly'.
During application: Gel spreads gently, creates light foam.
Rinsing: Rinses clean without residue.
Scent: Fragrance-free - only natural ingredient scent. Some may miss it.
Experience: Minimalist, clean, effective.
Formula & Ingredients
Drunk Elephant is obsessed with ingredients - and it shows.
Key ingredients:
- Cantella asiatica for soothing
- Coconut-derived surfactants for gentle cleansing
- Glycerin for hydration
- Free of 'Suspicious 6' (silicones, essential oils, fragrance, SLS, chemical sunscreens, drying alcohols)
pH 6.1: Optimal for maintaining skin barrier.
Comparison
vs. Fresh Soy: Fresh is more hydrating and removes makeup better. DE has cleaner formula.
vs. Tata Harper: Tata Harper is more luxurious experience. DE is more science-oriented.
vs. CeraVe Hydrating: CeraVe has ceramides, DE has cleaner formula. Huge price difference.
Score Breakdown
Pros & Cons
Pros
Free of 'Suspicious 6' ingredients
6.1 for healthy skin barrier
For all skin types
Ideal for sensitive skin
Cons
Premium price category
Need Slaai for heavy makeup
Some prefer fragrant products
How to Use
Pair With
Alternatives
Fresh Soy Cleanser
If you want better makeup removal
Bioderma Sensibio
If looking for pharmacy alternative
Final Verdict
Drunk Elephant Beste No. 9 is for those who appreciate clean formulas and scientific approach to skincare. It's not the best cleanser on the market, but it's one of the safest. For clean beauty fans, it's a clear choice.
Buy if
- Prefer clean beauty
- Have sensitive skin
- Want simple, effective formula
Skip if
- Have limited budget
- Need strong makeup removal
- Prefer fragrant products
FAQ
Six ingredient categories DE considers potentially irritating: silicones, essential oils, fragrance, SLS, chemical sunscreens, drying alcohols.
Yes, the gentle formula is compatible with active ingredients.
