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Best Water Based Hair Gel (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a styling product that won't dry out your hair, water-based hair gel might be just what you need. Unlike some other types of hair gel, it doesn't contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals that can damage your hair or scalp. Plus, it's versatile and easy to use, whether you're going for a tousled look or a sleek, polished finish.

Before you buy any hair gel, there are a few factors you should consider. First, think about your hair type and texture. If you have thin, fine hair, you'll want to avoid heavy, greasy products that can weigh it down. On the other hand, if you have thick, coarse hair, you may need a stronger hold to tame unruly strands. You should also consider the ingredients in the gel, making sure they won't irritate your skin or cause allergic reactions.

Do you struggle to find a styling product that works for your hair? Have you been disappointed by hair gels that promised great results but left your hair feeling dry or crunchy? Are you tired of wasting money on products that don't deliver? If so, water-based hair gel may be the solution you've been searching for. Not only is it gentle on your hair and scalp, but it can also help you achieve the look you want without all the fuss. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?

10 Best Water Based Hair Gel

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for men who want a strong hold hair styling pomade with medium shine and easy wash out.
2
This product is ideal for men who want a medium hold, medium shine hair styling product that is easy to wash out.
3
Ideal for people with an active lifestyle who want maximum hold, volume, and sheen without damaging their hair.
4
This product is ideal for achieving a natural finish with medium firm hold and can be used as a paste, wax, fiber, clay, or gel.
5
This hair pomade is ideal for men who want a water-based, strong hold styling product that is easy to wash out.
6
Ideal for men wanting a medium hold, matte finish pomade that is water-based and easy to wash out.
7
The product is ideal for styling men's hair into silky and smooth 360 waves with strong hold, easy wash, and barber/waver accessories.
8
This product is ideal for hair styling and achieving a strong hold for both men and women.
9
Ideal for men's hair styling with strong hold, medium shine, and easy wash-out features suitable for any hair style.
10
This product is an unscented, water-based personal lubricant that can be used for couples or solo play, and is safe with sex toys.
This product is ideal for men who want a strong hold hair styling pomade with medium shine and easy wash out.
This product is ideal for men who want a medium hold, medium shine hair styling product that is easy to wash out.
Ideal for people with an active lifestyle who want maximum hold, volume, and sheen without damaging their hair.
This product is ideal for achieving a natural finish with medium firm hold and can be used as a paste, wax, fiber, clay, or gel.
This hair pomade is ideal for men who want a water-based, strong hold styling product that is easy to wash out.
Ideal for men wanting a medium hold, matte finish pomade that is water-based and easy to wash out.
The product is ideal for styling men's hair into silky and smooth 360 waves with strong hold, easy wash, and barber/waver accessories.
This product is ideal for hair styling and achieving a strong hold for both men and women.
Ideal for men's hair styling with strong hold, medium shine, and easy wash-out features suitable for any hair style.
This product is an unscented, water-based personal lubricant that can be used for couples or solo play, and is safe with sex toys.

1. Strong Hold Men's Pomade – Suavecito

Get a healthy and vibrant look with this moderate shine pomade that comes with a creamy consistency. The pomade can be used on damp hair for more shine and on dry hair for less shine. Achieve maximum styling flexibility and less mess with the strong grip provided by Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold. It combs with ease, making it easy to style your hair without any frustration. This pomade is perfect for hairstyles such as pompadours, slick backs, and side parts. You can achieve any hair style you desire with this pomade. Suavecito Pomade is made in the United States and is 100% community approved, taking inspiration from the community it thrives in. Wash out the pomade easily with just water, without leaving any greasiness or staining. The pomade does not contain any harsh chemicals that can damage the scalp or dry out the hair. After a quick rinse, your hair will feel healthy and clean. If you have easy-to-manage hair, you can also try our medium hold Original Hold Pomade.

Pros

  • Provides moderate shine to hair
  • Washes out easily with just water
  • Combs with ease and provides a strong grip for maximum styling flexibility
  • Perfect for hairstyles such as pompadours, slick backs, and side parts
  • Made in the United States
  • No harsh chemicals to dry out hair or damage the scalp
  • Leaves hair feeling healthy and clean after a quick rinse
  • 100% community approved

2. Suavehold – Medium Shine Hair Pomade For Men.

Suavecito Original Hold Pomade is a high-quality hair care product that comes with a medium strength. It offers maximum styling flexibility, making it a perfect choice for both short and long hair. It dries with a medium hardness without leaving any crunchy finish. The pomade is water-soluble, making it easy to wash off like hair gel, and it grips your hair like wax.

This lightly scented pomade combs in easily with no white residue, leaving a clean and fresh smell. It is perfect for classic, modern, retro, and old school styles, providing a moderate shine that lasts all day. The pomade has an easy creamy consistency, making it suitable for professional barbers, hair stylists, bartenders, and men on the go. Suavecito prides itself on community and quality, and the pomade is made 100% in the USA.

Suavecito Original Hold Pomade is the ultimate hair care product that provides the best of both worlds. It offers a medium hold that combs in effortlessly, making it an excellent choice for those who want to look good any time of the day or night.

Pros

  • Provides maximum styling flexibility for both short and long hair
  • Water-soluble and washes out like hair gel
  • Combs in easily with no white residue
  • Moderate shine that lasts all day
  • Easy creamy consistency suitable for professional barbers, hair stylists, bartenders, and men on the go
  • Made 100% in the USA

3. Ecosport Gel: Maximum Hold For Active Lifestyles

Eco Style Professional Styling Gel presents a wide range of alcohol-free hair styling products to cater to your unique hair styling needs. The brand has been offering the largest collection of hair styling gels since its inception, ensuring that you always find the perfect gel for any style you desire.

Ecoco Eco Style Gel, Sport is a water-based hair styling gel that penetrates your hair to deliver moisture, nourishing it and keeping it healthy. The gel is alcohol-free, providing a long-lasting hold without drying out your hair. The natural ingredients in the gel help maintain your hair's hydration while keeping it in place.

This styling gel delivers superior hold, making sure that your hairstyle stays in place throughout the day. It is formulated with natural ingredients that provide moisture, keeping your hair healthy and nourished. Don't compromise between hydration and hold with this gel. Enjoy both at the same time.

Eco Style Professional Styling Gel is manufactured in the USA, ensuring that the products meet the highest standards of quality. The brand's USA-based plants set the standard for quality products that care for you and the environment.

Ecoco leads the beauty industry in environmental consciousness and green technologies, making sure that the products are sustainable and eco-friendly. The brand is committed to preserving the environment and reducing its ecological footprint.

Pros

  • Offers a wide range of alcohol-free hair styling products
  • Provides moisture and nourishment to your hair
  • Delivers superior hold without drying out your hair
  • Formulated with natural ingredients
  • Manufactured in the USA
  • Committed to environmental consciousness and green technologies

4. Matte Medium-Firm Hair Paste For Men

The Challenger Matte hair styling cream is a popular choice for achieving a natural looking matte finish that is free from any shine. It works well on short, medium, and some longer hair styles, and has a professional and high-quality matte look that will make you look good on every occasion. With a quality medium-firm hold, this hair styling cream is up to the task of holding shape all day long. It can be applied to damp or towel-dry hair and does not leave any flakes like some pomades or clumping like clay products. The subtle and clean scent of Challenger Matte is another feature that you'll love, as it won't have a lingering scent that stays with you throughout the day. The cream is also water soluble, making it easy to rinse out and saving you the hassle of using shampoo every time. The compact size of this product makes it perfect for travel, as it fits easily in your carry-on luggage, backpacks, and other small bags, providing you with quality matte styling product when you're on the go.

Pros

  • Natural/matte finish that is very popular today
  • All-day hold with a quality medium-firm hold
  • Clean, subtle scent
  • Easy to rinse out because it's water-soluble
  • Travel-friendly size

5. Barber Approved Urban Prince Pomade – 15oz

Achieve a long-lasting and strong hold with the New BushKlawz Urban Prince Strong Hold Water Based Pomade. This pomade is designed to work as hard as you do and conquer even the thickest hair and styles. Its strong hold lasts all day, ensuring that your hair stays in place and looking good.

Unlike other products on the market, this pomade washes out easily with just water. You won't have to worry about any flaking or residue left in your hair after washing it out. The formula is designed to leave your hair feeling clean and fresh.

This pomade not only holds your style in place all day but also protects and conditions your hair. Its blend of keratin, argan oil, castor oil, and chia seed oil nourishes your hair without stripping it of its natural oils. This ensures that your hair remains healthy and strong even after multiple uses.

The proprietary Urban Prince fragrance adds a great scent to your hair, which complements the other products in the BushKlawz Men's Care and Beard Care line. The line also includes beard oil, beard balm, all-in-one wash, and exfoliating soap.

This pomade is suitable for creating any look, from modern hard combed styles to iconic pompadours, slick backs, side parts, rockabilly, or ducktail. Manage them all with BushKlawz Urban Prince Pomade.

Pros

  • Provides a long-lasting and strong hold that lasts all day
  • Washes out easily with just water without leaving any flaking or residue
  • Conditions and nourishes hair with its blend of keratin, argan oil, castor oil, and chia seed oil
  • Has a great Urban Prince fragrance that complements other products in the line
  • Suitable for creating any desired look

6. Classic Matte Pomade – Viking Revolution For Men

Achieve a natural matte finish and perfect hold for any hairstyle with the Outstanding Performance hair styling wax. This product offers a versatile solution for men with any hair length and cut, making it great for creating pompadours and side parts. The water-soluble formula makes it easy to rinse out, eliminating the need to wash your hair multiple times. Unlike other hair styling products, Outstanding Performance contains no harsh chemicals that can leave your hair dry and damaged. After use, your hair will still feel smooth and healthy. The Viking Promise ensures that if you are not completely satisfied with the product, simply contact the company for assistance.

Pros

  • Provides natural matte finish
  • Works well on any hair length and cut
  • Water-soluble formula makes it easy to rinse out
  • Contains no harsh chemicals
  • Leaves hair feeling smooth and healthy
  • Customer satisfaction guaranteed with the Viking Promise

7. 360 Wave Styling Gel – Silky & Strong Hold

Achieve the perfect 360 waves hair pattern with this easy to apply pomade. It locks in and deepens your wave hair pattern, preventing forks and hair from sticking up or out. Simply apply it after brushing to train your hair for wave making.

This water-based formula means less residue and more shine, resulting in healthier hair. Unlike grease-based products, this pomade is easy to rinse out of hair and prevent build-up, dandruff, and dry hair follicles.

Get a strong, long-lasting hold with a light feel that is perfect for wolfing coarse curly or straight hair. This pomade promotes natural sheen waves and restores moisture to your hair texture, leaving it looking healthy and shiny.

This pomade is versatile and can be used for various unique looks. It can be used as an edge control gel or styling pomade for different hair textures, colors, treatments, patterns such as natural, relaxed, wavy, 4c, 4b, and other transitioning afro Latino hairstyles.

Enjoy the fresh original crown smell of this clear pomade, which has a unique scent that is very attractive.

Pros

  • Easy to apply and train hair for wave making
  • Water-based formula means less residue and more shine
  • Strong, long-lasting hold with a light feel
  • Promotes natural sheen waves and restores moisture to hair texture
  • Versatile and can be used for various unique looks
  • Fresh original crown smell

8. Slik Evo Aqua Gel: Strong Hold Styling Power

Achieve the perfect hairstyle with this water-based hair gel for men and women. Made with premium ingredients, this hair gel is an excellent option for styling hair and is sure to be a great addition to any hair care routine. Whether you're going for a sleek and sophisticated look or something more casual, this hair gel is sure to help you get the results you want.

With its strong hold and frizz control, this men's hair gel is perfect for anyone looking to control their hair and achieve a polished look. It can be used by women, teens, and kids, making it a versatile option for anyone in need of a reliable hair styling product. The delicate smell and wet hair effect gives you the perfect finishing touch to your look, making it ideal for use in professional settings or for everyday wear.

Designed to provide a strong hold, this men's hair wax is easy to use and easy to remove. Simply take a small amount of the aqua hair wax in your hand and apply it to your hair, molding and shaping it as desired. The result is a silky smooth finish that is sure to turn heads wherever you go. Perfect for use as a hair pomade for men, this gel wax is an excellent option for anyone looking for a reliable hair styling product.

This hair gel comes in a 5 oz / 140 gram case, making it easy to store and transport. It is also easy to wash and rinse with water, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you're getting ready for work or getting ready for a night out on the town, this hair gel is sure to help you achieve the perfect look every time.

Pros

  • Made with premium ingredients
  • Strong hold and frizz control
  • Delicate smell and wet hair effect
  • Easy to use and remove
  • Versatile option for men, women, teens, and kids

Cons

  • – No information provided

9. Strong Hold Men's Pomade – Suavecito Firme

Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold is a moderate shine pomade that provides a healthy and vibrant shine to your hair. It has a creamy consistency that makes it easy to apply. You can apply it to damp hair for more shine, or to dry hair for less shine. This pomade is perfect for hairstyles such as pompadours, slick backs, and side parts. It has a strong hold that helps you achieve any hair style with ease.

This water-soluble pomade washes out easily with just water, and no special shampoos or soaps are needed. It does not leave your hair greasy or stained after washing out. This means that you don't have to worry about harsh chemicals that can dry out your hair or damage your scalp. After a quick rinse, your hair will feel healthy and clean.

Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold combs with ease, making it easy to style your hair without frustration. It provides a sturdy grip for maximum styling flexibility and less scruffy mess. This pomade is community approved and made 100% in the United States. Suavecito Pomade takes its inspiration from the community it’s thrived in, and prides itself on community and quality.

Pros

  • Provides a healthy and vibrant shine to your hair.
  • Washes out easily with just water.
  • Leaves hair feeling healthy and clean after a quick rinse.
  • Combs with ease, making it easy to style your hair without frustration.
  • Provides a sturdy grip for maximum styling flexibility and less scruffy mess.
  • Community approved and made 100% in the United States.
  • Perfect for hairstyles such as pompadours, slick backs, and side parts.

10. Passion Lubes: Ultimate Couples' Water-Based Lubricant

Passion Natural Water Based Lubricant is the perfect choice for couples who want to enhance their intimate moments. This silky smooth lubricant is formulated with all-natural ingredients that provide a natural feel. The texture of the lubricant helps glide toys, tools, or body parts, making it perfect for personal use or with a partner. The long-lasting formula ensures that you stay moist longer, providing extended pleasure for those wild bedroom sessions.

The Passion Natural Water Based Lubricant is easy to clean and doesn’t get sticky. It can be easily washed away with warm water and mild soap. The spill-proof pump bottle makes it easy to apply, and it’s non-staining, so it won’t leave any marks on clothes or sheets.

This lubricant is safe to use with toys and on the body. It’s hypoallergenic and free of parabens, perfumes, hormones, petrochemicals, and glycerin, making it perfect for sensitive skin. The Passion Natural Water Based Lubricant is proudly made in the USA with high-quality ingredients and high standards. The twin pack comes with two 34 oz bottles, providing a total of 68 oz of lubricant.

Pros

  • All-natural ingredients provide a natural feel
  • Long-lasting formula ensures extended pleasure
  • Easy to clean and doesn’t get sticky
  • Safe to use with toys and on the body
  • Hypoallergenic and free of parabens, perfumes, hormones, petrochemicals, and glycerin
  • Spill-proof pump bottle for easy application
  • Non-staining, won’t leave marks on clothes or sheets
  • Proudly made in the USA

Best Water Based Hair Gel FAQs

Can water-based hair gel be used on all hair types?

Water-based hair gel is an excellent styling product that can be used on most hair types. This type of hair gel is preferred by people who want a lightweight, non-greasy, and non-sticky hair styling product that is easy to wash off. Water-based gel works by providing hold to the hair without drying it out or leaving any residue behind.

One of the significant advantages of water-based hair gel is that it is suitable for all hair types, including curly, wavy, straight, and thick hair. It can provide a natural-looking hold without weighing down the hair or causing any damage. However, the amount of gel used should vary depending on the hair type and texture. For instance, people with thicker and coarser hair should use more hair gel, while those with fine hair should use a minimal amount to avoid weighing the hair down.

In conclusion, water-based hair gel is an excellent styling product that can be used on all hair types. It provides a natural-looking hold without causing any damage, but the amount used should vary depending on the hair type and texture.

How does a water-based hair gel differ from an oil-based one?

Water-based hair gels and oil-based hair gels are two different types of hair styling products that have different compositions, properties, and effects on the hair.

Water-based hair gels are made up of water and other water-soluble ingredients such as polymers, humectants, and preservatives. They are usually lightweight, non-greasy, and easy to wash off. They provide a strong hold and a natural-looking finish to the hair without leaving any residue or buildup. They are also suitable for all hair types, especially for those with fine or thin hair.

On the other hand, oil-based hair gels are made up of oils, waxes, and other oil-soluble ingredients such as emollients, silicones, and fragrances. They are usually heavier, greasier, and harder to wash off. They provide a strong hold and a shiny finish to the hair but can leave a residue or buildup if not properly washed off. They are more suitable for thick or coarse hair types that need extra moisture and nourishment.

In summary, the main difference between water-based and oil-based hair gels is their composition and their effects on the hair. Water-based gels are lightweight, non-greasy, and easy to wash off, while oil-based gels are heavier, greasier, and provide extra moisture and shine to the hair.

How long does water-based hair gel typically hold a hairstyle?

The hold of water-based hair gel depends on various factors such as the hair type, texture, length, and amount of product used. Generally, water-based hair gels provide a light to medium hold that lasts for a few hours, usually up to 6-8 hours. However, some high-quality water-based hair gels can hold a hairstyle for up to 12 hours or more.

One advantage of using water-based hair gel is that it doesn't leave any residue or flakes on the hair, unlike oil-based hair gels. It is also easy to wash off with water, which is another plus point. However, if you are looking for a stronger hold, you might want to consider using a pomade or wax, which can provide a firmer hold for a longer duration.

In summary, the hold of water-based hair gel varies from product to product and depends on several factors. It is advisable to choose a hair gel that suits your hair type and desired hold level to achieve the best results.

What are the benefits of using a water-based hair gel?

Using a water-based hair gel comes with a number of benefits. Firstly, it is easier to wash out compared to oil-based gels. This means that you can avoid product buildup on your scalp and hair, which can lead to itching, flaking, and other scalp irritations. Additionally, water-based gels offer a lightweight hold that is perfect for those who prefer a natural-looking hairstyle without the stiffness or crunch that comes with some oil-based gels.

Another benefit of using a water-based hair gel is that it does not leave any residue on your hair or clothing. This is particularly useful for those who are always on the go and need a quick and easy styling solution that doesn't leave a mess. Finally, water-based gels are usually infused with natural ingredients that help to nourish and protect the hair, making it look healthier, shinier, and more manageable.

Overall, water-based hair gels are a great option for anyone looking for a styling product that is easy to use, lightweight, and gentle on the hair and scalp.

What ingredients should I look for in a high-quality water-based hair gel?

When it comes to choosing a high-quality water-based hair gel, there are a few key ingredients that you should look for. First and foremost, the gel should contain water as the primary ingredient, as this will help to ensure that it is lightweight and won't weigh down your hair.

Another important ingredient to look for is glycerin, which is a natural humectant that helps to attract moisture to your hair. This can help to keep your hair hydrated and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.

Other beneficial ingredients to look for in a water-based hair gel include aloe vera, which can soothe and moisturize the scalp, and panthenol, which can help to strengthen and protect the hair.

It's also important to choose a hair gel that is free from harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens, which can strip the hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness and damage.

By choosing a high-quality water-based hair gel that contains these key ingredients, you can help to ensure that your hair looks and feels its best, while also protecting it from damage and keeping it healthy and hydrated.

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