The present invention provides a water-based composition comprising a non-emulsifying crosslinked silicone elastomer in an amount effective to decrease the amount of sebum on the hair or scalp. The water-based compositions of the present invention are in non-emulsion form. More preferably, the water-based compositions of the present invention have a suspending agent in an amount effective to suspend the crosslinked silicone elastomer within the water-based composition. The present invention also provides to a method of method for absorbing and/or removing sebum and/or styling product residue from the hair or scalp. The method comprises the step of applying the water-based composition to the hair and/or scalp. Preferably, the water-based hair composition is distributed through the hair and/or scalp, e.g., by using a comb or brush.