Disclosed are topical leave-on cosmetic compositions, including packaged leave-on compositions, for direct application to the scalp, comprising a) from about 40% to about 99% by weight of a volatile liquid, b) from about 0.005% to about 20% by weight of a skin active agent, and c) from about 0.1% to about 20% by weight of a moisturizing material, preferably a liquid humectant. The composition is a leave-on formulation that is substantially free of cleansing surfactants and is applied directly to the scalp. Also disclosed are methods of treating the scalp by directly applying the topical composition to the scalp. It has been found that the compositions and methods of the present invention can provide improved scalp moisturization and improved deposition of an anti-dandruff or other skin active agent on the skin, without unduly affecting hair cosmetics.