A composition for use in inducing or stimulating the growth of keratinous fibres, wherein the composition comprises pinene as an active ingredient is provided. Preferably at least 70% of the pinene is (-)-alpha pinene, more preferably the pinene is optically pure (-)-alpha pinene. The pinene may be present in an amount of between about 0.5% and about 10% (w/w). The keratinous fibre is preferably hair, wool, pelt, coat or fur. The composition may also be useful for increasing the density of the keratinous fibre. A method for inducing or stimulating growth of keratinous fibres comprising the step of administering to a subject an effective amount of a composition comprising pinene as an active ingredient and use of pinene for inducing or stimulating growth of keratinous fibres is also outlined.
