The present invention relates to compositions for and methods of retarding hair loss or facilitating hair growth comprising a hair growth active, a C8-C24 alcohol ester of a carboxylic acid and a viscosity modifying agent comprising: a nonionic hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose and a high molecular weight carboxymethyl cellulose at a ratio of the nonionic hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose to the high molecular weight carboxymethyl cellulose of greater than about 1:1.