METHODS FOR REGULATING THE CONDITION OF MAMMALIAN KERATINOUSTISSUE

The present invention relates to methods for regulating the condition of mammalian keratinous tissue wherein the methods comprise the step of topical ly applying to the keratinous tissue of a mammal needing such treatment, a safe and effective amount of a composition comprising: a) a safe and effective amount of farnesol; and b) a dermatologically-acceptable carrier for the farnesol. In additional embodiments, the above composition is suitable for thickening skin and preventing and/or retarding atrophy of mammalian skin, preventing and/or retarding the appearance of spider vessels and/or red blotchiness on mammalian skin, preventing and/or retarding the appearance of dark circles under the eye of a mammal, preventing and/or retarding sallowne ss of mammalian skin, preventing and/or retarding sagging of mammalian skin, softening and/or smoothing lips, hair and nails of a mammal, and preventing and/or relieving itch of mammalian skin.