This invention provides novel methods for inducing hair growth and/or inhibiting hair loss and/or inducing nail growth in a mammal. In various embodiments the methods involve administering, e.g., to a mammal in need thereof, a calcium-binding peptide and/or peptide-like moiety in an amount sufficient to induce hair growth and/or to inhibit hair loss. In certain embodiments the agent is topically and/or transdermally administered.