Provided is an external composition excellent in stability and impression from use. An external composition containing (A) at least one member selected from the group consisting of ascorbic acid and salts of ascorbic acid, (B) at least one member selected from the group consisting of 3-O-ethylascorbic acid, salts of 3-O-ethylascorbic acid, and hydroxylated lecithin, and (C) polyethylene glycol is prepared.
