The present invention provides an external-use liquid skin-conditioning composition that not only reduces the sticky and friction sensations caused by the inclusion of tranexamic acid, but also has a rich body without feeling slimy and softens the skin after use. The composition comprises (A) 0.5 to 5 mass % of at least one hem selected from a group consisting of tranexarnic acid and derivatives thereof and (B) 0.005 to 1.5 mass % of carboxymethylcellulose, has a viscosity of no greater than 500 mPa·s at 30° C., and is transparent or semitransparent with an L value between 50 and 100 inclusive. Preferably the composition contains only carboxymethylcellulose as a thickener.