An object of the present invention is to provide a gel-like cosmetic material the viscosity of which is not easily reduced even in the presence of an electrolyte, the cosmetic material ensuring an unconventional jelly-like feel when being applied to the skin, and a smooth sensation after being applied to the skin. The present invention provides a gel-like composition comprising 0.3 to 3 mass% of an alkyl-modified carboxyl-group-containing water-soluble polymer, 3 to 20 mass% of a polyhydric alcohol, and 0.25 to 5 mass% of an inorganic salt, the alkyl-modified carboxyl-group-containing water-soluble polymer being (i) a polymer obtained by polymerizing a (meth)acrylic acid and a C 18-24 alkyl-containing (meth) acrylic acid alkyl ester, or (ii) a polymer obtained by polymerizing a (meta)acrylic acid, a C 18-24 alkyl-containing (meth)acrylic acid alkyl ester, and a compound having two or more ethylenically unsaturated groups.
