[Problem] To provide a composition for external skin use that has anti-inflammatory and antiallergic activity and is very safe. [Solution] A composition for external skin use for inflammatory diseases contains dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) as the active ingredient thereof. It is preferable for the DGLA to be present as a glyceride, a phospholipid, or an alkyl ester. The amount of DGLA contained in the composition for external use is 0.1-50 wt %.