The present disclosure relates to providing a substance and a composition that promote the proliferation of epidermal stem cells and are effective in improving wrinkles and barrier function from the viewpoint of maintaining or improving quality of life (QOL) in terms of both health and beauty. More specifically, a composition including 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-imidazolidinone (HEI) or a derivative thereof and a seaweed extract such as Marinwort IPC-12 AGS can be used to promote the proliferation of epidermal stem cells and obtain a beneficial effect on wrinkles and barrier function.