There is provided an external preparation for wounds which has novel usability in treating skin damages accompanied by a large amount of exudation such as bedsores, skin ulcers, and burns, and yet has such advantages as observed in conventional medicines having been employed in treating these wounds. The external preparation for wounds comprises a water-soluble polymer and a crosslinking agent, and has powdery/granular or ointment form. After absorbing an exudation, the preparation undergoes phase transition from a sol to a gel by the action of ingredient of the preparation, and thus exhibits actions of adsorbing and eliminating necrotic tissues, and protecting the wounded parts. Subsequently, it can continuously absorb the exudation. After being used, it can be easily separated substantially as a mass, thereby exhibiting high therapeutic effects and usability.