An external preparation containing the following components (A), (B), (C), and (D): (A) a non-steroidal analgesic/anti-inflammatory agent, (B) a terpene and/or an essential oil containing a terpene, (C) a higher alcohol, and (D) a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether and/or a polyoxyalkylene alkenyl ether. The external preparation of the present invention has improved skin permeation, and can thus be effective at a low concentration, and also has excellent appearance.