Skin contains somatic stem cells that generate keratinocyte, melanocyte and mesenchymal cell lineages. These somatic stem cells have traditionally been thought to be restricted in their differentiation and regeneration potential to the tissues in which they reside. This review focused on epidermal stem cells (ESCs). These cells are distinguished from transitory amplifier cells and post-mitotic cells. ESC are found in the interadnexal epidermis and in the bulge region of hair follicles. A series of ESCs markers are available, but increased sensitivity and specificity require further development.