Keratinocyte cell culture has been studied by a large number of investigators, resulting in an extensive body of often contradictory literature. The advantages and disadvantages of the two major techniques, explant and disaggregated culture, will be examined, followed by a critical evaluation of the major technical variables. Suggested standardized methods for both explant and disaggregated culture, and the indications for the use of each, will be proposed. Finally, further directions for basic research will be suggested in order to improve this useful tool.