Emerging evidence suggests that transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels not only act as ‘polymodal cellular sensors’ on sensory neurons but are also functionally expressed by a multitude of non‐neuronal cell types. This is especially true in the skin, one of the largest organs of the body, where they appear to be critically involved in regulating various cutaneous functions both under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. In this review, we focus on introducing the roles of several cutaneousTRPchannels in the regulation of the skin barrier, skin cell proliferation and differentiation, and immune functions. Moreover, we also describe the putative involvement of severalTRPchannels in the development of certain skin diseases and identify futureTRPchannel‐targeted therapeutic opportunities.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on the pharmacology of TRP channels. To view the other articles in this section visithttp://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐10