Programmed cell death (PCD) is a basic component of life and an important terminal path for cells. A variety of biological events are associated with PCD, including the conservation of tissue homeostasis and removal of harmful cells. Overexposure of the skin to UV radiation causes skin photodamage. Keratinocytes are the first line of defence against ultraviolet radiation. During UV radiation, the keratinocyte can undergo four modes of PCD: apoptosis, pyroptosis, necroptosis and autophagy. The molecular mechanisms of these four modes of PCD have been widely studied as potential therapeutic targets for the prevention of UV‐induced skin inflammation, ageing and skin cancer. In this review, we summarize the role of keratinocyte PCD in the pathogenesis of UV‐induced skin photodamage. This article will provide new research directions for the design of intervention strategies for the treatment and prevention of skin photodamage.