A protein embedded in the surface of the membranes of skin cells. The receptor consisting of (1) an outside (of the cell membrane) enzyme that recognizes epidermal growth factor (EGF) and binds to it, and (2) an enzyme on the inside of the cell membrane, which is of the tyrosine kinase class. When free EGF comes in contact with an EGF receptor, they bind (in a lock-and-key fashion), and then enter the cell (through the cell membrane) together (where EGF then stimulates growth). The EGF receptor (and receptors in general) is like a butler who allows the EGF (a guest) to enter the cell (home).