Embodiments of the invention generally relate to pharmaceutical compositions containing at least one caffeic acid compound and methods for the topical treatment of proliferative and inflammatory skin disorders such as plaque psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and other disorders. In some embodiments, the topical treatment includes applications of the pharmaceutical composition containing at least one caffeic acid compound or a mixture of caffeic acid compounds such as caffeic acid ester compounds, caffeic acid amide compounds, analogues thereof, derivatives thereof, salts thereof, or mixtures thereof. The pharmaceutical composition or topical dosage may contain the caffeic acid compound at a concentration by weight within a range from about 0.01% to about 20%, preferably, from about 0.1% to about 15%, preferably, from about 1% to about 10%, more preferably, from about 3% to about 7%, and more preferably, from about 4% to about 6%.
