With the advent of new biological agents, interest in the treatment of psoriasis has been renewed. Vitamin A and its derivatives (retinoids) have been used successfully in the treatment of psoriasis for over 30 years. In this paper, data on the efficacy and safety of oral retinoids for the treatment of various forms of psoriasis is reviewed. Studies have shown that retinoids are particularly effective in the treatment of pustular and palmoplantar psoriasis. When used in conjunction with ultraviolet therapy, retinoids appear to have a synergistic effect and can be used safely as long-term maintenance therapy. The most common side effects of oral retinoids are usually modest, treatable or reversible, and predominantly affect the liver, musculoskeletal and neurological systems. Potential teratogenicity remains the primary concern with use in women. Oral retinoids appear to be well tolerated in paediatric and HIV-infected patients.