| Cover | Nov. 09, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 09, 2022 |
| Entity File Number | 1-13738 |
| Entity Registrant Name | PSYCHEMEDICS CORPORATION |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000806517 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 58-1701987 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 289 Great Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Acton |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 01720 |
| City Area Code | 978 |
| Local Phone Number | 206-8220 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock. $0.005 par value |
| Trading Symbol | PMD |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
