Tretinoin causes peeling and dryness initially because it accelerates skin cell turnover, which sheds old skin faster and exposes newer, more sensitive layers, leading to flaking, redness, and irritation. To reduce these effects without stopping treatment, you can start slowly (every other night), use a gentle cleanser, and apply a moisturizer before and/or after tretinoin (the “moisturizer sandwich” method) to buffer irritation. If peeling or redness becomes severe or persistent, it’s important to consult a dermatologist, who can adjust the concentration, frequency, or formulation to maintain effectiveness while minimizing discomfort.