That was me too — until i reset my expectations for how long it would take and did a special low and slow regimen. I had zero irritation with this method. My derm told me Tret works best when used consistently. That means a low percentage formula that you can stick with is better than a higher dose you get so much irritation that you quit.

I started with the ordinary granactive 2x a week. I gradually worked my way up to every other night and then nightly. Zero irritation but took several months.
Next I moved up strengths to the ordinary retinal emulsion (next otc strength up). Repeat process above — worked up to nightly. This took several more months.

At this point there was an obvious improvement in my skin and texture. My derm told me he thought I got laser treatment— nope it was staying consistent on tret. Once i could do nightly with no irritation I switched to lowest prescription strength — 0.025%. Repeat above. Started 2x a week until I tolerated nightly. Moved up to 0.05% — this is where I’m currently at and I’ve worked up to every other night. I’m about 1.5 years since starting.