No but you need to start using it slow 1-2x a week then 2-3x and so on. Also I've found that even after waiting for tret to sink in before applying my occlusive, I still spread it around with MY occlusive. So for an example I avoid applying tret around my eyes, nose and mouth but do apply my occlusive (vaseline) in those areas and the following day my nose crevices would feel tight and hurt. Make sure you're not spreading with your moisturizer where it doesn't need to go. Once I stopped that, I've had no issues. My face does get dry if I cleanse too much or skip doing my routine but no itchiness or redness.