Is my reaction to anti-aging retinol cream normal?

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always read the directions on the package. If things don't feel right then just stop using it. You didn't say your age. I'd say that stuff is for people who are like 65. I noticed you have to use it for a long time (like the ROC I think says use it for 14 days) before you see any results but it also says STAY OUT OF THE SUN. I think it must react badly if mixed with sun. From what I see on tv Retinol appears to make the skin worn off and shiny.

no its not a normal side affect.It could be that particular product, the retinol itself, OR a combination of products you are using. If you try to do too much to your skin you can have an allergic reaction. Try using it alone ONLY AFTER cleansing your face. Use it at night, and put on sunscreen in the morning before you leave your house. Retinol and the sun can irritate your skin. Another think you can do is to return that product and just try another one.

Retinol can cause irritation, and it can be drying. If you still want to try and use it, I would start with fewer applications and in small amounts, and you could dilute it with a heavier moisturizer if you like. It's often one of those things skin can tolerate if you build up exposure rather than dive into with full applications.