Does Retinol still work even with irritation present? (Photo)

It sounds like you’re having a “retinoid reaction”.  Clinically it takes about 3 weeks for skin cells to adapt and build a tolerance to the use of a retinol. If you feel that your skin is reacting far too much, cut back the use of the retinol to twice a week for several weeks and add in an extra day if you feel your skin can tolerate it. Ensure you are using a good quality moisturiser to keep skin hydrated and an SPF in the day to protect the skin from the sun, as retinols increase sun sensitivity. If your symptoms persist, go back to your skin professional and have your skin re-assessed for a lower dosage retinol and re-introduce slowly. 

What I would recommend is this: after you apply Retinol at night on dry skin, immediately apply a good, thick moisturizer right on top of it. When people do this, it helps calm the skin much more and much quicker. Don't wait for the redness and then apply Aquaphor. Apply something right on top of the Retinol. Additionally, you don't need to apply it every 2-3 days. Start with once a week. Then add in a second day a few weeks after that. You don't need to soldier on at this rate; you can get great results by cutting back on use, and then building up to more days per week. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."