Retin-A 0.025% cream makes my skin very tight and almost flaky.

Ideally you would apply the Retin-A in the evenings to bare skin. However, if your incredibly dry and flaky, it is ok to buffer it by applying a moisturizer prior. It can take the skin 12-16 weeks to fully adjust to Retin-A so we suggest starting with 3 nights a week and work up from there so that your skin can acclimate. A compromised skin barrier is a very common concern with starting Retin-A or increasing the dosage. Stick with it, the results will be well worth it.