Purchased an otc retinol face lotion and used it per directions for 1st time last night. cheeks feel and look a bit warm and pink today. normal? how long does this side effect last and does it usually diminish with continued use?

Not unusual.: Your reaction to could be early signs of sensitivity. I would expect your symptoms to fade away as the day progresses. You could consider reducing the strength of the lotion by adding a general face lotion to the retinol. It is not unusual to have your reaction when you first use retinol. Follow up with your primary care physician.