Reaction to OTC Retinol

About 7 weeks ago I started using a strong OTC retinol.  I used it every other night for about 5 weeks and stopped because I began to notice that I was developing some shallow lines on my cheeks.  These lines are not the normal top of the cheek/under the eye lines.  Most of them are close to my nose and some on the apples of my cheeks.  I know this sounds strange, but if I look at them closely in the mirror it looks like these little lines are links between my pores, kind of like connect the dots.  They vary in length from about 2 mm to 1/2 inch.  Some are straight and some are curved.  I am so afraid that I have permanently damaged my skin.  I have not used the retinol for 2 weeks and have been moisturizing like crazy, but the lines are still there.  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.