My friend was raving about it, so last week I bought a serum on their recommendation. I used it last night, but I started feeling a strange burning sensation on my face, and when I woke up this morning, there was redness as well. Did I use it incorrectly or did I have an allergic reaction? It seems to work well for everyone else, but did it just not work for me? What can I do to make this go away? Has anyone else used it?
I once tried a serum containing salicylic acid as well. It caused burning and redness the first time I used it. It turns out my skin was leaning towards being dry; such products are suitable for oily skin types. Try it with a moisturizer, maybe that will help reduce the issue.
Could your friend have a different skin type? What did they suggest to you based on, did they mention something related to your skin? 
@camkenari we actually haven’t talked much about our skin types. I think hers is oily while mine seems to be drier, but I’m not completely sure.
@yanayazik this is misinformation, is salicylic acid only special for oily skin? It’s also used for dry skin, but you need to be careful with the dosage.
If you experience such a reaction upon first use, it could be for two reasons: either you applied the serum directly onto cleansed skin instead of over a moisturizer, which can cause burning, or you have a sensitivity to one of the ingredients. In this case, you may need to stop using the product and purchase a simple soothing cream from the pharmacy.
It’s a very classic situation; what works well for one person may not work for you. Relying on a friend to choose cosmetic products is already a serious risk.
I think it’s trash, not worth ruining your face 
Did you check the ingredient list of the serum? You might have an allergy to a specific substance, which might not just be related to your skin type. It would have been better for you to research and test it before relying on your friend. I think you shouldn’t try it again without consulting a doctor.