Rarely do chemical peels result in serious complications, but certain risks exist. With light and medium peels, mild side effects such as redness, stinging and crusting usually subside within a day or two after treatment. Side effects associated with deep chemical peels are typically more pronounced, and recovery time is longer. More serious side effects are possible: scarring, infection, swelling, changes in skin tone, and cold sore outbreaks. However, serious side effects are rare when the procedure is performed by a qualified doctor, and you can greatly reduce the risks associated with facial peels by providing your doctor with a complete medical history at your initial consultation, and by following all your aftercare instructions.