OK, let's start from scratch:
I have deleted my retouching suggestion and the justified objections to avoid confusion. The problems that I found with the original image as is, are beyond a quick retouching remedy. The automated software that I use for minor skin smoothing (etc) is insufficient in that any retouch on this image will need to be done manually which can be a long and tedious process.
Soft focus and post-processing diffusion (softened) are controversial- some love it and some hate it!
So here is the story. I can not tell anyone how to shoot or what style or approach they should use. In traditional portraiture, especially of women, most CLIENTS prefer a flattering skin texture and tone, or at least something that does not emphasize lines, wrinkles, or unwanted textures. On the other hand, a photographer and/or the client can decide on a portrait study that does show or emphasize skin textures and blemishes.
If the photographer wishes to de-emphasize or eliminate various skin blemishes or lines, they can use a soft-focus lens which is specially designed for that purpose, use an optical diffusion filter on the lens, or add some softening in post-production. Complete and expert retouching is yet another approach. However, there are important caveats.
My theory and methods are that anything is done at the camera as to degrees of optical diffusion and more importantly LIGHTING will result in a more authentic and fewer affections image. When you diffuse in post or retouch, you have to prepare the image while shooting to enable good post-processing minipulations.
Adding excessive softening or "face sculpting", after the fact can lead to distortion, These elements are best addressed in lighting, posing and camera angle. A lighting rato with adequate shadow detail is required to facilitate retouching in the shadows so even a low-key portrait shod have some detail in the shadows.
In the original image, as I saw on my screen, was seriously off colour and perhaps as a discrepancy in exposure or lighting, there is a colour crossover so when the extreme Yellow/Red colour was compensated for, the hair went cyan. The texture of the subject's skin seemed very unflattering but beyond that, there were areas that seem "damaged" or "scratched" as if there was an unsuccessful attempt at retouching???. I do not know what caused that.
I have no objection to downcast or closed eyes- if that's the mood of effect that was desired. That algorithm that puts in eyeballs is spookey! At first, I thought it was a result of my increasing shadow detail. That will also ten me to mess with images at 1:00 AM
If the OP wishes to re-shoot my suggestion would be as follows:
Watch your light more. I know it is difficult to go for expression and do precise lighting at the same time but it is possible and involves instant multitasking- it's like playing the accordion or walking and chewing gum athe same time. Wath your light posting on the chin/jawline- consider 2/3 views of the face with short light on some subjects. When eyes are open, make certain the is sufficient light to provide shade detail in the eyes and eye sockets, A distinct catchlight in the 11 or 1 o'clock position in the dark part of the eye is one of the good indicators that your lighting is correct.
Remember, I can't tell anyone HOW to shoot but I can provide some basics so as to produce good undistorted likenesses. Many photogrh have creative and artistic ideas but lack someof the basics which, unfortunate are no thought in books and classes anymore. Once you have the basics down pat, yoy can begin to break the rules more creatively, intentionally and specifically!
Also please remember: When I post an edit of any kind in this section, it is only a suggestion as to what corrections may be necessary. They are not to be considered finished work as I would present it to a client.