This is an example of a photo I do. However, someone else did the skin, because my skin was very blotchy looking. I know there are quite a few ways of doing it...how would you do it?

There are several ways to achieve this, however each photo may be tackled slightly differently, but you might find this small tutorial helpful.

http://graphic-design.com/Photoshop/glamour.html

In your example, the one on right does not seem to appear realistic, but rather "doll" like, i think a bit of colour correction would help to make it look a bit more human like, the colours seem a little too bright to me.

With a little practise i am sure you can acheive the look you require. PLease feel free to post any updates.

I know...the doll look it what I am going for, perfect, flawless skin, even if it is not acheivable!

Thanks!

:)

Try reading Katrin Eismann's book Photoshop Restoration & Retouching, which has excellent sections on this subject. Many here at RP consider it the "bible" for retouch work.