Vexel help?, Expert advice needed... Options

[anime-essence]

Original image
First vexel - Amy Winehouse
^This is not a finished product; I'm just starting and need help.

Yes I've read tutorials on this process by searching online, here, on deviantart.com, and vexels.net (cannot post because its closing), however I need the expertise of those who have created a vexel before. Any advice would be appreciated.

So I decided to ask those here who have had an on-hands experience with vectoring/vexeling on the basics.

I created the basic lineart, base layers, some details that need improvement such as the hair, earrings, and neck down.
*I really need help with the layers on the face like techniques that will make her look real (shadow/lighting/etc).

I'm a bit lost at the moment and need advice on how to continue/redo the skin - Am I doing ok ay?Changes? Removal? Sucky!!?
How do I layer to make the skin appear real?

If you are knowledgeable please reply, from one designer to another.

[Gigi]

^ The angle of the picture shouldn't affect the outcome of a vexel. At all. Unless you're a serious noob. If you're successful it looks a lot better.

But yeah, retouching the picture would help a lot. If you're lazy just do a quick smart blur.