Lightroom is great for batch processing and cataloging images but leaves a lot to be desired for heavy post processing. Being a photog myself, I use Lightroom to initially to start my workflow, adding things like copyright, contact info and weeding out the no-gos. Right now I am using CS3 for more precise post work including layering. Don't try to "over process" an image. Your first image could make it.......even with the odd skin tone....because of the close crop. The last most definately has "ichy" skin tones so be careful with that. Do you have access to either Elements or CS? If not, when I get my office completed, you can try out CS3.....I guarantee you will love what you can do.

Harold