EVERY painting is a marvelous, frustrating puzzle. Otherwise, why in the world would we do this?!
When you would you like a critique on a painting, you can post in the critiques section, where it will get the attention you want.
I think your photo is great,you don't look a day over 40, and even if you did, you could FIX that in your self portrait
Welcome to the Forum.
Forever young (at least in my paintings),