Heavy skin softening is not a requirement for becoming a better or more professional portrait photographer. It’s mainly a stylistic choice that’s especially common in fashion, lifestyle, and glamour work because it quickly hides blemishes, wrinkles, and uneven skin.

The downside is exactly what you noticed: if overdone, skin can look dull, flat, and unnatural. Many photographers prefer a lighter touch that keeps texture while only reducing temporary blemishes.

A lot can also be handled before retouching with good lighting direction and soft, flattering light. In post, careful blemish removal usually looks more natural than global softening, but it takes more time and skill.

In paid work, the biggest factor is often client preference. Some clients want a natural look; others want a highly polished, even painterly result. It helps to discuss your retouching style in advance so expectations are clear.

So no, heavy softening is not necessary. If you dislike that look, focus on strong lighting, selective retouching, and preserving skin texture unless the client specifically wants a more glamorized finish.