I'd try going easy on the opacity settings when blending layers. It looks like you are dialing up "clarity" or using a sharpening technique that gives the edges a halo effect. If you want to burn or dodge, try doing it with adjustment layers and masking instead. The burn and dodge tools are good for minor tweaks, as both are destructive. I think toning down saturation levels will help too. Mostly, I think you'll have to play around with all parameters before you'll find the recipe.
