Its probably more about the angles, lighting, and timing. I was never good at taking selfies but I've had friends photograph me in the moment of things i like, such as paddling or fishing, and they hit much different.

More pixels = more detailed ugly

it's the lack of moisturizer

The problem might be the photographer. Hand that fancy camera to a friend. The results may still show your ug, but they'll look more natural.

Heavy emotional damage.

I hear some new phones come with a beauty filter with the stock camera app so we can lie to ourselves in HD at least.