A football helmet and his dark armor can tank most hits.
If you have a problem kiting, just use touch stones or life giving amulets.
The problem with the football helmet is if I'm in the caves or ruins I can't use it. But I agree with you in using a Night Armour.
Touchstones a non-renewable and Live Giving Amulets are... worthless, unless you use a mod which allows you to wear one besides armor.
Live Giving Amulets are... worthless
They're useful with Maxwell. They provide health regen after using the book and you can switch them out for the night armror when close to death. I suggest you start learning how to use them, since walking around with 45 health is not a great idea.
Is there a mod that allows the meat effigy to have the appearance of your non-mod character?
I don't know, but I wish I had it if there is one.