"Vader has been established, as per canon, to have been Vader pre-mask. Therefore, Vader minus the mask is acceptable."

A logical person would think it was that simple :) Emperor says "Vader Rise", therefore, he's vader pre suit!

"Not only that, but Vader is both incredibly hot with or without the mask."

Amen!

"Hence, I cannot see why people are complaining. More hot people to costume as. Please, bring on the hotness, please. There isn't enough in the world."

I think people fear that some will do that costume but not be hot in it due to other issues (not having Hayden's likeness)