Photoshop :: Layer Mask Is Turning Skin Gray?

I have used the same basic skin retouching method for hundreds of pictures. Usually I end up with very nice, natural looking skin.  Today, the same technique is turning the skin gray on any picture I attempt to use it on. I cannot figure out why.  Essentially, I copy the background layer.  I do my spot healing on this layer.

When I'm through, I make 3 more layers.  On the first, I use the Median filter. On the second, I use a high pass filter.  Then on the 3rd, I add I layer mask, painting in black, and go over the skin. It is always gray on the mask.  I then go back and reduce the opacity of the high pass and median layers.  Usually I end up with smoother, but natural skin and it's normal color.  Today, every time I attempt to do this, the skin stays a muted gray.  I cannot figure out why.  what might be different that I'm not noticing?