I've worked in a welding shop (as an engineer). I've seen guys who run heavy arc welding equipment all day long. At the end of the day uncovered skin was sunburned. Sunburn is caused by Ultra Violet radiation. Welding glasses are as dark as they are because exposure to not only the bright light from the arc but to the UV rays causes "Arc-Eye". An inflammation that can feel like you have sand in your eye(s). Damage is not usually permanent when exposed in short blasts, but the amount of time you need to make a single welded joint will cause serious damage to your eyes. I've seen plenty of welders experience accidental exposure and the problems associated with it. Imagine someone deliberately exposing themselves to it. Now, I weld too. You need to be able to see the weld puddle and be able to manipulate it in order to make a reliable joint. If you're blinded by the light all you may end up doing is creating a slag run that will hold things together for a few minutes. But as soon as you put any load on it - it breaks apart. Get a cheap "Chicago Electric" mask. They don't last long but since you're trying to save a buck, if you're welding is only going to be just a few joints and never use the machine again, cheap will suffice. But if you're going to be doing a lot of welding then get a good mask. Hope this helps.