+1 on goggles.
I never did at first, then once I had a really tight solder spot so I used my helping hands with a magnifying glass. Got in really close, did the needful and then noticed little specks on the glass. Wasn't sure what it was at first but then a little later I saw the flux core jumping and splatting all over. I checked my glasses and I had little specks all over them. I'm lucky none made it around and in my eye. Now I wear goggles all the time. (Well, OK... only if I'm getting in really close.)