- Medically Reviewed by: Mr Mfazo Hove, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: August 12, 2026
- Last Updated: August 12, 2026
TL;DR: Mr Mfazo Hove, consultant ophthalmic surgeon and founder of Blue Fin Vision®, spoke exclusively to Tyla ahead of the partial solar eclipse on 12 August 2026. He warns that ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, offer no protection when looking at the Sun, and explains why the UK’s partial eclipse never becomes safe to view unaided.
Why Sunglasses Are Not Enough
Mr Hove told Tyla that eclipse glasses are not simply darker sunglasses but are specially made to block the extremely intense light the Sun produces. Ordinary sunglasses are designed for everyday glare and let far too much light through. Wearing two pairs does not help, and nor do homemade alternatives such as smoked glass, camera film or tinted plastic.
Because the UK sees only a partial eclipse, part of the Sun stays visible throughout. As Mr Hove puts it, the Sun does not become safe to look at just because most of it is covered, and even a very thin crescent is bright enough to cause damage.
Safe Viewing and Solar Retinopathy
For direct viewing, Mr Hove advises genuine eclipse glasses meeting the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard from a reputable supplier, checked for scratches, tears and punctures, put on before looking up and removed only after turning away. Indirect methods such as a pinhole projector, a colander or an official livestream avoid the risk entirely.
He also explains solar retinopathy, damage to the light-sensitive retina at the back of the eye. It is usually painless, because the retina has no pain receptors, and it can leave blurred vision, a dark central patch or distorted lines. Some people recover over weeks or months, but there is no proven treatment to reverse established damage, which is why prevention matters.
Advice for Parents
Mr Hove urges close supervision rather than simply handing children a pair of glasses, since children are tempted to peek over the top. Where a child is too young to follow instructions, he recommends a pinhole projector or a livestream instead.
Read the Full Coverage
Tyla: Millions believe ‘common myth’ that could cause serious eye issue during rare solar eclipse this week, published 11 August 2026.
Concerned About Your Vision After the Eclipse?
If you notice blurred or distorted vision, a dark patch or any change in your sight, seek urgent advice from an optometrist, ophthalmologist or eye-casualty service, and use NHS 111 if you are unsure where to go. For non-urgent concerns, the Blue Fin Vision® team invites you to book a consultation at our consultant-led clinics across London, Hertfordshire and Essex.
