Neck fans, portable devices worn around the neck to blow air on the face and upper body, create a sensation of cooling but don’t actually lower body temperature. According to a 2024 study from the University of Sydney, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, neck fans increase airflow, which enhances evaporative cooling on the skin, making users feel cooler. However, the study found no significant reduction in core body temperature or heart rate during heat exposure compared to not using a fan. The cooling effect is largely perceptual, driven by the breeze stimulating skin receptors, which can provide comfort but doesn’t mitigate heat stress effectively in extreme conditions (e.g., 104°F with 40% humidity). Experts recommend combining neck fans with hydration and shade for better heat relief, as fans alone don’t address internal heat buildup. Posts on X echo this, with users praising the comfort of neck fans but noting they’re less effective in high humidity or during intense physical activity.
