FARGO — Every year, as the weather gets colder, most of us start to get annoyed by our dry, cracked and irritated skin. It’s not the cold that dries the skin. However, when it is cold outside, the humidity levels inside our homes become dry. If the dew point of the outdoor air is around 10 degrees or lower, which is typical in winter, and we heat that air to 70 degrees indoors, it becomes extremely dry with a relative humidity below 10%.

A few quick changes to the daily routine can make a difference. Shortening the time and lowering the temperature of your shower will prevent the loss of natural oils from the skin. Frequent hydration will protect damaged skin and make it softer and smoother. Using a humidifier inside your home will help maintain humidity in the air. And of course, drink plenty of water.

John Wheeler is chief meteorologist for WDAY, a position he has held since May 1985. Wheeler grew up in the South, in Louisiana and Alabama, and cites his family’s move to the Midwest as being important in developing his fascination with weather and climate. Wheeler lived in Wisconsin and Iowa when he was a teenager. He attended Iowa State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in meteorology in 1984. Wheeler worked about a year at WOI-TV in central Iowa before moving to Fargo and WDAY.