(HealthDay News) -- Hands can become so dry and chapped -- especially during winter -- that they can become very painful.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine offers these suggestions to help prevent chapped hands:

• Keep them covered, avoiding exposure to sun, cold or wind.
• Don't wash your hands with water that's too hot.
• Wash your hands when necessary to prevent the spread of germs, but don't overdo it.
• Use a humidifier at home.
• Stay away from harsh soaps.
• Moisturize your hands frequently.