THIS month, travel health expert HELEN JOHNSON covers fear of flying, sea sickness and 'one-application-only' sun cream, P20.

Q: I heard some people say that the P20 sun cream was to be used once only. Is this right?

A: The best thing to do, is fully read the manufacturer's instructions on the packet because it is unlike any other sun creams you may have used.

Firstly, P20 is a once a day application. There are important directions to consider before using it.

Apply generously 90 minutes before you sunbathe, swim or go out into the sun.

Do not use any other moisturisers or skin lotions before applying P20 - this stops P20 binding to your skin.

Apply evenly paying particular attention to sensitive areas such as the face, ears, nose, shoulders, front of legs and feet.

Don't apply P20 to already burnt skin or close to the eyes.

If using P20 for the first time, re-apply again, all over after 10 minutes to ensure your skin is adequately covered.

To avoid staining your clothes, wait until the cream has dried completely before dressing.

Q: I am going on a cruise and am concerned about sea sickness. Are there tips to avoid this condition?

A: The symptoms of sea sickness or motion sickness affect many people especially children and women.

To prevent it, try out these handy tips: Lie horizontally, keep your head fixed with eyes on the horizon, avoid reading while travelling. Try some method of distraction (games, toys, music etc.) and avoid a stuffy, smoky room.

Staying away from the smell of food sometimes helps or you could try relaxation techniques such as breathing slowly and deeply.

There are anti sea sickness tablets available. Some can be bought over the counter where you pharmacist could advise you or if your problem is very severe, consult your doctor.

Q: I am having my first holiday abroad and although I have flown on domestic flights - the thought of being on an aeroplane for four and a half hours is making me very anxious. I just do not like flying. How can I overcome this fear?

A: Fear of flying is very real, and it is thought that in the UK about nine million people are afraid of flying.

This fear may come from a previous bad experience, a rough flight due to turbulent weather, or following news of hijackings or an air disaster.

In preparation for your flight you should arrive at the airport in good time. Be sure to have all your documents in an easy accessible place.

Take time in the airport once you've checked in. This will allow you to relax and be reassured it is much safer than travelling by road or by rail.

Once on the aircraft and when you are in your seat, try to relax. Do some relaxation exercises allowing your shoulders to drop, place your hands on your lap and breath in and out slowly and deeply.

You may find that chatting to the person next to you is a good distraction or a newspaper, book, magazine.

Often too, a word with the cabin crew can be reassuring especially when strange sounds from the aircraft may cause you to feel anxious.

You could try out a fear of flying course. Avia Tours provides courses at Heathrow, Glasgow/Edinburgh and Birmingham. Log on to www.aviatours.co.uk for more information.

Freedom to Fly courses are another helpful means of relieving your fear. Log on to www.free2fly.dial.pipex.com.

And finally, if you are going abroad to sunnier skies, remember to cover up well and follow the rules of safe sun advice.