Can you help a sunburn to heal faster? To some extent yes. Here are some tricks.

• Start taking your NSAID of choice (like ibuprofen) right away - the anti-inflammatory effect will limit the discomfort and the redness.
• Ice it if it feels hot!
• You must cover it up - sunscreens are not adequate in this situation.
• Use over-the-counter hydrocortisone on it 3-4 times a day for 3 days - also an anti-inflammatory.
• If you have Biafine (prescription cream anti-inflammatory), use that too.
• After the first 3 days, just protect it from all sun (clothing again) and lube with a lot of moisturizer.