Taking pictures of objects’ microscopic texture would be easier if their surfaces had the same reflective properties all over. Because human skin absorbs light and has the added complication of tiny hairs, it can be tricky to image clearly, but with the new device, called GelSight, pictures like the one above are easy to snap. Essentially, the thin layer of metallic paint provides a consistent surface for light to reflect from.

It’s like coating a person in silver Lycra: suddenly, every curve is clear.