The quest for efficient anti-wrinkle treatments has mainly focused on biochemical approaches aiming to mitigate or slow down the effects of both intrinsic and extrinsic ageing. However, the biophysical principles that govern the formation and evolution of wrinkles remain to be elucidated. Georges Limbert shares the findings of a study his computational biophysics group conducted with US researchers.The prospects and consequences of ageing are of concern to all, especially with regard to wrinkles. Wrinkles are not only a hallmark of ageing, with its various cosmetic and social implications, but also play a fundamental role in how people interact with many products and devices, from moisturisers and make-up, to adhesive plasters, incontinence products, razors and clothing fabrics. Unveiling the underlying biophysical principles that condition the morphologies and patterns of wrinkles are essential in evaluating, and ultimately, predicting, how ageing or aged skin interacts with its environment.