The fast measurement of furrows or wrinkles requires the use of a non-contact device. We have chosen a laser detector based on a triangulation principle, using position-sensitive detectors. This apparatus has a sensitivity of about 2-3 microns for a vertical range > 1 mm; this vertical range can reach 8 mm. There is no contact between the detector and the surface and this reduces the measurement time because, while data are being transmitted, there is no decrease in the scanning speed as with earlier methods. We describe the device and its technical characteristics. The limits of use are shown in the measurement of low-amplitude defects (> 3-4 microns) and of wide defects of < or = 8 mm. Examples of software possibilities and practical applications related to skin microrelief, wrinkles and pathological cases, are also described.