For some this is great progress, for others it is a creepy sight reminiscent of… Frankenstein. That’s because scientists in Japan have found a way to attach real, lifelike skin to “robotic faces,” giving them—theoretically—more realistic smiles and other facial expressions.

The breakthrough came from copying tissue structures from humans, according to the University of Tokyo team. The team used a special collagen gel for adhesion, but because it is naturally viscous, it was difficult to force through the tiny holes. Using a simple technique for adhering plastics called plasma treatment, they were able to direct the collagen into the fine structures of the holes.

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The artificial skin was made in a lab with scientists using living cells.

In fact, artificial leather is not only as soft as real leather, but it can be repaired (healed?) alone if it is cut reports the BBC.

Although the original is admittedly not yet visible completely humanthe team believes paves the way for convincingly realistic, animated humanoids with self-healing skin.”

“The natural flexibility of the skin and the strong adhesion method ensure that the artificial skin can be moved without tearing or peeling,” emphasizes a member of the research team.