![The Intricate Hair and Makeup Artistry Behind Deep Space Nine’s Haneek 2 l intro 1715907477](https://i0.wp.com/theubj.com/uae/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/l-intro-1715907477.jpg?w=1170)
Creating the appearance of Haneek, a Skrreean character on “Star Trek,” required an exceptional combination of hair and makeup expertise. The comprehensive process, crafted by “Star Trek” veteran makeup artist Michael Westmore, demanded early mornings and lengthy preparation for actress Deborah May.
May’s transformation into Haneek involved the meticulous application of a thin film, adorned with a rough texture akin to sand, glued to her face. It was constructed to appear as if the Skrreean skin was continuously flaking, a detail highlighted when May echoed the potential for bits of the ‘sand’ to be removed. Adding to the complexity, her hairdo integrated three distinct wig sections.
“My mornings started quite early, often spending over two hours in makeup. The combination of three wigs alongside layers of latex, gravel, and potentially cardboard granted Haneek that distinctive peeling look. Shedding the makeup at day’s end was equally involved. A 15-minute shower was necessary to amass a ‘bubble’ under the makeup before you could peel it gradually from forehead to chin. It was certainly a challenge for anyone prone to claustrophobia,” May recalled.
Within the “Deep Space Nine” series, such elaborate makeup was not unusual. It was commonplace for series staples, including Quark (Armin Shimerman), Odo (René Auberjonois), Ferengi, Cardassians, Klingons, Founders, and Jem-Hadar characters to also don full-face prosthetics and elaborate disguises. Westmore achieved new heights in his makeup artistry each week.
May’s liaison with “Star Trek” continued beyond Deep Space Nine, re-emerging in an episode of “Voyager” titled “Favorite Son,” where she portrayed Lyris, a Taresian convincing Ensign Kim (Garrett Wang) of his alien heritage. The “Star Trek” franchise has consistently maintained a supportive environment for its guest and supporting actors—even though their makeup and hair requirements might be quite strenuous.
FAQs about Deep Space Nine’s Haneek Makeup and Hair
- Who was responsible for the Skrreean makeup on Haneek?
Michael Westmore, the renowned “Star Trek” makeup artist, designed the Skrreean makeup. - How long did it take to apply Haneek’s makeup?
Deborah May spent over two hours each morning in makeup to transform into Haneek. - What materials were used to create Haneek’s shedding skin effect?
The makeup team used layers of latex, gravel, and possibly cardboard to create the shedding skin effect for Haneek. - What process was involved in removing the makeup?
Removal required standing under a shower for at least 15 minutes to form a water ‘bubble’ under the makeup, followed by slowly peeling it off. - Did Deborah May appear in other “Star Trek” series besides “Deep Space Nine”?
Yes, she later appeared on “Star Trek: Voyager” in an episode titled “Favorite Son.”
Conclusion
Michael Westmore’s mastery in makeup artistry, paired with Deborah May’s dedication to her character, resulted in the memorable portrayal of Haneek on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” The process behind the Skrreean’s look is a testament to the creativity and painstaking detail that “Star Trek” puts into bringing alien species to life. With extensive preparation times and challenging removal procedures, the art of alien makeup on “Star Trek” remains an underappreciated yet integral part of the show’s storytelling magic and visual splendor.