When it comes to skincare-meets-makeup, no one does it quite like Korea – and one brand is redefining what “skin-first beauty” truly means. Meet PARNELL, the innovative skincare and makeup label behind the viral Cicamanu Serum Cushion, crowned Korea’s No.1 cushion foundation..

But before we dive into the secret behind this cult favourite, let’s take a closer look at the story – and science – that makes PARNELL so special.

PARNELL: Where Nature Meets Next-Generation Skincare

Founded in Seoul in 2019, PARNELL was born from a simple but powerful idea: to create skincare that truly supports sensitive skin without compromise. Frustrated by harsh ingredients and temporary fixes, PARNELL’s founder set out to craft products that are both gentle and high-performing, combining natural ingredients with cutting-edge skin science.

At the heart of the brand lies a belief that effective skincare starts with care — from responsibly sourcing ingredients like New Zealand Manuka Honey, to using FSC-certified paper, soy ink, and recycled packaging.

Their motto says it best: “Where Nature Meets Next-Generation Skincare.”

Every PARNELL formula undergoes over 200 clinical evaluations and 87 rounds of in-house reviews before it reaches your shelf – so when they say “skin-compatible,” they mean it!

The Story of CICAMANU™: The Heart of PARNELL

Behind PARNELL’s bestselling cushion foundation – and many of its other products besides – is a powerful signature complex: CICAMANU™, a blend that perfectly encapsulates the brand’s philosophy of soothing science and natural care.

The story begins with PARNELL’s founder, who struggled with chronic skin sensitivity for years. During a stay in New Zealand, he discovered the remarkable healing powers of Manuka Honey, which is rich in antibacterial and antioxidant properties and aids the skin in retaining moisture, promotes a healthy glow, and soothes inflammation. Finding this helped to calm and restore his irritation-prone skin, he was inspired, and combined this natural wonder with Korea’s beloved Centella Asiatica (Cica) – an ancient medicinal herb famed for its soothing and regenerative properties, that works to heal wounds, calm inflammation, and keep the skin barrier strong. 

The result was CICAMANU™ – a unique biome-balancing, barrier-strengthening fusion of Cica and Manuka Honey that not only soothes redness and irritation but also supports long-term skin resilience.

PARNELL’s Star Product: The Cicamanu Serum Cushion

If you’ve ever dreamed of foundation that feels like skincare, it’s time to meet your new must-have: PARNELL’s Cicamanu Serum Cushion 

Crowned the No.1 cushion foundation in Korea, this innovative hybrid product brings together the coverage of a foundation and the nourishment of a serum, delivering glowing, calm, and hydrated skin in seconds.

At its core is 37% CICAMANU Biome™, PARNELL’s patented complex that combines:

• Centella Asiatica to soothe irritation and strengthen the skin barrier

• Manuka Leaf Extract and Honey Extract to hydrate and nourish

• Lactobacillus Ferment to balance the skin microbiome

• Ceramide NP and Phytosphingosine to lock in moisture and protect against environmental stress
  
  

The result? Skin that looks smoother, feels calmer, and glows naturally — even if you’re prone to dryness, redness, or sensitivity.

As for the finish,PARNELL’s Cicamanu Serum Cushion offers a moist, featherlight texture with buildable coverage that evens out skin tone while letting your natural radiance shine through. It blurs imperfections and redness without caking, leaving a luminous “glass-skin” finish that lasts all day.

Designed with sensitive skin in mind, it’s free from alcohol, parabens, PEGs, and other common irritants, and comes with an antibacterial Rubicell puff for a hygienic, gentle application. Plus, it’s available in 20 inclusive shades, so everyone can enjoy that signature K-beauty glow.

How to Use the Cicamanu Serum Cushion

Whether you’re a K-beauty beginner or a cushion compact pro, mastering your technique can make all the difference. Here’s how to get that effortlessly radiant finish:

1. Prep Your Skin

Cushion foundations love hydrated skin. Start with your usual skincare –  toner, serum, and moisturiser – to create a smooth, dewy canvas. 

2. Pat, Don’t Swipe

Use the puff to gently tap (not drag!) the product onto your face. The patting motion helps the formula adhere evenly while keeping the finish fresh and non-cakey.

3. Build Gradually

Start with a light layer and build coverage where you need it – around the nose, chin, or redness-prone areas. Thanks to its serum-rich formula, it layers beautifully without ever feeling heavy.

4. Touch Up Like a Pro

Cushions are made for on-the-go touch-ups. Use the puff (not your fingers!) to reapply as needed throughout the day. If you notice less product on the sponge, flip the inner cushion with clean tweezers – it’s like getting a fresh refill!

5. Refresh Anytime

Unlike traditional foundations, the Cicamanu Serum Cushion is skincare-infused – meaning you can reapply it midday to refresh and hydrate your skin without caking. Perfect for dry seasons or long workdays in air-conditioned spaces!

Why we love it

PARNELL’s Cicamanu Serum Cushion isn’t just makeup – it’s a daily dose of skin therapy. Designed with sensitive skin in mind and infused with the brand’s iconic CICAMANU™ complex, it’s a cushion that perfects and protects, delivering that signature K-beauty glow while caring for your skin from within.

Whether you’re new to K-beauty or searching for a foundation that truly loves your skin back, this cushion is a must-try. If you’re ready to experience skin-first makeup, find your perfect PARNELL Cicamanu Serum Cushion shade here, or explore the whole collection here – only at Skin Cupid!