The present document describes a method of reducing a microbial presence on at least one part of a subject by topically applying to the subject's part an antimicrobial formulation comprising: a) at least one antimicrobial isolated or synthetic phenolic compound of natural origin, selected from the group consisting of thymol and carvacrol； b) at least one surfactant sufficient to form a solution or dispersion of said phenolic compound in an aqueous carrier； c) a solvent for dissolving said phenolic compound； and d) a sufficient aqueous carrier quantity to make 100% (w/w).
