The research was presented at the Society for General Microbiology's Spring Conference in Dublin.
The effects of thyme, marigold, and myrrh tinctures were tested by the researchers at Leeds Metropolitan University.
The thyme tincture was found to work the best out of the three when it came to treating white heads to more serious cysts.
Thyme also was found to have a greater antibacterial effect than benzyl peroxide which is used in more acne treatment creams.
Researchers say this more gentle treatment of thyme steeped in alcohol could benefit people with sensitive skin.
Doctors hope that further clinical testing could lead to a more effective acne treatment.
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