What is the largest organ of the human body? It's the skin! Our skin is sensitive to many external factors. Some of these are dirt, cold weather and ultraviolet radiation. They all have adverse effects on both the skin and hair. But since the skin produces several million new cells per day, proper maintenance and care can prevent most problems. Facial masks, sunscreen lotions, toners, and hair rinses can help greatly with the protection and preservation of your skin and hair's beauty and health.

Facial masks are both stimulating and relaxing. As you might guess, stimulating masks will stimulate your skin by promoting blood flow to smooth and firm the skin, while relaxing masks moisturize and refresh the complexion.

Before using a mask, make sure that your skin is clean by first using a natural facial toner with lemon balm or witch hazel. A strawberry mask will help to stimulate the skin and since it contains vitamin C, it will give the skin a fresh, perky look. You can make this mask by using 5 very ripe medium strawberries, 2 tsp. of heavy cream and 1 tsp. of honey. Mash the berries to a pulpy consistency, and add the cream and honey. Mix well. Apply to your face and leave on for about 30 minutes. You will feel stimulated and wonderful!

A honey-wheat mask will relax and renew the skin. Make this mask by using 1 quart of water, 3 tablespoons of fresh rose petals, ½ cup of orange zest, 2 tsp. honey, 3 tablespoons both of milk and rosewater, and ¼ cup of whole-wheat flour. Boil the water, and then take it off of the heat. Add the orange zest and rose petals and cover. Steep the brew until cool. Then in another saucepan heat the milk, rosewater and honey until just warm. Add the flour and stir to make a paste. Apply the mask and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Wash it off with the cooled orange-rose petal water. Dry your face and then smooth on your moisturizing cream. You'll love what it does for your skin.

Sunscreen lotion will help your skin to keep its moisture and also its natural oils. These essential ingredients can be lost due to the environment. Wind, cold and most importantly exposure to the sun can damage your skin. It is necessary to protect it against UVA and UVB rays which will age the skin and also might cause skin cancer. Use suntan lotions with a high SPF sunscreen such as 45 that contains titanium dioxide. After your exposure to the sun, moisturize your skin with a thin coat of yogurt.

Toners are really good for dry and sensitive skin. After you cleanse your skin, use a toner to moisten your face and follow up with a moisturizer. It is best if you use your toner several times a day. Once in the morning and then once at night after cleansing would be ideal. Remember to always use a moisturizing cream afterwards. You can make a natural toner by using rose water. Take ½ cup of rose water, ¼ cup of orange-blossom water, 4 drops of everlasting oil and 8 drops of lavender essential oil. Using a dark glass bottle, pour these ingredients into it and shake. Before each use, shake the bottle. Store your rose toner in the refrigerator to help extend its shelf life and freshness.

Natural hair rinses can help the scalp and hair that is damaged from pollution, heat, indoor dry air, sun and permanents. They can actually strengthen the damaged hair by acting directly on the scalp, giving the hair a new, fresh appearance. Make a chamomile rinse to help heal the scalp and lighten blond hair. It also gives your hair a silky sheen. Just pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of chamomile flowers and steep until it cools. Then strain the flowers and it's ready to use.

Take the time to make these enriching toners, masks and rinses at home, or visit your local skin care shop to find these natural skin and hair care products. If used every day, these natural products can help you to keep your youthful looking skin and hair for years to come.