In this paper, we propose a method for facial feature extraction and recognition algorithm using neural networks. First we extract a face part from the background image based on the knowledge that it is located in the center of an input image and that the background is homogeneous. Then using vertical and horizontal projections. We extract features from the separated face image using knowledge base of human faces. In the recognition step we use the back propagation algorithm of the neural networks and in the learning step to reduce the computation time we vary learning and momentum rates. Our technique recognizes 6 women and 14 men correctly.