Home > Diet & Fitness > Exercise > Health beyond gravity GA_googleFillSlot("sitagitarectanletop"); Women tend to neglect the bust for two reasons: They don't know what to do, and they're too shy to ask. Here is a little something about something else that concerns all women at some point in their lives.

Sagging certainly isn't pretty - but it may take more than a gel or lotion to prevent. The sad truth is, it's all about gravity. Skin everywhere slackens over time, but the "natural bra" area - from the chin to the nipples " is uniquely stressed because it must also carry the weight of the bust - hence the need for extra care and attention. Breasts, which are made up of a layer of adipose tissue (fat) over muscle, will droop in time because they're pendulous and naturally pull downward. (Some women are genetically predisposed to sagging than others; going bra-less and having children, unfortunately, won't help anyone).

New breast-treatment products using ingredients like sage (for toning), ginseng (for firming), and coneflower (for revitalising) are available in an attempt to circumvent the inevitable downward shift. Bust-treatment products aren't that different from regular moisturisers. They contain ingredients that plump the skin, making it look better. But sagging isn't the result of dry skin and so the effect of these treatments is only temporary.

No beauty treatment can permanently turn the clock back. But combine a firming cream with a few toning exercises, and time may turn out to be on your side. Toning the pectorals and the anterior deltoids at the front of the shoulder creates the illusion of a firmer bustline. It won't make your breasts bigger, but you will get a bit of a lift. (The muscles on the chest will get stronger with exercise, but because of their location under fat, they, and therefore the breasts, won't appear larger). Women must work on their top half as much as their lower: Every woman can achieve tone with a little effort.

But firming agents are better only if health also figures in the equation. So regular breast exams, mammograms and visits to the doctor are essential. So, try fighting some forces of gravity.