The world of vitamins can be a confusing one. A, B2, B3, B12, C, K … if this alphabet has your head swimming, you may need some vitamin guidance. Which ones are essential to staying healthy? What do they do, and where do they come from? Should you buy expensive face creams and supplements for your daily dose of vitamin (insert letter here)?

The truth is, most vitamins are found in whole foods, and suggested daily amounts can be reached with the proper diet. These five vitamins are particularly essential to keeping you looking and feeling young and healthy: