How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account in 2025
A complete step-by-step guide to permanently delete your Instagram account through the Accounts Center. Remove all your photos, videos, followers and data safely.
Before you begin
- Time required: Approximately 5 minutes
- Data loss: All photos, videos, likes, comments and follower data will be permanently removed
- Grace period: 30 days to change your mind and reactivate
- Backup option: Download your data before deleting
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Open the Instagram app on your phone and tap the More menu (☰) in the bottom right corner. Then tap Settings and privacy from the menu that appears.
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Scroll down and select Accounts Center at the top of the Settings menu, then choose Personal details from the list of options.
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In the Accounts Center, tap Account ownership and control, then tap Deactivation or deletion. Select your Instagram account from the list.
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Choose Delete account (not deactivate), then tap Continue. You'll need to enter your password and follow the final confirmation prompts to permanently delete your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I temporarily deactivate my Instagram instead of deleting it?
Yes, you can temporarily deactivate your account instead. When you choose the deactivation option, your profile, photos, comments and likes will be hidden until you reactivate it by logging back in. This is a good option if you're not sure about permanently deleting your account or just need a break from Instagram.
What happens to my photos and videos after deletion?
All your content including photos, videos, stories, reels, comments, likes, and followers will be permanently removed after the 30-day grace period. This includes any content you've shared in direct messages. Once deleted, this data cannot be recovered, so make sure to download anything important before proceeding.
Can I download my Instagram data before deleting?
Yes, Instagram allows you to download a copy of your data before deletion. Go to Settings > Security > Download data and request a download. Instagram will prepare a file containing your photos, videos, messages, profile information, and comments, then email you a download link. This process can take up to 48 hours.
How long does Instagram keep my data after deletion?
Instagram provides a 30-day grace period after you request deletion. During this time, your account is deactivated but not permanently deleted. If you log back in within 30 days, you can cancel the deletion request. After 30 days, your account and all associated data are permanently removed from Instagram's servers.
Can I use the same username or email again after deletion?
After permanent deletion, your username becomes available for others to use, so you might not be able to get it back. You can use the same email address to create a new Instagram account, but it will be completely separate from your deleted account with no connection to your previous followers, photos, or data.
What happens to my Facebook account if I delete Instagram?
If your Instagram and Facebook accounts are linked through the Accounts Center, deleting your Instagram account won't affect your Facebook account. They remain separate entities. However, any Instagram content you've shared to Facebook will no longer be accessible once your Instagram account is deleted.
Will deleting Instagram delete my WhatsApp or Threads account?
No, deleting your Instagram account will not delete your WhatsApp account as they operate independently. However, if you have a Threads account, it is directly tied to your Instagram account. Deleting Instagram will also delete your Threads profile and all associated content.