How to Delete Instagram Account Permanently
Whether you’re stepping away from social media for mental health, privacy, or just a digital detox, deleting your Instagram account is a big but empowering move.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to permanently delete your Instagram account, what happens afterward, and what to do before pulling the plug.
Read Also : How To Delete Snapchat Account Permanently?
❓ Delete or Deactivate — What’s the Difference?
Before you go ahead, decide what you really want:
| Action | What Happens | Can You Reverse It? |
|---|---|---|
| Deactivate | Your profile is hidden temporarily; no one can see it | ✅ Yes, just log in again |
| Delete | Your profile, photos, comments, likes, followers = gone | ❌ No, it’s permanent |
✅ How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram Account
🔗 Use This Direct Link (Easiest Method)
Instagram doesn’t offer a delete option in the app. You have to visit a special page:
👉 https://www.instagram.com/accounts/remove/request/permanent/
📱 Steps to Delete Your Instagram Account:
- Visit the deletion page (link above) in your browser (mobile or desktop).
- Log in to the account you want to delete.
- Select a reason from the dropdown (you must choose one to proceed).
- Re-enter your password to confirm.
- Click “Delete [your username]”.
Your profile is now scheduled for deletion.
🕒 Instagram will deactivate your account immediately but fully delete it in 30 days. During that time, if you change your mind, just log in to cancel the process.
🧠 What to Do Before Deleting Your Account
Make sure to:
- ✅ Download your data (photos, videos, messages)
- ✅ Inform followers or contacts (if needed)
- ✅ Log out on all devices
- ✅ Disconnect third-party apps (Spotify, dating apps, etc.)
📥 How to Download Your Instagram Data:
- Open Instagram on a browser
- Go to Settings > Privacy and Security
- Scroll to “Data Download” and click “Request Download”
- Enter your email and confirm
You’ll receive a link within 48 hours to download your complete archive.
🚫 Don’t Want to Go Fully Offline? Temporarily Disable Instead
To take a break instead of deleting forever:
- Log into Instagram via browser
- Go to your profile > Edit Profile
- Scroll down and click “Temporarily disable my account”
- Choose a reason and confirm
Your profile will be hidden until you log in again.
🧹 Bonus: Clean Up Your Digital Trail
If deleting Instagram is part of your digital detox or privacy cleanup, consider also removing browsing history and other online footprints.
➡️ Use any tool to delete internet history online from all major browsers and devices — so your online presence is clean across the board.
✅ Final Thoughts
Deleting Instagram can feel like a big step, but for many, it’s the right one. Whether you’re making space for real-life connections, improving mental health, or protecting your privacy — you’re in control.