Whether you want a permanent delete or just a temporary break, here's exactly how to do it — on iPhone, Android or desktop — plus what happens to your data.
Deletion is permanent after the grace period — your photos, videos and follower list are gone for good. Save what matters before you start:
Hides your profile and posts. Everything returns the instant you log back in. Best if you just need a break.
Removes your account, content and followers for good after 30 days. Cannot be undone once the grace period ends.
Immediately
Your profile, photos and comments are hidden from everyone on Instagram.
Within 30 days
Log back in to cancel the deletion. After 30 days it becomes permanent and irreversible.
Up to 90 days
Copies stored in Instagram's backup systems are fully removed (not accessible to anyone during this time).
Deactivating temporarily hides your profile, photos and likes — everything comes back the moment you log in again. Deleting permanently removes your account, content and followers after a grace period, and it cannot be undone.
Instagram hides your account immediately, then permanently deletes it after 30 days. If you log in within those 30 days, the deletion is cancelled. Full removal from backup systems can take up to 90 days.
Only within the 30-day grace period — just log back in to cancel the deletion. After 30 days, the account and all its content are gone for good and cannot be recovered.
Yes. Permanent deletion removes all your photos, videos, comments, likes and followers. Download anything you want to keep before you start.
The steps are the same on mobile: open the permanent deletion page in your browser (or go through Settings → Accounts Center → Account ownership and controls), pick a reason, re-enter your password and confirm.
No. For security, Instagram requires you to log in and re-enter your password before deleting or deactivating. If you've lost access, recover your password first.