Instagram isn’t just a photo-sharing app anymore — it’s a full-fledged digital stage. But along with creativity comes pressure: How many likes did I get?
To make things healthier and more private, Instagram now lets you hide or unhide like counts on your posts, reels, and even on others’ content.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to hide or unhide like counts on Instagram, when and why to use this feature, and the real benefits of hiding likes — especially if you care about mental peace, creativity, and genuine engagement.
1. Hide Likes Before Sharing a Post or Reel
If you want to hide likes right from the beginning, follow these steps:
- Open Instagram and start creating your post or reel.
- Add your media → Tap Next.
- Before sharing, scroll down and tap Advanced settings.
- Turn on Hide like and view counts on this post.
- Go back → Tap Share.
✅ Result: The post or reel will go live without showing any like or view count publicly. Only you can check them privately later.
2. Hide Likes After Sharing a Post or Reel
If you’ve already posted something and now want to hide likes, do this:
- Open your Instagram post or reel.
- Tap the three dots (⋯) in the top right corner.
- Select Hide like count.
✅ Done: Instagram will hide the total number of likes.
To bring them back, repeat the steps and choose Unhide like count.
3. Hide Likes on Other Users’ Posts and Reels
You can also choose to stop seeing like counts on other people’s posts.
Here’s how to do that:
- Go to your profile.
- Tap the three lines (☰) → Settings and privacy.
- Scroll to What you see → Like and share counts.
- Turn on Hide like and view counts.
✅ Now: You’ll browse Instagram without seeing total like numbers. No pressure, no comparison — just content.
4. How to View Your Hidden Likes
Even when you hide like counts, you can still check who liked your posts privately.
- Open your post.
- Tap on “Others” (next to where likes appear).
- You’ll see all users who liked it — only the total number stays hidden publicly.
So, hiding likes doesn’t remove data; it just keeps it private.
5. Why You Should Hide or Unhide Like Counts on Instagram
Hiding likes isn’t about being secretive — it’s about staying sane in a noisy world.
Benefits of Hiding Likes
1. Reduces Pressure and Anxiety
When likes are hidden, you stop judging your worth based on numbers. You focus more on content quality and less on performance anxiety.
2. Encourages Authentic Creativity
You can experiment freely — post what feels real, not what’s “trending.” This helps you stay genuine and creative.
3. Creates Healthier Engagement
Without visible like counts, followers engage more honestly — because they’re not influenced by popularity bias.
4. Keeps Your Insights Private
You can still view your post analytics under Insights, so you never lose control of your performance data.
Why You Might Unhide Likes
- If you’re a creator or business, visible likes can boost social proof and trust.
- Helps when you’re testing engagement or showcasing growth.
- Makes sense for brand collaborations or influencer deals.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, hiding or unhiding likes is a personal choice — there’s no right or wrong.
If you’re feeling mentally drained or find yourself comparing too often, hide them. You’ll instantly feel lighter and more focused on creativity.
If you’re running a business or trying to build trust with new audiences, unhide them to show credibility and engagement power.
The real win here isn’t about numbers — it’s about control.
Instagram gave you the power to choose how you experience social media. Use it wisely.
👉 Hide likes when you need peace. Unhide them when you need proof.
It’s that simple.
Quick Recap
| Action | Steps |
|---|---|
| Hide Likes Before Posting | Advanced settings → Turn on Hide like count |
| Hide Likes After Posting | Tap three dots → Hide like count |
| Hide Likes on Others’ Posts | Settings → Privacy → Like and share counts → Toggle on |
| View Hidden Likes | Tap “Others” under the post |
| Main Benefit | Mental peace, genuine creativity, and control |
FAQs (SEO Boost Section)
Q1: Can I hide likes on old Instagram posts?
Yes, you can hide like counts on any post, old or new, by tapping the three dots on the post and selecting “Hide like count.”
Q2: Will hiding likes affect my engagement or reach?
No, hiding likes doesn’t affect your post’s visibility or performance. The algorithm still works based on real engagement (likes, comments, saves, shares).
Q3: Can others still like my post if I hide the like count?
Yes. People can still like your post — they just won’t see how many others did.
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