How To Remove TikTok Profile Picture

Profile photo ofCarolyn Howell, author

Carolyn Howell

Last Updated: May 21, 2024

TikTok 101
Want More Real TikTok Followers?

Whether it’s the inconspicuous thumbnail on your videos or the bigger image on top of your profile, your image can help draw more profile visitors and video views. Next to selecting the right photo for your profile, knowing how to remove TikTok profile picture is also important when you need a new look. Are you planning on a profile makeover? Do you think changing your profile image can help optimize your page to attract more of your target audience? Keep reading to learn more!

An image shows a person taking a selfie using their phone.

What Your Photo Says About You

Users often agonize over the image for their social media profile pic. We all want to look our best. Some use their profile photo as an opportunity to send a strong message, communicate their beliefs, or proudly declare their truth. For brands, their profile page is a marketing opportunity, and their profile pic is an invaluable promotional tool. 

On TikTok, each user’s profile photo is visible to everyone, regardless of an account’s privacy settings. The image you select influences how others perceive you at first glance. Will they want to get to know you more, or will they immediately lose interest? Will they recognize your authenticity or feel kinship towards you? Will your photo compel others to explore your page further, watch your videos, or visit your website?

Your TikTok profile image appears at the front and center of your page for a reason. It’s how you introduce yourself to the world. It’s how you tell them who you are and what they can expect from you.

Now and then, it’s also important to refresh your profile by changing your featured image. A new photo can revive interest among old and new audiences. It may be necessary to stay relevant and up-to-date with social, cultural, or industry trends. It can be a way to communicate a significant change in your life. Or you may just want to try something new. What does your current profile picture say about you?

A woman holds a camera in front of her face.

What are the Steps for How To Remove Profile Picture on TikTok?

You can replace your current profile picture with a video or an avatar. If you’re keen to know how to remove pfp on TikTok to change it to either of the aforementioned options, just follow these basic steps!

  1. Go to your Profile. 
  2. Tap Edit profile below your profile photo.
  3. Tap Change video to upload a profile video from your device. 
  4. Alternatively, you can tap Create Avatar to use an avatar as your new profile photo.

If you need help creating an avatar, here’s how to do it:

  1. After tapping Create avatar, tap Create again to continue. 
  2. Select 3-10 photos. TikTok will use these photos as a template for your avatar. 
  3. After selecting your photos, tap Create. 
  4. Pick at least two or up to five avatar styles. 
  5. Tap Continue with X styles. 
  6. TikTok will create 30 avatars for you to choose from. The process typically takes about five minutes; it may take longer if you select more photos in step 2. 

An empty picture frame sits on a table.

Can You Use a Blank Photo as Your Profile Pic?

If you want to know how to remove your TikTok profile pic and replace it with a blank photo, there’s a way to do it. However, you won’t be able to simply remove your current photo without replacing it. Here are your options:

  1. Take a photo of any blank surface, such as a wall or table. Then, repeat the steps above, but select Change photo after tapping Edit profile. Use the image of the blank surface as your new profile pic. 
  2. Download an anonymous default profile picture, i.e., a placeholder image that only shows the outline of a person. This is what you’ll use to change your current photo. 
  3. Take a photo of any object you like, such as a flower, the sky, a musical instrument, etc. Use this as your new pfp.

A person hides behind an empty picture frame.

Introduce Your Brand With the Perfect Profile Pic

For creators and brands, selecting the perfect profile image is a crucial decision. Your profile pic represents more than your likeness and character or brand identity. Your TikTok photo is how you introduce yourself to everybody else.

The image you choose determines the first or major impression you make on others. If you’re a creator, does your profile image say “fun-loving,” “trustworthy expert,” or “adventurous?” If you’re a brand, does your photo effectively capture and communicate the value you offer? Does it clearly represent your niche/industry, passion, or purpose?

People will also often try to find an inherent, logical connection between your profile image and videos. So, your image must authentically represent your voice and message. How you present yourself to the world via your TikTok pic influences how the world receives you and responds to what you put out there. When your videos appear on For You feeds, make sure your profile image will make viewers want to see what else you have to offer.

Knowing how to remove a TikTok profile picture will come in handy when you want to give your profile a new look. When you’re confident about meeting new audiences for your content, give your account better targeting precision with a High Social plan. Take advantage of High Social’s advanced, proprietary, audience-targeting AI tool. It’s the most effective backup to TikTok’s own recommendation algorithm that you’ll find online. Deliver your videos to more viewers who will likely become lifelong fans. Start growing your TikTok today!

TikTok 101