If you want to contact a friend, creator, or follower, you may be wondering: how do you message someone on TikTok? TikTok has a built-in Direct Message (DM) feature that allows users to send private messages, videos, emojis, and more.
However, messaging on TikTok depends on privacy settings, age restrictions, and whether the other person allows messages. In this guide, you’ll learn how to send a message, why you might not be able to message someone, and how to manage your own message settings.
Can You Message Someone on TikTok?
Yes. TikTok allows eligible users to send direct messages through the app.
You can usually message:
- Mutual followers (you follow each other)
- Friends
- People who have enabled messages from everyone (if available in your region)
- Users who have previously messaged you
TikTok messaging is only available to users who meet the platform’s age requirements.
How to Message Someone on TikTok
Method 1: From Their Profile
- Open the TikTok app.
- Search for the person’s profile.
- Open their profile page.
- Tap the Message button (if it appears).
- Type your message.
- Tap Send.
If the Message button is visible, you can send them a direct message immediately.
Method 2: From the Inbox
- Tap Inbox at the bottom of the screen.
- Tap the paper airplane or chat icon in the top-right corner.
- Select the person you want to message.
- Type your message.
- Tap Send.
This method is useful for messaging people you’ve already talked to before.
What Can You Send in TikTok Messages?
You can send:
- Text messages
- TikTok videos
- Emojis
- Stickers
- GIFs (in supported regions)
- Profile links
- Video links
TikTok may limit certain types of links or content for safety reasons.
Why Can’t I Message Someone?
There are several common reasons.
They don’t follow you back
Many users only allow messages from mutual followers.
Their privacy settings are restricted
They may have set Who can send you direct messages to:
- No one
- Friends
- Suggested friends
You’re under 16
TikTok restricts direct messaging for users under 16 years old.
You’ve been blocked
If someone blocks you, you won’t be able to message them or interact with their profile normally.
The Message button is missing
If the Message button doesn’t appear on their profile, they likely don’t allow messages from you.
How to Change Your Message Settings
If you want to control who can message you:
- Go to Profile.
- Tap the Menu (☰) in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings and privacy.
- Tap Privacy.
- Choose Direct messages.
- Select who can send you messages.
Available options may include:
- No one
- Friends
- Suggested friends
- Everyone (in some regions)
How to Send a TikTok Video in a Message
- Open the video you want to share.
- Tap the Share arrow.
- Select the person from your friends list, or tap More.
- Tap Send.
The video will appear directly in your conversation.
Can You Message Someone Without Following Them?
Sometimes, but it depends on their settings.
If they allow messages from Everyone or Suggested friends, you may be able to send a message even if you don’t follow each other.
If they only allow messages from Friends, you’ll need to follow each other first.
Tips for Messaging on TikTok
Be respectful
Send polite and relevant messages, especially when contacting creators.
Avoid spam
Sending the same message repeatedly can lead to restrictions on your account.
Check message requests
If someone who isn’t your friend messages you, the message may appear in Message Requests.
Keep personal information private
Avoid sharing sensitive information with people you don’t know.
ALSO READ: How to make your favorites public on TikTok
