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Why Won't My PNG Be Transparent in Figma?

Noah Aug 16, 2026 2026-08-16 04:58:21

Are you puzzling over why your PNG image isn't displaying transparency in Figma? You're not alone. PNGs are often the go-to format for images that require transparency, but occasionally, Figma might not play nice. Let's troubleshoot this issue and ensure your PNG maintains its transparency.

Exporting a transparent PNG from Figma
Exporting a transparent PNG from Figma

First, let's establish that your PNG image should indeed be transparent. Check the image in a photo editing software like GIMP or Photoshop. If it has transparency, then the issue might be Figma-specific.

Figma
Figma

Figma's transparency settings

Figma has its own transparency settings that might conflict with your image. Let's explore these.

an image of a computer screen with the text fractal tutor on it
an image of a computer screen with the text fractal tutor on it

First, ensure your image is imported at 100% scale. Sometimes, scaling down can affect transparency. To check, right-click on your image and select "Scale" to ensure it's at 100%.

Adjusting the opacity

an iphone screen with the text, fluffy elements in figma and swipe to learn faster
an iphone screen with the text, fluffy elements in figma and swipe to learn faster

Figma might interpreting the transparency of your PNG differently. Try adjusting the opacity of your image. Right-click on your image, select "Style", and then adjust the "Opacity" slider. If your image was slightly translucent, adjusting the opacity might make it fully transparent.

However, be cautious with this method. Adjusting opacity changes the entire image, not just the transparent areas. So, use this as a last resort.

Using the 'Mask' feature

Эффект стекла в Figma
Эффект стекла в Figma

Figma's 'Mask' feature can help maintain transparency. When you apply a mask, anything inside the mask will use the transparency of the mask object. This can help if Figma is interpreting your PNG's transparency differently. Select your image, then choose "Mask" from the top menu to create a new mask.

Remember, using masks can be complex, especially with intricate designs. It's best to use this when you're working with shapes and not complex, pre-made images.

Figma's file settings and plugins

liquid glass how to create an app for iphone or ipad with the help of apple branding
liquid glass how to create an app for iphone or ipad with the help of apple branding

Sometimes, issues can stem from Figma's file settings or even plugins you've installed.

Check your file settings. Go to "File" > "Document Settings"...

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Save this for later! Create this refraction effect in Figma 🥷 Let me know your thoughts #uiux #uiux
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Figmaでもこのカタチ簡単に作れちゃいます!
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Remove Background in Figma

Checking 'Auto Layout'

A lesser-known issue might be Figma's "Auto Layout" feature. If 'Auto Layout' is enabled, it might affect your image's transparency. Turn off 'Auto Layout' and check if your image displays correctly.

To check this, click on your image, then look in the right-hand panel for the "Constraints settings". If you see 'Auto Layout' enabled, toggle it off.

Disabling problematic plugins

Plugins can sometimes interfere with Figma's default behavior. If you've installed any plugins recently, try disabling them temporarily to see if they're causing the issue.

Go to "Plugins" > "Manage Plugins..." and toggle off any recently installed or updated plugins.

After troubleshooting these aspects, your PNG should display transparency correctly in Figma. If not, consider reaching out to Figma's support for further assistance. Happy designing!