Are Hashtags Still a Thing on Social Media in 2025?
Discover where hashtags are most effective, where they lose relevance, and how to integrate them into your content strategy.
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What Is a Hashtag?
A hashtag is a word or phrase preceded by the # symbol.
Hashtags simplify content discovery on social media and have become a powerful promotional tool.
For instance, Instagram posts with at least one hashtag get 12.6% more engagement compared to posts without them.
In 2024, the hashtag #TravelTuesday inspired thousands to share their travel adventures, boosting the popularity of travel content and increasing bookings.
However, how hashtags work changes every year.
If you create content—blogs, illustrations, designs, or educational videos—it's important to understand how hashtags work in 2025. Let’s explore how to get the most out of them.
The Evolution of Hashtags
In 2007, hashtags first appeared on Twitter as a way to organize conversations. They quickly became a tool for joining global discussions, tracking trends, and amplifying content reach.
Following their success on Twitter, hashtags spread to Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, adapting to each platform’s unique needs:
- Instagram: For discovering new content and improving visibility.
- Facebook: For grouping discussions and events.
- LinkedIn: For professional networking and visibility.
Content creators actively use hashtags to attract audiences, increase reach, and spark viral trends.
How Hashtags Work in 2025
Instagram: From Quantity to Quality
Hashtags on Instagram remain important, but the focus has shifted to relevance.
- Targeted hashtags work better than generic ones. For example, #WatercolorArtists attracts more attention than #Art.
- Instagram’s algorithm promotes posts with hashtags that match users’ recent interests, such as #EcoFriendlyArt.
- Where Do Hashtags Go on Instagram? Add them to captions or comments to improve readability and avoid visual clutter.
A Case of a Successful Branded Hashtag
I assisted in developing social media for the artist Anna Lomakina.
She had a YouTube channel with 300,000 subscribers, but her Instagram was growing slowly.
We came up with the hashtag #ломакина_глянь.
At the end of her videos, Anya would give viewers a drawing challenge.
They would post their work on Instagram using this hashtag to be featured in her next video, where she showcased the best results.
Result: Over 150,000 works were published under this hashtag, and Anya's account grew from 10,000 to 100,000 followers in a short period.
TikTok: Trends and Communities
On TikTok, hashtags help users discover content and form communities.
- Communities: For example, #BookTok united book lovers and influenced bestseller lists.
- Viral Tags: Hashtags like #DanceChallenge generate high engagement.
- What Hashtags to Use on TikTok: Mix trending and niche hashtags, such as #SmallCreators, to broaden your reach.
X (formerly Twitter): Real-Time Discussions
Hashtags on X are key to joining live events and trending conversations.
- Use them to search topics and increase tweet visibility.
- Add hashtags strategically to stay at the center of relevant discussions.
LinkedIn: Building Professional Reputation
LinkedIn relies on precise hashtag use for professional networking.
- Industry-Specific Tags: Hashtags like #DigitalMarketing help connect with colleagues.
- Professional Trends: Showcase your expertise with relevant hashtags but avoid overloading posts.
Hashtags and SEO: How They’re Connected
Hashtags on social media function like keywords in SEO. They simplify searches and help users find your content.
- Aligning hashtags with your SEO strategy increases visibility.
- Choose hashtags relevant to popular topics and audience interests.
- Branded hashtags create a cohesive and recognizable image.
Reach on Platforms and Beyond
Hashtags are highly effective within apps but have limited impact on external search engines like Google.
- Within Platforms: Help users find your content faster.
- Beyond Platforms: Use broader SEO strategies to improve your Google ranking.
Free Tools to Find the Best Hashtags
Effective hashtag selection can be challenging, but these tools can help:
- Ahrefs Free AI Instagram Hashtag Generator: Generates hashtags optimized for your content.
- KeywordTool.io: Helps find hashtags for platforms like Instagram and Twitter.
- AnswerThePublic: Suggests unique hashtags based on popular user searches.
Conclusion: Are Hashtags Still Relevant?
Hashtags remain a crucial tool for promotion when used thoughtfully.
- Consider the unique dynamics of each platform.
- Combine trending and evergreen hashtags.
- Use analytical tools to refine your strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hashtags still relevant on social media in 2025?
Yes, hashtags are still a valuable tool for content discovery and promotion. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok rely heavily on targeted hashtags, while others like Facebook see diminishing effectiveness. Tailoring your strategy to the platform is key.
What are the best tools to generate hashtags?
Tools like Ahrefs' Free AI Instagram Hashtag Generator and KeywordTool.io can help you find relevant hashtags. Additionally, AnswerThePublic offers audience-driven suggestions based on popular searches.
What hashtags are trending on TikTok right now?
Trending TikTok hashtags frequently change, but a mix of viral tags such as #DanceChallenge and niche tags like #SmallCreators can maximize engagement. Check TikTok’s Explore page regularly for updates.
How many hashtags should I use on Instagram?
For Instagram, quality is more important than quantity. Using 5–10 highly relevant hashtags in captions or comments can boost visibility without overwhelming your content.
Can I use spaces or punctuation in hashtags?
No, hashtags cannot contain spaces or most punctuation marks. Use letters, numbers, or underscores only, for example, #BestTravelMoments.
What’s the difference between trending and niche hashtags?
Trending hashtags target a broader audience and can quickly increase visibility, while niche hashtags connect with specific communities. A mix of both provides the best results.
How can I create unique wedding hashtags?
Combine personal elements like names, dates, and themes to craft creative hashtags, such as #SmithWedding2025. Wedding hashtag generators are also a great resource for unique ideas.
Can hashtags improve SEO for my content?
On social media, hashtags function similarly to keywords by enhancing discoverability. However, their impact on external search engines like Google is limited, so focus primarily on in-platform optimization.
What are the best hashtags for Instagram in 2025?
The most effective hashtags are targeted and specific, like #EcoFriendlyArt for sustainable content or #FoodieLife for culinary topics. Prioritize relevance to your audience and content.
How do I avoid getting shadowbanned for hashtags?
Avoid banned or irrelevant hashtags, as these can harm your visibility. Research your hashtags carefully and ensure they align with your content to maintain a healthy reach.
On Patreon, I share my experiments, insights, and behind-the-scenes progress as I rebuild and grow. I explore fresh ideas across different media and languages, dive into AI tools, and pass along every lesson I learn.
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